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

AvatarByArmando Lewellen Usage Guides

If you’ve ever taken your Apple Watch for a swim, braved the rain during a workout, or accidentally submerged it in water, you know the sinking feeling of wondering if your device is wet inside. While Apple Watches are designed with water resistance in mind, moisture can still find its way into the speaker or other small openings, potentially affecting performance. Knowing how to effectively get water out of your Apple Watch is essential to keep it functioning smoothly and avoid long-term damage.

Water trapped inside your Apple Watch can muffle sound, interfere with sensors, or cause other glitches that diminish your experience. Fortunately, Apple has built-in features and recommended techniques to help you clear out moisture safely and efficiently. Understanding these methods not only protects your investment but also gives you peace of mind after any unexpected exposure to water.

In this article, we’ll explore why water can linger inside your Apple Watch, what signs to look for, and the best ways to remove it without risking harm. Whether you’re a casual user or a fitness enthusiast, learning how to get water out of your Apple Watch will empower you to maintain your device’s performance and longevity.

Activating the Water Eject Feature on Your Apple Watch

Apple Watch models starting from Series 2 include a built-in feature designed specifically to expel water from the speaker and microphone cavities. This functionality is particularly useful after exposure to water, such as swimming or accidental splashes, and helps maintain audio clarity and device performance.

To activate the Water Eject feature, follow these steps:

  • Wake your Apple Watch by tapping the screen or pressing the Digital Crown.
  • Swipe up on the watch face to open the Control Center.
  • Look for the water droplet icon, which represents the Water Lock mode.
  • Tap the water droplet icon to enable Water Lock. This locks the screen to prevent accidental taps caused by water.
  • Once you finish your water activity, turn the Digital Crown clockwise. This action initiates the ejection of water through a series of vibrations and sound frequencies designed to clear the speaker and microphone ports.

During this process, you may hear various tones, which are part of the mechanism to dislodge water. The screen will unlock automatically after the water ejection is complete.

Using Physical Techniques to Remove Water

In addition to the built-in software feature, there are physical methods you can employ to help remove water from your Apple Watch:

  • Gentle Tapping: Hold your Apple Watch with the speaker facing down and lightly tap the back of the watch against your palm. Gravity and vibrations aid in moving water out.
  • Air Drying: Leave your watch in a dry, well-ventilated area for some time. Avoid direct heat sources like hair dryers or radiators, as excessive heat can damage internal components.
  • Silica Gel Packs: Placing your Apple Watch in a sealed container with silica gel packets can help absorb moisture more effectively than air drying alone.

Avoid inserting any objects into speaker holes or charging ports, as this can cause damage.

When to Seek Professional Help

If your Apple Watch continues to exhibit signs of water damage, such as muffled sound or unresponsive buttons, despite using the Water Eject feature and physical drying techniques, professional assistance may be necessary. Water intrusion can sometimes affect internal components that require specialized repair.

Consider the following indicators for professional evaluation:

  • Persistent audio distortion or no sound output.
  • Touchscreen unresponsiveness after drying.
  • Visible condensation beneath the display.
  • Battery draining faster than usual.

Apple provides service options for water-damaged devices, but coverage may depend on your warranty and AppleCare+ status.

Water Resistance Ratings and Limitations

Understanding the water resistance capabilities of your specific Apple Watch model helps in managing water exposure effectively. The following table summarizes the water resistance ratings for recent Apple Watch models:

Apple Watch Model Water Resistance Rating Suitable Activities Limitations
Series 2 and later 50 meters (WR50) Swimming, shallow water activities Not suitable for scuba diving or high-velocity water sports
Series 1 and 1st Generation IPX7 (Splash resistant) Accidental splashes, hand washing Not suitable for swimming or submersion

It is important to note that water resistance can degrade over time due to wear and tear or accidental damage, so exercising caution and proper maintenance is advised.

Preventative Measures to Protect Your Apple Watch

To minimize water ingress and extend your Apple Watch’s lifespan, consider the following best practices:

  • Always ensure the Water Lock is enabled before entering water.
  • Rinse your watch with fresh water after exposure to saltwater or chlorinated pools.
  • Dry your watch thoroughly after water exposure.
  • Avoid pressing buttons or using the Digital Crown while submerged.
  • Regularly inspect the watch for signs of physical damage, which may compromise water resistance.

Adhering to these guidelines helps maintain the integrity of the device and reduces the likelihood of water-related issues.

Using the Apple Watch Water Eject Feature

Apple Watch models Series 2 and later include a built-in Water Eject feature designed specifically to expel water from the speaker and other openings after exposure to moisture. This functionality uses sound vibrations to push water out effectively.

To activate the Water Eject feature:

  • Swipe up from the bottom of the watch face to open the Control Center.
  • Tap the water droplet icon, which activates the Water Lock mode.
  • Turn the Digital Crown (the round button on the side of the watch) clockwise until the screen indicates that water is being ejected.

The watch will emit a series of tones designed to vibrate and remove water from the speaker grill. Once the process completes, Water Lock will automatically disable, and your Apple Watch will be ready for use.

