Can I Shower With My Apple Watch?

The Apple Watch has become an essential accessory for many, providing a wide range of features and functionalities. However, when it comes to water exposure, there can be some confusion regarding its suitability for activities like showering. In this article, we will explore the water resistance capabilities of the Apple Watch and discuss whether it is safe to shower with it. 

Turn the digital crown to Eject Water and Unlock to achieve this. The speaker will play a sequence of tones as you spin the crown to assist you in draining the water. Turn the crown once all water-related sounds have vanished.

Understanding Water Resistance of Apple Watch

Before we delve into the topic, it's important to understand the water resistance ratings provided by Apple for its various watch models. Apple uses a standardized rating system that indicates the level of water resistance an Apple Watch possesses. The water resistance ratings include:

Splash Resistance (IPX7): This rating applies to the original Apple Watch and the Apple Watch Series 1. It means they are resistant to splashes of water but not designed for submersion.

Water Resistance (WR50): This rating applies to the Apple Watch Series 2 and later models. It indicates that the watch can be submerged up to 50 meters in water without suffering damage.

Water Resistance (WR50M): Some newer models, like the Apple Watch Series 3, carry this rating, which is similar to WR50.

Showering with Apple Watch - Pros and Cons

While the Apple Watch has a certain level of water resistance, showering with it is a topic of debate among users. Let's examine the pros and cons to help you make an informed decision:

Pros:

Convenience: Showering with your Apple Watch allows you to stay connected and access its features, such as checking notifications or controlling music playback.

Time Management: For those with a busy schedule, multitasking by wearing the watch in the shower can be a time-saving option.

Health Tracking: If you use health and fitness apps, wearing the Apple Watch in the shower can ensure that you don't miss any data, including heart rate or activity tracking.

Cons:

Soap and Shampoo Residues: The chemicals in soaps and shampoos can affect the water resistance of the watch over time, potentially causing damage.

Heat and Steam: Prolonged exposure to hot water and steam can also impact the adhesives and seals that maintain the watch's water resistance.

Water Pressure: Depending on the water pressure in your shower, there is a chance that it could exceed the rated water resistance level, leading to potential damage.

Risks and Precautions

If you still decide to shower with your Apple Watch despite the potential risks, it is crucial to take some precautions:

Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Try to minimize exposure to excessively hot or cold water, as it can impact the watch's components.

Rinse Thoroughly: After showering, make sure to rinse the watch with clean water to remove any soap or shampoo residues.

Avoid Soaps and Shampoos: If possible, remove the watch while applying soaps or shampoos to reduce the risk of chemical damage.

Consider a Protective Case: Investing in a waterproof case specifically designed for the Apple Watch can provide an extra layer of protection to safeguard it during showering.

Tips for Showering with Apple Watch

If you decide to wear your Apple Watch in the shower, here are some tips to ensure its safety:

Check Water Resistance: Before showering, ensure that your Apple Watch model is rated for water resistance. Refer to Apple's official documentation or the manufacturer's website for detailed information.

Secure the Band: Make sure the band is securely fastened to prevent water from seeping into the watch through the strap connections.

Enable Water Lock Mode: Activate the Water Lock mode on your Apple Watch to disable touch input and prevent accidental interactions while it's exposed to water. To enable this feature, swipe up on the watch face, tap the water droplet icon, and turn the Digital Crown to unlock it after you're done showering.

Dry Thoroughly: After showering, dry your Apple Watch carefully using a soft, lint-free cloth. Pay special attention to the speaker, microphone, and charging port areas.

Give it Time to Dry: Allow your Apple Watch to air dry completely before charging or wearing it again. This step helps prevent moisture from getting trapped inside the watch, which could lead to damage.

Alternatives to Showering with Apple Watch

If you're concerned about potential damage to your Apple Watch while showering, you may consider the following alternatives:

Take it off: The simplest option is to remove your Apple Watch before entering the shower. Store it in a safe place, away from water and steam.

Waterproof Fitness Bands: If tracking your health and fitness activities is important to you during shower time, you could explore waterproof fitness bands that are specifically designed for use in water.

Syncing Data Later: If you're primarily concerned about missing out on health or activity tracking data, you can sync your Apple Watch with your iPhone or other compatible devices after your shower to capture the missed information.

Maintaining Water Resistance

To maintain the water resistance of your Apple Watch in the long term, keep the following points in mind:

Regular Cleaning: Periodically clean your Apple Watch with a non-abrasive, lint-free cloth to remove any dirt, dust, or residue that might compromise its water resistance.

Avoid Extreme Conditions: Protect your watch from exposure to extreme temperatures, high-pressure water sources, and chemicals, as they can weaken the watch's seals and adhesives.

Service and Repairs: If you notice any issues with the water resistance of your Apple Watch or suspect water damage, it's advisable to contact Apple or an authorized service provider for assessment and repairs.

Conclusion

Showering with an Apple Watch is a personal choice, considering the pros and cons. While the watch possesses a certain level of water resistance, it's essential to be aware of the potential risks associated with exposing it to water, soap, and steam. Following the provided precautions can help minimize these risks and prolong the water resistance capabilities of your Apple Watch.