This wikiHow teaches you how to make an MP3 player safe to use while swimming or performing activities in poor weather. The easiest way to waterproof an MP3 player is by using a waterproof bag with a headphone jack installed, though you can also use a regular waterproof bag if you have waterproof Bluetooth headphones and an MP3 player which supports Bluetooth. If all else fails, you may want to purchase a professionally waterproofed MP3 player.
StepsMethod 1Method 1 of 3:Using a Waterproof Case
1Buy the right kind of waterproof case. If you want to be able to use your MP3 player while submerged or in wet conditions, the bag will need a built-in headphone jack.If you simply need a waterproof container in which to store your MP3 player, a regular waterproof plastic bag (or even a Ziploc bag) will be fine.
2Purchase waterproof headphones if necessary. Again, if you plan on listening to your MP3 player while underwater (or similar), you’ll need a set of waterproof headphones to go with it.You can usually find IPX7-standard headphones, which should be usable underwater for extended periods of time, in tech departments or online.Advertisement
3Place your MP3 player in the case and attach the built-in headphone jack. This headphone jack should plug directly into your MP3 player’s usual headphone jack.
4Remove any air pockets from the bag. This will both prevent the bag from floating and relieve any internal pressure on the bag’s seal.
5Seal the bag. This process will vary depending on the bag itself. It’s important to ensure that the seal is watertight, so consult the bag’s manual or instructions if you’re confused.
6Attach the waterproof headphones to the external headphone jack. This jack should poke out from the bag, so plug the 3.5 millimeter jack on the end of the headphones into it.
7Test the MP3 player while it’s dry. Once you submerge the MP3 player, the changes you’ll be able to make will be fairly restricted, so make sure that your headphones are connected, your MP3 player is on and running, and your bag is sealed.It’s also good to test the MP3 player setup underwater immediately; if it turns out that your headphones, the bag, and/or the MP3 player malfunction due to water damage, you may be able to request a refund.AdvertisementMethod 2Method 2 of 3:Using Bluetooth
1Understand when to use this method. If you want to use your smartphone, iPod Touch, or a similar item as your MP3 player, you may be able to set up a pair of waterproof Bluetooth headphones with your MP3 player.If you have a traditional MP3 player (e.g., an iPod Shuffle or Nano, a Zune, a SanDisk, etc.), you cannot use this method.
2Buy a set of waterproof Bluetooth headphones. The Wavetooth headset is a popular choice for underwater recreation, but you may be able to find a different pair in your preferred tech department or online outlet.[1]XResearch source
3Pair your headphones with your MP3 player. Typically, this will entail turning on your headphones, turning on your MP3 player’s Bluetooth, pressing the “Pair” button on your headphones, and selecting them in the MP3 player’s Bluetooth menu:iPhone or iPod – Open Settings, tap Bluetooth, enable Bluetooth if it’s off, and tap your headphones’ name.Android – Swipe down from the top of the screen, long-press the Bluetooth icon until it opens to the Bluetooth menu, enable Bluetooth if it’s off, and tap your headphones’ name.
4Consider leaving your MP3 player on land. Since most Bluetooth connections can withstand distances of around 30 feet, you don’t necessarily need to bring your MP3 player into a pool or body of water with you.[2]XResearch source
5Use a waterproof bag to contain your MP3 player. If you must take your MP3 player into the water with you, using a waterproof bag will keep it safe; just make sure that the bag is sealed and free of air pockets.AdvertisementMethod 3Method 3 of 3:Buying a Waterproof MP3 Player
1Determine your MP3 player’s primary purpose. If you plan on using your MP3 player for swimming laps or diving, you’ll need a better-proofed player than if you simply plan on using the MP3 player while working in rainy or damp conditions.MP3 players which are waterproofed for extensive underwater use are expensive—there’s no getting around that.
2Figure out which type of product to buy. The waterproofed iPod Shuffle is the most popular (and expensive) option, but several other companies make waterproof MP3 players, so establish a price range and review your options.[3]XResearch sourceThe MP3 player that you choose is often contingent on the type of computer you use, as some cheaper non-Apple MP3 players won’t synchronize with Mac computers.Any computer can use iTunes, so you can easily use an iPod Shuffle even if you have a non-Mac computer.
3Know where to look. Waterproof MP3 players aren’t commonly found in standard store departments, but you may be able to find a selection of waterproof MP3 players in tech-oriented stores such as Best Buy, RadioShack, and some Walmarts.You can also find waterproof MP3 players online in places like Amazon and eBay, with the added benefit that you can usually see what other consumers have to say about the product.
4Make sure that your MP3 player fits the correct standard. The waterproof standard by which most swimming equipment should be judged is IPX8 or higher; if your MP3 player falls below this standard (e.g., IPX7 or lower), it won’t likely be able to stand up to more than a few minutes of submersion.If you only plan on using your MP3 player in wet outdoor conditions (but not submerged conditions), standards such as IPX5, IPX6, and IPX7 will likely do the trick.
5Make sure that waterproof headphones are included. As you might expect, standard headphones won’t work underwater. Most waterproof MP3 players do come with proprietary headphones included.Waterproof headphones should include some kind of loop which goes around your ear in order to keep the MP3 player anchored.If you can’t find an MP3 player which includes waterproof headphones, you can find waterproof headphones both in tech stores and online. If you’re in a store, consider asking a rep for their recommendation.
6Buy a warranty if necessary. Especially when shopping in an in-store location, it’s best to purchase at least a 6-month warranty in case your MP3 player fills up with water and needs to be replaced.
7Test your MP3 player underwater. It’s best to do this immediately after purchasing/receiving the MP3 player, as you’re most likely to both have the receipts and be protected by a warranty. If your MP3 player works to your expectations, you’re all set.If your MP3 player falters or doesn’t carry a signal well, your problem may lie with the headphones.If your MP3 player simply doesn’t work underwater (even while fully charged), take or send back the player for a refund.Advertisement
