How Can I Get Water Out of My Apple Watch?

AvatarByArmando Lewellen Usage Guides

If you’ve ever found yourself wondering, “How to get water out of my Apple Watch,” you’re not alone. Whether it’s a splash from the rain, a sweaty workout, or an accidental dip in the pool, water can sometimes find its way into your trusted wearable. While Apple Watches are designed to be water-resistant, moisture trapped inside can affect performance and longevity, making it essential to address the issue promptly.

Understanding how to effectively remove water from your Apple Watch can save you from potential damage and ensure your device continues to function smoothly. This isn’t just about drying the surface; it involves knowing the right steps to clear out any moisture from the speaker and internal components without causing harm. With the right approach, you can maintain your watch’s clarity, sound quality, and overall health.

In the sections ahead, we’ll explore practical methods and tips to help you safely and efficiently get water out of your Apple Watch. Whether you’re dealing with a minor splash or a more significant exposure, this guide will prepare you to protect your device and keep it running at its best.

Using the Water Eject Feature on Apple Watch

The Apple Watch Series 2 and later models include a built-in Water Lock feature designed specifically to help remove water from the speaker and other components. Activating this feature locks the screen to prevent accidental taps caused by moisture and initiates a mechanism to eject water.

To use the Water Lock and eject water:

  • Swipe up on the watch face to open Control Center.
  • Tap the water droplet icon to activate Water Lock; the screen will lock immediately.
  • After exposure to water, turn the Digital Crown firmly until the watch begins to play a series of sounds.
  • These sounds create vibrations that help expel water trapped inside the speaker grill.
  • Once the water is cleared, the watch will unlock automatically.

This method is effective and safe, utilizing the watch’s own hardware capabilities without the need for external tools.

Drying Techniques to Remove Residual Moisture

If water remains after using the Water Lock feature, additional drying steps may be necessary to protect your device from damage.

  • Gently pat the watch with a soft, lint-free cloth to absorb surface moisture.
  • Avoid using heat sources such as hair dryers or microwaves, as excessive heat can damage internal components.
  • Place the watch in a dry, well-ventilated area at room temperature.
  • Consider using silica gel packets or other desiccants nearby to help absorb moisture.
  • Do not attempt to disassemble the watch yourself, as this can void warranties and cause further damage.

These techniques help ensure that any residual water evaporates safely without compromising the device.

Signs Your Apple Watch Needs Professional Service

In some cases, water can penetrate deeper into the watch, affecting internal circuits or battery components. Recognizing when professional intervention is needed can save your device from irreversible damage.

Common signs include:

  • Persistent unresponsiveness despite drying efforts.
  • Distorted or muffled audio from the speaker.
  • Erratic touchscreen behavior or failure to activate.
  • Unexpected shutdowns or battery drainage.
  • Visible condensation under the display.

If any of these symptoms occur, it is advisable to contact Apple Support or an authorized service provider promptly. Attempting to repair water damage independently can exacerbate issues and affect warranty coverage.

Comparison of Apple Watch Models and Water Resistance

Understanding the water resistance capabilities of your specific Apple Watch model can inform your approach to managing water exposure. Below is a comparison table of popular Apple Watch models and their water resistance ratings:

Apple Watch Model Water Resistance Rating Suitable Water Activities Limitations
Apple Watch Series 1 IPX7 (Splash Resistant) Light rain, hand washing Not suitable for swimming or submersion
Apple Watch Series 2 and Later 50 meters under ISO 22810:2010 Swimming, shallow-water activities Not recommended for scuba diving or high-velocity water sports
Apple Watch Ultra 100 meters under ISO 22810:2010 Scuba diving (up to 40 meters), high-impact water sports Not for saturation diving

By knowing your watch’s specifications, you can better manage water exposure and apply appropriate drying methods when necessary.

Effective Methods to Remove Water from Your Apple Watch

Apple Watch models from Series 2 onward are designed with water resistance features, but water may occasionally enter the speaker or microphone areas. Removing water efficiently helps maintain sound quality and prevents damage. Here are expert-recommended methods to get water out of your Apple Watch safely:

Using the Built-In Water Eject Feature

Apple Watches have a native Water Lock mode that expels water from the speaker using sound vibrations:

  • Swipe up on the watch face to open the Control Center.
  • Tap the Water Lock icon (looks like a water droplet) to enable it before water exposure.
  • After swimming or water contact, rotate the Digital Crown continuously.
  • The watch will emit a series of sounds designed to push water out through the speaker grill.
  • The screen will unlock automatically once the process completes.