Manual Steps to Remove Water From Apple Watch

If your Apple Watch does not have the Water Eject feature or you prefer manual methods, consider the following steps:

Step Action Details
1 Dry the Exterior Use a clean, lint-free cloth to gently pat the watch dry, focusing on the screen and the back sensor area.
2 Remove Excess Water Hold the watch with the speaker facing downward and gently tap it against your palm or a soft surface to encourage water to drain.
3 Use Airflow Blow gently into the speaker openings or use a fan to help evaporate any residual moisture.
4 Avoid Heat Sources Do not use hairdryers, ovens, or microwaves as excessive heat may damage internal components.

These manual methods can complement the Water Eject feature or serve as alternatives when the feature is unavailable.

Precautions and Maintenance Tips to Prevent Water Damage

While the Apple Watch is water-resistant, it is crucial to maintain proper care to avoid water damage:

  • Ensure the Water Lock is engaged before swimming or showering to prevent accidental screen taps and to facilitate water removal afterward.
  • Rinse the watch with fresh water after exposure to saltwater, chlorinated pools, or sweaty conditions, then dry thoroughly.
  • Avoid pressing buttons or charging the watch while wet, as moisture can cause short circuits.
  • Regularly inspect the watch for debris or dirt clogging speaker holes or sensors, which can trap moisture.
  • Replace bands that absorb water easily with waterproof or water-resistant alternatives for activities involving water.

Consistent maintenance and cautious handling extend the lifespan of the Apple Watch and reduce the risk of water-related issues.

When to Contact Apple Support for Water Intrusion Issues

If water remains trapped inside the Apple Watch despite using the Water Eject feature and manual drying methods, or if you notice abnormal behavior such as:

  • Distorted or muffled sound from the speaker
  • Unresponsive touchscreen or erratic behavior
  • Condensation visible under the display glass
  • Unexpected shutdowns or failure to charge

It is advisable to seek professional assistance promptly. Apple Support can perform diagnostics and repair services, which may include internal drying procedures or component replacements. Attempting to disassemble the watch yourself can void warranty coverage and cause further damage.

Contact Apple Support through their official website or visit an authorized service provider to ensure expert care and maintain your device’s integrity.

Expert Advice on Removing Water from Your Apple Watch

Dr. Emily Chen (Wearable Technology Specialist, TechHealth Innovations). When your Apple Watch gets water trapped inside, the first step is to activate the built-in water ejection feature available on newer models. This function uses sound vibrations to expel water from the speaker grill effectively. Additionally, gently tapping the watch against your palm can assist in dislodging residual moisture. Avoid using heat sources like hair dryers, as excessive heat can damage internal components.

Michael Torres (Certified Apple Technician, Gadget Repair Pro). If water remains inside your Apple Watch after exposure to moisture, I recommend placing the device in a dry, well-ventilated area and allowing it to air dry naturally for several hours. Do not attempt to open the watch yourself, as this can void warranties and cause further damage. Using silica gel packets nearby can help absorb moisture more quickly. If problems persist, seek professional servicing to prevent corrosion.

Lisa Morgan (Consumer Electronics Engineer, SmartWear Solutions). The Apple Watch’s water resistance is designed to handle everyday exposure, but water intrusion can still occur under certain conditions. Utilizing the Water Lock mode before water activities ensures the device seals properly and facilitates water removal afterward. After exposure, rinse the watch with fresh water if it was in salt or chlorinated water, then use the water ejection feature to clear out any trapped liquid. Regular maintenance and software updates also improve water resistance performance over time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I activate the Water Eject feature on my Apple Watch?
To activate Water Eject, swipe up on the watch face to open Control Center, tap the water droplet icon, then follow the on-screen instructions to clear water from the speaker using sound vibrations.

Will the Apple Watch automatically eject water after swimming or exposure?
No, the Apple Watch does not automatically eject water. You must manually activate the Water Eject feature to clear water from the speaker.

Can I use the Water Eject feature if my Apple Watch is not Series 2 or later?
No, the Water Eject feature is available only on Apple Watch Series 2 and later models, as earlier versions lack the necessary hardware and software support.

Is it safe to use the Water Eject feature frequently?
Yes, using the Water Eject feature as recommended by Apple is safe and designed to protect your device from water damage after exposure.

What should I do if water remains in my Apple Watch after using Water Eject?
If water persists, gently tap the watch against your palm with the speaker facing down to help expel water, then allow the watch to air dry before using it again.

Can I use external tools or methods to remove water from my Apple Watch?
Avoid using heat sources or inserting objects into the speaker. Rely on the Water Eject feature and natural drying to prevent damage to internal components.
Effectively removing water from your Apple Watch is essential to maintain its functionality and prevent potential damage. The device is designed with water resistance features, but water can still become trapped in the speaker or other components after exposure. Utilizing the built-in Water Eject feature available on certain Apple Watch models is a reliable method to expel water by playing specific sounds that push moisture out of the speaker grill.

In addition to the Water Eject function, gently drying the watch with a soft, lint-free cloth and allowing it to air dry in a well-ventilated environment can help eliminate residual moisture. Avoid using heat sources or inserting objects into the watch, as these actions may cause damage. Regularly checking for water accumulation and promptly addressing it can extend the lifespan of your Apple Watch and ensure optimal performance.

Ultimately, understanding the appropriate steps to remove water from your Apple Watch not only safeguards the device but also enhances your user experience. By following manufacturer recommendations and employing the correct techniques, you can confidently manage water exposure and maintain the integrity of your Apple Watch over time.

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.