Most Fitbits can handle sweat and brief water exposure, but not all models are safe for swimming
Whether your Fitbit survives water depends on which model you own. Fitbit divides its trackers into two groups: water-resistant and not water-resistant. Water-resistant models can handle sweat, rain, and accidental splashes. They are not waterproof, which means they cannot be submerged or worn while swimming. Non-water-resistant models should stay dry — even a shower can damage them.
The difference matters because water damage is not covered by Fitbit's standard warranty. If you wear a non-water-resistant tracker in the shower and it fails, you will need to replace it yourself. Knowing your model's rating before you get it wet saves money and frustration.
Key Takeaways
- Water-resistant Fitbits can handle sweat, rain, and splashes but should not be submerged or worn while swimming.
- Non-water-resistant models should be removed before showering, swimming, or any water exposure beyond accidental splashes.
- Water damage is not covered by Fitbit's warranty, so checking your model's rating before water exposure is essential.
- Fitbit Inspire, Charge, and Sense models are water-resistant; older models like the original Charge and Flex are not.
- Even water-resistant trackers can fail if exposed to saltwater, chlorine, or high-pressure water like a shower jet.
Which Fitbit models are water-resistant
Fitbit's current lineup includes several water-resistant models. The Fitbit Inspire 3, Inspire 2, and Inspire HR are all water-resistant to 50 meters. The Fitbit Charge 6, Charge 5, and Charge 4 are also rated to 50 meters. The Fitbit Sense 2 and original Sense are water-resistant to 50 meters as well. The Fitbit Ace 3, designed for children, is water-resistant to 50 meters.
A 50-meter water-resistance rating means the tracker can handle brief immersion in fresh water — such as washing your hands or being caught in rain — but it is not designed for swimming or diving. Fitbit does not currently make a waterproof tracker rated for swimming. If you need a tracker you can wear in a pool, you will need to look at other brands.
Which Fitbit models are not water-resistant
Older Fitbit models lack water resistance entirely. The original Fitbit Charge, Fitbit Flex, Fitbit One, and Fitbit Zip should not be exposed to water beyond accidental splashes. The Fitbit Blaze and Fitbit Ionic, despite being more recent, are also not water-resistant. If you own one of these models, remove it before showering, swimming, or any deliberate water exposure.
If you are unsure whether your model is water-resistant, check the product manual or visit Fitbit's official specifications page for your device. The manual will list the water-resistance rating or state that the device is not water-resistant. Fitbit's support site also has a searchable database of all models and their ratings.
What "water-resistant to 50 meters" actually means
The 50-meter rating does not mean you can dive 50 meters deep. It is a laboratory test that simulates brief immersion in fresh water at shallow depths. In real life, it means your tracker can survive being splashed, rained on, or briefly dunked in a sink or bathtub. It does not mean you should wear it while swimming laps or snorkeling.
The rating also assumes fresh water only. Saltwater, chlorine, and other chemicals can damage water-resistant trackers faster than fresh water. If you wear a water-resistant Fitbit at the beach or in a chlorinated pool, rinse it with fresh water afterward and dry it completely. High-pressure water — such as a shower jet or garden hose — can also force water past the seals, so avoid direct spray even on water-resistant models.
How to protect your Fitbit from water damage
If you own a water-resistant model, you can wear it during everyday activities without worry. Washing your hands, being caught in light rain, and sweating during exercise are all safe. You do not need to remove it before these activities.
If you own a non-water-resistant model, remove it before showering, swimming, or washing dishes. Store it in a dry place away from humidity. If it does get wet, turn it off when ready, remove the band, and let it air-dry completely for at least 24 hours before turning it back on. Do not use a hair dryer or place it near a heat source, as heat can damage the battery and electronics.
For water-resistant models, rinse with fresh water and dry with a soft cloth after exposure to saltwater, chlorine, or sweat. This prevents salt and chemicals from corroding the metal contacts and seals. Check the band regularly for cracks or peeling, as a damaged band can let water reach the electronics inside.
What to do if your Fitbit gets wet and stops working
If a non-water-resistant Fitbit gets wet and stops responding, do not try to charge it or turn it on. Power off when ready if possible, remove the band, and let it air-dry in a warm, dry place for at least 48 hours. Place it in a container with uncooked rice or silica gel packets, which absorb moisture. After 48 hours, try charging it again.
If a water-resistant Fitbit gets wet and stops working, the same drying process applies. However, water-resistant models are more likely to recover because their seals are designed to keep water out. If it does not respond after drying, contact Fitbit support. They may be able to troubleshoot the issue, though water damage is typically not covered under warranty.
Keep in mind that even if your tracker turns back on after drying, internal corrosion may have begun. It might work for a few weeks and then fail suddenly. If this happens, you will need to purchase a replacement.
Fitbit models and their water ratings at a glance
| Model | Water Resistance | Safe for Showers | Safe for Swimming |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inspire 3 | 50 meters | No | No |
| Inspire 2 / Inspire HR | 50 meters | No | No |
| Charge 6 / Charge 5 / Charge 4 | 50 meters | No | No |
| Sense 2 / Sense | 50 meters | No | No |
| Ace 3 | 50 meters | No | No |
| Original Charge | None | No | No |
| Flex | None | No | No |
| Blaze | None | No | No |
| Ionic | None | No | No |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wear my Fitbit in the shower?
No, even water-resistant Fitbits are not designed for shower use. The hot water and high-pressure spray can force water past the seals. Remove your tracker before showering, regardless of its water-resistance rating.
What happens if I accidentally drop my Fitbit in the toilet?
If you own a water-resistant model, fish it out when ready and dry it thoroughly. It should be fine. If you own a non-water-resistant model, turn it off right away, remove the band, and let it air-dry for at least 48 hours before trying to use it again.
Can I wear a water-resistant Fitbit while swimming?
No. Water-resistant does not mean waterproof. Fitbit's 50-meter rating covers brief immersion in fresh water, not continuous submersion during swimming. Wear your tracker before or after your swim, not during.
Is water damage covered by Fitbit's warranty?
No. Fitbit's standard warranty does not cover water damage, even on water-resistant models. If your tracker fails due to water exposure, you will need to purchase a replacement or pay for out-of-warranty repair.
How do I know if my old Fitbit is water-resistant?
Check the product manual or visit Fitbit's support website and search for your model number. The specifications will clearly state the water-resistance rating or say the device is not water-resistant. When in doubt, assume it is not water-resistant and keep it dry.