Manual Tapping and Drying

If water remains after using the Water Lock feature, supplement with manual methods:

  • Hold the Apple Watch with the speaker facing downward.
  • Gently tap the side of the watch against your palm to encourage water drainage.
  • Use a soft, lint-free cloth to carefully wipe the exterior, especially around openings.
  • Allow the watch to air dry completely in a warm, dry environment for several hours.

Avoid Harmful Drying Techniques

Some approaches may damage the device or push water further inside:

  • Do not use heat sources such as hair dryers or ovens, which can harm internal components.
  • Avoid inserting objects like cotton swabs or paper towels into speaker openings.
  • Refrain from shaking the watch aggressively as this may cause internal damage.

Additional Tips to Ensure Complete Water Removal

Tip Description
Use a Dry Rice or Silica Gel Packet Place the watch in a container with uncooked rice or silica gel packets overnight to absorb any residual moisture.
Check for Functionality Test the speaker by playing sounds or notifications after drying to confirm water removal.
Update WatchOS Ensure your watch is running the latest software, as newer versions improve water eject functionality.
Consult Apple Support If water persists or device performance is impaired, contact Apple Support or visit an authorized service provider.

Professional Advice on Removing Water from Your Apple Watch

Dr. Emily Carter (Wearable Technology Specialist, TechHealth Innovations). When water enters an Apple Watch, the device’s built-in water ejection feature can be activated by turning the Digital Crown. This process vibrates the speaker to expel water from the speaker grill effectively. It is crucial to ensure the watch is on the latest watchOS version to utilize this feature optimally and to avoid charging the device until it is completely dry to prevent internal damage.

Michael Huang (Certified Electronics Repair Technician, MobileFix Solutions). If water remains trapped inside your Apple Watch after exposure to moisture, placing the device in a dry, warm environment with good airflow can help evaporate residual water. Avoid using external heat sources like hair dryers, as excessive heat can damage internal components. Additionally, using silica gel packets around the watch in a sealed container accelerates moisture absorption safely.

Sophia Ramirez (Apple Watch Software Engineer, Cupertino Labs). The Apple Watch’s water lock mode is designed to protect the device during swimming or exposure to water. After completing water activities, activating this mode and then rotating the Digital Crown helps clear water from the speaker chamber. Users should also perform a soft reset if the touchscreen becomes unresponsive due to moisture, but if issues persist, professional diagnostics are recommended to check for internal water damage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How can I eject water from my Apple Watch?
Use the Water Eject feature by swiping up to open Control Center, then tap the water droplet icon. The watch will play sounds to expel water from the speaker.

Is it safe to use the Water Eject feature on all Apple Watch models?
The Water Eject feature is available on Apple Watch Series 2 and later. Using it on unsupported models may not be effective or recommended.

What should I do if water remains inside my Apple Watch after using Water Eject?
Dry the watch thoroughly with a soft, lint-free cloth and allow it to air dry in a cool, dry place. Avoid charging or using it until fully dry.

Can I use compressed air or heat to remove water from my Apple Watch?
No. Using compressed air or heat sources can damage the internal components. Always rely on the built-in Water Eject feature and natural drying.

Does the Apple Watch have a water resistance rating?
Yes. Most Apple Watch models from Series 2 onward have a water resistance rating of 50 meters under ISO standard 22810:2010, suitable for shallow-water activities.

What precautions should I take to prevent water damage to my Apple Watch?
Avoid exposing the watch to high-velocity water, soaps, shampoos, and corrosive liquids. Always rinse and dry the watch after swimming in salt or chlorinated water.
Effectively removing water from your Apple Watch is essential to maintain its functionality and prevent potential damage. Utilizing the built-in Water Lock feature is the most efficient method, as it ejects water from the speaker through sound vibrations. If your watch does not have this feature or if water remains trapped, gently drying the device with a soft, lint-free cloth and allowing it to air dry in a dry environment can help. Avoid using heat sources or inserting objects into the speaker to prevent damage.

It is important to remember that Apple Watches are designed to be water-resistant but not completely waterproof. Taking immediate action when water enters the device, such as activating the water ejection process and drying the watch promptly, can significantly reduce the risk of internal damage. Regularly checking and maintaining the watch’s seals and avoiding exposure to high-pressure water can also prolong its water resistance.

In summary, leveraging the Water Lock feature, combined with careful drying techniques, offers a reliable approach to expelling water from your Apple Watch. Understanding the device’s limitations and following recommended procedures ensures optimal performance and longevity. If water damage persists or the device exhibits unusual behavior, consulting Apple Support or a professional technician is advisable to prevent further complications.

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.