Skip to main content

Digital Trends may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site. Why trust us?

Are AirTags waterproof? Here’s what to do if they get wet

Apple AirTag lifestyle image.
Apple AirTag Apple

Disc-shaped Apple AirTags are small tracking devices with an impressive range that are designed to help you keep tabs on items like keys, wallets, and bags.

There’s no doubt how useful an AirTag can be. But there’s an important question you may be wondering about before you buy one: Are AirTags waterproof? Let’s dive into this together.

Recommended Videos

Are AirTags waterproof?

An AirTag attached on a keyring
Digital Trends

The AirTags have an IP67 rating, which means they are water-resistant, but not waterproof. This rating indicates that the tracking devices are fully protected against dust and provide protection when immersed in water.

Specifically, an IP67-rated device can endure being submerged in water for up to 30 minutes at a depth of up to 1 meter (3.3 feet). AirTags are certainly protected against water, but calling them fully “waterproof” is a stretch.

Can AirTags get wet?

Nomad Apple TV Siri Remote Case with an AirTag installed.
Phil Nickinson / Digital Trends

As mentioned above, AirTags are not waterproof, so you should avoid intentionally submerging or exposing them to water for extended periods. However, they can handle short exposure to water, such as during rain or a splash from a sink.

You shouldn’t attach them to something you plan to submerge in water. Also, keep in mind that the water resistance of an AirTag may decrease over time due to wear and tear. Accidents happen, and if your AirTag accidentally gets wet, it should be fine. Just don’t push your luck and try to avoid getting it wet whenever you can.

How to dry a wet AirTag

AirTag.
Digital Trends

If your AirTags do get wet, you can dry them using a few methods. First, remove the surface moisture using a lint-free cloth. This will remove any water droplets that might be on the tracker’s surface.

You should also open the AirTags to see if any water got inside. After removing the cover, also remove the battery. Once open, place the AirTag body, battery cover, and battery on a flat surface and let them air dry. Don’t use a hairdryer or any other heat source, however. Instead, let the air dry the AirTag parts. After a few hours, reassemble the AirTag and test it using the Find My app.

If the AirTag doesn’t work, it probably has internal damage and will need to be replaced. In this situation, it’s probably wise to take the AirTag apart again and see if more drying helps. Hopefully, it will be fine.

Apple AirTags are some of the best Bluetooth trackers on the market, but they are not the only option. Other options, including ones that work with Android-based devices, are also available.

Topics
Bryan M. Wolfe
Bryan M. Wolfe has over a decade of experience as a technology writer. He writes about mobile.
When will my iPad get iPadOS 18? Here’s everything we know
home Screen of an iPad Pro that boots iPadOS 18.

At the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June, Apple revealed significant software updates for its flagship products: the iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, Apple Vision Pro, Apple TV, and Mac. Among these updates is iPadOS 18 for Apple's tablet lineup.

After several developer and public beta updates, iPadOS 18 is now accessible to all users.
When will iPadOS 18 be released?
On Monday, September 16, Apple officially released iPadOS 18 to the general public. As with previous iPadOS releases, it is compatible with most iPads, but not all. The new minimum requirement for this release is that your iPad must have an A12 Bionic chip or later installed. Unfortunately, if you have an iPad with an A11 Bionic chip or older, it's incompatible with this update.

Read more
Will my iPad get iPadOS 18? Here’s every supported model
Adding new tools to control center in iPadOS 18

During the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June, Apple introduced the next-generation versions of its most important operating systems. One of these is iPadOS 18 for the iPad. The update will be available to the general public starting today, September 16.

Unfortunately, not every Apple tablet can run this software update. Has your iPad made the list? Let's find out.
Which iPads will support iPadOS 18?
Apple's iPadOS 18 update will support the following iPad models:

Read more
Will my Apple Watch get watchOS 11? Here’s every supported model
The Palette watch face on the Apple Watch Series 9.

It's time to update your Apple Watch, because a new version of watchOS is here. Snappily named watchOS 11, Apple's newest wearable operating system may not have the Apple Intelligence it's pushing for iOS 18 and iPadOS 18, but it does have plenty of fitness-tracking enhancements, new live widgets, and smarter delivery of health stats through the new Vitals app. Before today, you would have had to sign up to a (somewhat) risky beta to try out these new features -- but that's no longer the case. No, now watchOS 11 has hit its full public release, and it is a thing of beauty.

But that doesn't matter if you're not sure if your Apple Watch will be getting the update or not. After all, while every piece of technology is new once, there comes a time when even the shiniest of silicon is sent out to the pastures to enjoy retirement. So, will your Apple Watch be getting watchOS 11 or not? Find out here.
Which Apple Watch models support watchOS 11?

Read more