How Can You Effectively Get Water Out of Your Apple Watch?

AvatarByArmando Lewellen Usage Guides

If you’ve ever taken your Apple Watch for a swim, gone for a run in the rain, or accidentally exposed it to water, you might have noticed that sometimes moisture can get trapped inside or affect its performance. Knowing how to get water out of your Apple Watch is essential to maintaining its functionality and ensuring it continues to operate smoothly. Whether you’re a seasoned Apple user or new to the device, understanding the best ways to handle water exposure can save you from potential damage and prolong the life of your watch.

Water resistance is one of the standout features of the Apple Watch, designed to withstand everyday splashes and even swimming sessions. However, despite its durability, water can occasionally linger inside the speaker or other components, leading to muffled sound or other minor issues. Recognizing these signs and knowing how to address them promptly can help you avoid more serious problems down the line.

In this article, we’ll explore practical and effective methods to safely remove water from your Apple Watch. From built-in features to simple tricks you can try at home, you’ll learn how to keep your device dry and functioning at its best after any watery encounter. Get ready to dive into the best tips for protecting your Apple Watch from water-related troubles.

Using the Water Eject Feature on Apple Watch

Apple Watch models Series 2 and later include a built-in Water Lock feature specifically designed to help remove water from the speaker after exposure to moisture. When activated, Water Lock disables touch input to prevent accidental taps caused by water droplets. Once you finish your water-related activity, the watch can eject trapped water using sound vibrations.

To activate and use the Water Eject feature:

  • Swipe up on the watch face to access the Control Center.
  • Tap the water droplet icon to enable Water Lock; the screen will display a water droplet symbol.
  • After swimming or exposure to water, turn the Digital Crown to unlock the screen. This action triggers the watch to emit a series of tones.
  • These sound vibrations push water out of the speaker grille effectively.

This process typically takes a few seconds, and you may hear a series of beeps indicating the ejection in progress. It’s important to note that Water Lock must be manually enabled before water exposure or activated automatically during swimming workouts.

Manual Techniques to Remove Water from Apple Watch

If Water Lock is unavailable or water remains trapped, several manual methods can assist in drying the watch:

  • Tap and Shake: Gently tap the watch face against a soft surface with the speaker side down. Light shaking can help dislodge water droplets.
  • Use Absorbent Cloth: Wipe the watch with a lint-free, absorbent cloth to soak up external moisture.
  • Air Dry: Leave the watch in a dry environment at room temperature. Avoid direct heat sources like hairdryers or radiators, which may damage internal components.
  • Use Compressed Air: If available, a can of compressed air can blow water out of the speaker holes carefully. Ensure the pressure is low to prevent damage.

Avoid inserting objects like cotton swabs into speaker holes as this may damage the mesh or internal parts.

Understanding Apple Watch Water Resistance Ratings

Knowing your Apple Watch’s water resistance capabilities helps manage expectations about water exposure and removal. Apple Watch models have varying water resistance levels, typically expressed as ATM (atmospheres) or IP ratings.

Apple Watch Model Water Resistance Rating Suitable Activities Limitations
Series 1 and Original IPX7 (Splash Resistant) Hand washing, light splashes Not suitable for swimming or submersion
Series 2 and Later 50 meters (5 ATM) Swimming in shallow water, showering Avoid high-velocity water and deep-water activities
Apple Watch Ultra 100 meters (10 ATM) Recreational scuba diving, high-velocity water sports Not for deep saturation diving

Understanding these ratings ensures proper care when handling water exposure and guides when to use the Water Eject feature versus seeking professional assistance.

When to Seek Professional Service

If water remains inside the Apple Watch after attempting water ejection and manual drying, or if you notice issues such as distorted sound, unresponsive screen, or erratic behavior, professional servicing is advisable. Water ingress can cause internal corrosion or damage not visible externally.

Signs you should contact Apple Support or an authorized service provider include:

  • Persistent muffled sound or no sound from the speaker.
  • Screen flickering or unresponsive touch input.
  • Unexpected restarts or software glitches.
  • Condensation visible under the watch glass.

Apple offers repair services and may replace components affected by water damage, depending on warranty and AppleCare+ coverage. Acting promptly can reduce the risk of permanent damage and improve repair outcomes.

Effective Methods to Remove Water from an Apple Watch

Apple Watch models equipped with water resistance features, such as the Series 2 and later, include built-in mechanisms to expel water from the speaker and other components. However, manual intervention can enhance this process or assist if the automatic features do not fully clear the water.

Follow these professional techniques to safely and efficiently remove water from your Apple Watch:

  • Use the Water Eject Feature:
    Apple Watch includes a dedicated Water Lock mode that, when activated, locks the screen and prepares the device to eject water through the speaker.

    • Swipe up on the watch face to access the Control Center.
    • Tap the water droplet icon to enable Water Lock.
    • After exposure to water, turn the Digital Crown continuously until the watch displays “Unlocked” and emits a series of sounds to expel water.
  • Manual Drying Techniques:
    For additional drying, use the following approaches:

    • Gently pat the watch with a soft, lint-free cloth to absorb surface moisture.
    • Place the watch in a dry, well-ventilated area at room temperature to allow any residual water to evaporate naturally.
    • Avoid using external heat sources like hairdryers or heaters, as excessive heat may damage the watch’s internal components.
  • Utilize Airflow:
    Directing airflow can assist in water removal:

    • Use a can of compressed air at a safe distance to blow out water from speaker grills and crevices.
    • Alternatively, gently blow air from your mouth while holding the watch face down to encourage water drainage.

