How to Fix Water-Damaged Headphones and Earbuds? Quick and Easy Guide

If you've ever had the unfortunate experience of water-damaged headphones or earbuds, you know how frustrating it can be. In most cases, the device is completely unusable after getting wet. 

However, there are a few simple ways to try and fix them before throwing them away. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to take to repair your headphones or earbuds yourself. We'll also provide a few tips on how to prevent your headphones from being damaged in the future.

What Happens if Headphones Get Wet?

Have you ever accidentally dropped your headphones in water? Or maybe you were caught in the rain with them on. Either way, you probably know that it's not a good idea to let headphones get wet. But what exactly happens if they do get wet?

Water and electricity don't mix, so one of the first things that can happen is that your headphones can short-circuit. This can damage the delicate electronic components inside the headphones and render them unusable. 

Even if the electronics survive, water can cause corrosion which over time will degrade the quality of the sound. In addition, water can cause the headphones to become uncomfortable to wear as it drips down your neck or gets tangled in your hair. 

So, while it's not advisable to let your headphones get wet if it does happen, dry them off as soon as possible and hope for the best.

4 Things You Should (Not) Do When earbuds Dropped in Water

Following are the four things that you should not do when earbuds drop in water: 

1: Do Not Intend to Operate the Earphones

It is not advisable to operate the earphones when the earbuds drop in water. The user may experience hearing problems, and the sound quality will be greatly reduced. It is better to wait for the earbuds to dry before using them again.

If the user must use them immediately, it is advisable to remove the batteries and allow them to dry separately. Operating the earphones when they are wet will also damage the earbuds and may cause them to malfunction. Therefore, it is best to avoid using them until they are completely dry.

2: Do Not Use a Hair Dryer

If your earbuds fall in the water, don't use a hair dryer to try and speed up the drying process. The heat from the hair dryer can damage the delicate components of the earbuds, and even if they still work after being dried off, they likely won't sound as good as they did before. 

Instead, simply remove the earbuds from the water and allow them to air dry. If you're in a hurry, you can also dab them lightly with a towel to remove any excess water. Either way, give them plenty of time to dry completely before using them again. Doing so will help to ensure that your earbuds last for many years to come.

3: Do Not Use Oven or Microwave

Do not attempt to dry the earbuds by putting them in the oven or microwave, as this could cause them to catch fire or explode. If all else fails, contact the manufacturer for advice on how to proceed.

4: Do Not Waste Time

When your earbuds drop in water, it is important to act quickly in order to minimize the damage. The first step is to turn off the device that they are connected to. This will prevent any further damage from occurring.

Once the device is turned off, carefully remove the earbuds from the water. If possible, use a clean, dry cloth to blot them dry. Once they are as dry as possible, place them in a bowl of uncooked rice. The rice will help to absorb any remaining moisture. Leave the earbuds in the rice for at least 24 hours before using them again. 

By taking these steps, you can minimize the damage and prolong the life of your earbuds.

7 Steps How to Fix Water-Damaged Earphones

Below are the seven steps of how to fix water-damaged earphones: 

Step 1 – Remove The Foam/Rubber/Silicone Tip Sleeves

Foam/rubber/silicone tip sleeves are good for comfort while wearing earphones, but they can also be a source of trapped moisture that leads to water damage. If your earphones have become wet, the first step in repairing them is to remove any foam/rubber/silicone tip sleeves. This will allow the earphones to dry out completely and hopefully prevent any further damage. 

Step 2 – Disassemble Your Earbud Parts

Start by removing the ear tips and any other removable parts. Once you have access to the internals, gently remove the batteries and any other electronic components. Be careful not to damage these components, as they are essential for the earbuds to function properly. With the earbuds disassembled, you can now begin the process of cleaning and drying them out. 

Step 3 – Use Distilled Water. How to Fix Water-Damaged Headphones and Earbuds? (Also Called de-ionized)

You will need to use distilled water to rinse away any salt or other contaminants that could corrode the sensitive electronic components. Be sure to use a soft, lint-free cloth to avoid scratching the surface of the headphones. Allow the headphones to air dry completely before attempting to use them again. 

Step 4 – Shake The Earphones

Simply shake the earphones vigorously for a few minutes. This will help to remove any excess water from the earbuds and speaker grilles. In addition, it will also help to dislodge any dirt or debris that may have become trapped inside the earphones. 

Step 5 – Blow Up Your Earbuds With Air

The next step is to blow up the earbuds with air. This will help to remove any water that's trapped inside the earphones. To do this, simply hold the earbuds upside down and blow into the openings. You may need to repeat this several times to get all of the water out. Once you're finished, allow the earphones to dry completely before using them again.

Step 6 – Use A Soft Towel

Use a soft towel to blot away any excess moisture. Next, use a cotton swab to gently remove any water from the earbuds and the area where the wires connect to the earbuds.

Step 7 – Use A Rice Bag (It is A Must)

Place the earphones in the rice bag and seal it tightly. Then, leave the earphones in the rice bag for 24 hours to allow the rice to absorb any moisture. After 24 hours, remove the earphones from the rice bag and check that they are working properly.

FAQ:

Following are the most asked questions regarding how to fix water-damaged headphones and earbuds: 

1: How to Prevent my Earbuds from Being Wet?

There are a few things you can do to prevent your earbuds from getting wet. First, make sure that the area around your earbuds is clear of any water sources. If you're using them near a pool, for example, be sure to keep them out of the splash zone. Second, consider investing in a pair of waterproof earbuds. 

These are designed to withstand exposure to water and can be a great option if you're worried about your earbuds getting wet. Finally, always make sure to dry your earbuds off after use and store them in a dry place when not in use. 

By taking these simple precautions, you can help ensure that your earbuds stay dry and in good working condition.

2: What to Do If I Get My Earphones Wet?

It is not uncommon for people to accidentally get their earphones wet. Whether it is from sweat, rain, or a spilled drink, moisture can easily damage electronic devices. If you find yourself in this situation, there are a few things you can do to minimize the damage. First, remove the earphones from your ears and power off the device if possible. 

Then, gently wipe down the earphones with a dry cloth to remove any excess moisture. Once they are dry, you can place them in a container of rice or silica gel packets to absorb any remaining moisture. If your earphones still do not work after taking these steps, you may need to replace them. With a little care and attention, you can keep your earphones working properly even if they get wet.

3: Why Should I Use a Rice Bag to Dry Out My Earbuds?

Rice is a natural absorbent, so it can quickly soak up any moisture that's on your earbuds. Just put your earbuds in a bag of rice and let them sit for a few hours. Then, remove them and allow them to air-dry before using them again. By taking this simple step, you can help ensure that your earbuds stay clean and dry – and that your ears stay healthy.

Conclusion

Headphones and earbuds are a common way to listen to music, but when they get wet, they can become damaged. In this quick and easy guide, we have shown you how to fix water-damaged headphones and earbuds.

By following these simple steps, you can save your audio equipment and have it back up and running in no time. Have you ever had to repair water-damaged headphones or earbuds? What was the process like for you? Let us know in the comments below.