Kindlesand poolside binge-reads go together like peanut butter and jelly. Grabbing a new fantasy series and posting up on a chaise chair under the sun is S-tier multitasking in my book – I love making the most of the UV index with my stories, but, with an abundance of siblings and rowdy apartment tenants at both pools I have at my disposal, I always run the risk of the splash zone interrupting the riders of Rohan coming to Gondor’s aid.
Only a few years ago, we lived in a world that could render almost all of our technology useless. White rice had never been held in such a multifaceted regard, honestly. But, nowadays, it’s commonplace for most of your handheld devices to boast some degree ofwater resistance– which includes Amazon’s famous Kindle lineup. But howwaterproofis your particular model, and what should you do to mitigate damage should it drop in the drink?
Kindle Paperwhite (2024) review: Bigger is better for almost everyone
I got my hands (and eyes) on the new Kindle Paperwhite (2024). I spent the weekend glued to it, and there was only tiny nit to pick.
How ‘waterproof’ is your Kindle?
And what those IP ratings really mean
The Kindle Paperwhite (10th Generation and newer), the Kindle Colorsoft, and the Kindle Oasis (9th Generation and newer) were all designed byAmazonto be waterproof. It features an IEC Standard 60529 rating ofIPX8, which means that – in a controlled environment – it can be immersed in up to two meters (6.56 feet) of fresh water for up to an hour. In saltwater, it can withstand 0.25 meters (0.82 feet) for only three minutes.
Why such a big difference between fresh and saltwater? Salt breaks down the seals and other materials that keep your devices waterproof quickly because it’s corrosive.
Amazon has also tested its Kindles in places where they’re likely to get wet – say the pool, the beach, etc. However, it’s important to highlight one thing, even if it might be obvious: Kindles are not meant for underwater usage. The only true case I can imagine someone using it underwater is if they’re a regular scuba diver who gets bored on their safety stops. In that case, another activity might be better for your entertainment.
That being said, accidents happen. I’ve dropped my Kindle in the bathtub a few more times than I’d like to admit. If your Kindle does decide to drop from your hands and pick up free diving, retrieve it as quickly as you can. Then, take the precautions I outline below to ensure there isn’t any damage.
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What to do if your Kindle gets wet
It doesn’t have a future in marine biology, I promise
First things first, grab it and get your Kindle out of the water (or dodge) as quickly as you can. Sure, you have up to an hour in freshwater, but keep in mind that three-minute mark for saltwater if you’re at the beach or reading on a boat. If it was just a splash, simply wipe it off with a clean cloth – you’re in the clear to keep reading. If it goes all the way under:
If your Kindle is dropped into anything other than fresh water (seawater, soapy water, pool water, etc.) give it a quick rinse off and out with cold fresh water. Then, dry it off with a soft cloth or towel.
Only 3 features are missing from Amazon’s cheaper Kindle Colorsoft
Amazon has introduced two new Kindle models, the Kindle Colorsoft 16GB and Kindle Colorsoft Kids.
If you’re concerned about the USB port and power button on the bottom, that’s normal – it’s a harder place to get completely dry. Amazon recommends letting the water drain out with gravity by standing it upright, and a bit of gentle finger taps if possible. It will dry off better and faster if you keep the device in a well-ventilated area, too. However, do not stick any external objects (like cotton swabs or paper towels) into the port.
It should go without saying, but please do not use a hair tool or microwave to dry off your Kindle. Amazon doesn’t want that, I do not want that, and you surely do not want that either – I promise.
