Introduction

Do you own an Apple Watch and wonder if it’s okay to wear it in the shower? While many people assume the answer is no, there are conflicting opinions and contradictory information on the topic. In this article, we will explore the question of whether you can shower with an Apple Watch comprehensively. We will present the pros and cons of wearing it in the shower, personal experiences from Apple Watch users, tips for taking care of the device, the history of waterproof technology in watches, and a philosophical perspective on the dilemma.

Can You Shower with Apple Watch?

The answer is yes, but with some caveats. Apple Watch Series 2 and newer models have an IP67 or IP68 rating, meaning they are water-resistant and can withstand splashes, raindrops, and even swimming in shallow water for up to 50 meters deep. However, while Apple Watch is technically “waterproof,” the company doesn’t recommend wearing it in the shower, hot tub, or sauna, as the pressure, temperature, and moisture can damage the watch’s components and seals over time. Prolonged exposure to water can also affect the accuracy of the sensors and touch screen. So, while you technically can shower with it, you may not want to risk the potential damage.

Pros and Cons of Showering with Apple Watch

The Apple Watch can offer some benefits when worn in the shower. For example, you can still receive notifications, track your activity, listen to music, and use timers or alarms while washing yourself. Additionally, if you have a cellular-enabled model, you can use Siri and make calls from your wrist without worrying about damaging your phone. However, there are also some downsides. The soaps, shampoos, and conditioners can affect the watch’s materials and cause skin irritation. Plus, if you have soap residue on your fingers, it can make the touch screen less responsive or activate features unintentionally. Lastly, if you forget to take off the watch before the shower, you’ll have to suffer through a wet wristband until it dries.

Personal Experiences with Showering and Apple Watch

A lot of Apple Watch owners have tried or considered wearing their watch in the shower, and many have mixed feelings about it. Some people swear by it, saying it’s convenient, time-saving, and that they’ve never had any issues with it. Others caution against it, saying it shortens the watch’s lifespan, causes skin irritation, or simply that it’s a hassle to dry it afterward. Here are some tips from people who have tried showering with the Apple Watch and shared their experiences online:

• Make sure the watch is snug on your wrist to prevent water from getting in and damaging the sensors and speakers.
• Use a non-abrasive, non-moisturizing soap to avoid damaging the watch’s materials.
• Wipe the watch dry with a microfiber cloth after each shower to prevent water spots from forming.
• Don’t use hot water or steam, as it can damage the seals.
• Take the watch off and clean it thoroughly every few showers to prevent buildup.

Taking Care of Your Apple Watch

If you do decide to wear your Apple Watch in the shower, you’re going to want to take good care of it, so it stays in top condition. Here’s a simple guide to cleaning, drying, and maintaining the watch:

• Use a soft, lint-free cloth to dry the watch after showering, gently wiping the screen, speaker, and wristband.
• Avoid exposing the watch to extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, or chemicals like chlorine, salt, or perfume.
• If the watch gets wet or is exposed to moisture, turn off and dry it thoroughly before turning it back on.
• Use a damp cloth to clean the watch’s body and wristband, but avoid getting water near the digital crown and bottom sensor unless rinsing it off.
• Avoid using any sharp objects or abrasive materials to clean the watch, as they can leave scratches.

Apple Watch and Waterproof Technology

The idea of a waterproof watch goes back over a century, but the technology didn’t advance significantly until the 1950s. The first waterproof watches were designed for diving purposes and had a depth rating of 200 meters, compared to the 50-meter rating of the Apple Watch. In recent years, many watchmakers, including Apple, have developed more advanced waterproofing within their watches. For example, certain models of the Rolex Submariner have been tested for depths of up to 1,200 meters without damage.

Philosophy of Showering with Technology

The question of whether to wear an Apple Watch in the shower may seem trivial, but it raises deeper questions about the relationship between humans and technology. While technology can facilitate our lives, offering convenience and access to information and people, it can also distract us from the present moment, making us overly reliant on its functions. Showering, a time when we’re most often alone and disconnected, may be an opportunity to take a break from screens and notifications and focus on ourselves.

Humorous Take on the Dilemma

Of course, not all Apple Watch talk needs to be serious or philosophical. Here are some of the funniest takes on the dilemma of showering with Apple Watch we’ve come across:

• “Keep wearing it in the shower to eventually clean it from all the wear and dust accumulated for not taking it to the shower in the first place.” – Reddit user
• “Showering with an Apple Watch is the adult equivalent of bringing your stuffed animal to the bath.” – Twitter user
• “Just don’t shave your wrist hair with the watch on. I did it once with the band too loose, and now my wrist looks like a shag carpet.” Reddit user

Conclusion

In conclusion, while you technically can wear your Apple Watch in the shower, it may not be worth the risk of potentially damaging it over time. However, ultimately, it’s up to you to decide what’s best for your device and lifestyle. If you do decide to wear it in the shower, make sure to take proper care of it and heed the dos and don’ts shared by Apple Watch users. Remember that technology is a tool to enhance our lives, but it’s not a substitute for living in the moment or taking care of ourselves.