I accidentally dropped my right AirPods to the washing and drying machine. Now it sounds, connects, and charge good as new. Can it explode or burn after several uses? is it a risk to use it?

Hey! Honestly, you got super lucky that it survived the wash and still works, but I really wouldn't risk using it anymore.

Even if it connects and sounds perfect right now, there is a very real, hidden danger with lithium-ion batteries when they go through that kind of stress. Here is a breakdown of why you should be careful:

The Lithium-Ion Battery Risk

AirPods pack tiny, tightly compressed lithium batteries. When water gets inside (especially mixed with laundry detergent), it starts a slow, invisible corrosion process on the internal components.

• Delayed Short Circuits: Corrosion doesn't happen instantly. Days or weeks from now, that moisture or rust could bridge a connection on the circuit board, causing a short.
• Thermal Runaway: If the battery shorts out while you are using it or charging it, it can undergo "thermal runaway." This means it could rapidly overheat, melt, or literally catch fire.

The Dryer is the Real Enemy

Water is bad, but the heat and tumbling from the drying machine are much worse for electronics.

• Compromised Seals: The intense heat from a dryer can melt the internal adhesives and severely damage the battery's protective protective layers.
• Battery Swelling: Extreme heat exposure significantly increases the chances of the lithium battery swelling up over time, which is incredibly dangerous inside a sealed plastic casing.

What You Should Do Now

I know it sucks to hear since it is currently working fine, but your safety is way more important than saving a few bucks.

• Stop Charging It: Putting electricity into a potentially compromised, water-damaged battery is the highest-risk moment for a fire to start.
• Stop Wearing It: You definitely don't want a compromised lithium battery sitting directly inside your ear canal.
• Get a Replacement: You don't have to buy a whole new set; Apple Support lets you purchase just a single right AirPod replacement.

It’s just not worth the risk of it popping in your ear or starting a fire on your nightstand. Have you noticed the AirPod or the charging case getting unusually warm when plugged in since this happened?