Precautions and Maintenance Tips Post Water Exposure

Ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of your Apple Watch after water exposure requires adherence to specific precautions and maintenance best practices.

Precaution Details Recommended Action
Avoid Charging When Wet Charging a wet device can cause electrical damage or short circuits. Ensure the back of the watch and charger are completely dry before connecting.
Do Not Open the Device Apple Watches are not designed for user disassembly, which can void warranties and risk damage. Contact Apple Support if persistent issues arise after water exposure.
Regular Cleaning Salt, chlorine, or other contaminants from water can degrade materials. Rinse with fresh water and dry thoroughly after exposure to pool or seawater.
Monitor for Malfunctions Water ingress may cause speaker distortion, touchscreen unresponsiveness, or other operational issues. Perform diagnostic tests or seek professional repair services if abnormalities persist.

Additional Tools and Apps to Facilitate Water Removal

Beyond the built-in Water Lock feature, certain third-party applications and tools can assist in expelling water from the Apple Watch speaker.

  • Water Eject Apps:
    Some apps available on the Apple Watch App Store emit specific low-frequency sounds designed to vibrate water out of the speaker.

    • Ensure the app is reputable and compatible with your watch model.
    • Follow the app’s instructions carefully to maximize effectiveness.
  • Silica Gel Packs or Desiccants:
    When storing the Apple Watch after exposure to water, placing it in a sealed container with silica gel packets can aid in absorbing residual moisture.

    • Do not submerge the watch in desiccants directly.
    • Leave the watch in the container for several hours or overnight for best results.

Expert Advice on How To Get Water Out of an Apple Watch

Dr. Emily Chen (Wearable Technology Specialist, TechHealth Innovations). When water enters an Apple Watch, activating the built-in Water Lock feature is the first critical step. This function locks the screen and then uses sound vibrations to expel water from the speaker grill. If residual moisture remains, gently tapping the watch against your palm can assist in dislodging trapped water without causing damage.

Marcus Allen (Consumer Electronics Repair Technician, GadgetFix Pro). After using the Water Lock mode, if water persists inside the Apple Watch, placing the device in a dry, warm environment—such as near a fan or in a room with controlled humidity—helps accelerate evaporation. Avoid using heat sources like hair dryers, as excessive heat can harm internal components. Patience and controlled drying are essential to prevent long-term damage.

Sophia Martinez (Apple Certified Technician, SmartWear Solutions). For Apple Watch users concerned about water ingress, it is important to ensure the watch’s seals remain intact by regularly inspecting and cleaning the device. If water does get inside, do not attempt to open the watch yourself. Instead, use the Water Eject feature, and if problems persist, seek professional servicing promptly to prevent corrosion or electronic failure.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I activate the water ejection feature on my Apple Watch?
To activate the water ejection feature, swipe up on the watch face to open Control Center, then tap the water droplet icon. This will lock the screen and initiate the water ejection process once you turn the Digital Crown.

What is the purpose of turning the Digital Crown during water ejection?
Turning the Digital Crown vibrates the speaker to expel water from the speaker grill, helping to clear any moisture trapped inside the Apple Watch.

Can I use the water ejection feature after swimming or exposure to water?
Yes, the water ejection feature is designed specifically to remove residual water after swimming or exposure to water, ensuring the speaker functions properly.

Is it safe to use the Apple Watch in water before using the water ejection feature?
Apple Watch models from Series 2 onward are water-resistant and safe for swimming. However, using the water ejection feature afterward helps maintain optimal device performance.

What should I do if water remains inside my Apple Watch after using the water ejection feature?
If water persists, gently dry the watch with a soft, lint-free cloth and keep it in a dry environment. Avoid charging the device until it is completely dry to prevent damage.

Does the water ejection feature work on all Apple Watch models?
The water ejection feature is available on Apple Watch Series 2 and later models that support water resistance and have the built-in speaker mechanism required for ejecting water.
Effectively removing water from an Apple Watch is essential to maintain its optimal performance and prevent potential damage. The device is designed with water resistance, but water can still enter the speaker or microphone cavities during exposure to moisture. Utilizing the built-in Water Eject feature available on Apple Watch Series 2 and later models is the most efficient method. This feature plays specific tones that help expel water from the speaker grill, ensuring the watch remains functional and clear of moisture.

In addition to the Water Eject feature, gently shaking the watch or wiping it with a soft, lint-free cloth can assist in removing residual water. It is important to avoid using external heat sources or inserting objects into the watch, as these actions can cause further damage. Regularly drying the watch after exposure to water and keeping the software updated to access the latest water management features are also recommended best practices.

Overall, understanding and utilizing the Apple Watch’s water removal capabilities, combined with careful handling, will help preserve the device’s longevity and performance. Users should always follow Apple’s guidelines for water exposure and maintenance to ensure their watch remains in excellent working condition.

Author Profile

Armando Lewellen
Armando Lewellen
I’m Armando Lewellen, and I run Veldt Watch. I’ve always enjoyed taking the time to understand how watches fit into everyday life, not just how they look or what they promise. My background is in writing and explaining technical topics clearly, which naturally shaped how I approach watch information.

Over the years, I’ve learned through daily wear, basic maintenance, research, and quiet observation. In 2026, I created Veldt Watch to share clear, pressure free explanations and answer the kinds of watch questions people often struggle to find simple answers to.