IP Ratings Explained (IP67, IP68) and Water-Resistance Myths

GET MORE TIPS HERE

Customers hear “water-resistant” and assume “waterproof.” That misunderstanding leads to some of the most painful returns in wireless retail. This guide gives IP ratings explained in plain English, what IP67 and IP68 really mean, and the myths dealers should correct before a customer takes a phone to the pool.

The 15-Second Explanation (Dealer Script)

IP stands for Ingress Protection. It is a rating that tells you how well a device resists dust and water.

• The first number = dust protection (solids)

• The second number = water protection (liquids)

Say it like this: "IP67/IP68 means water-resistant, not waterproof. It helps with accidents, not swimming."

IP Ratings Explained: How to Read IP67 and IP68

What the "6" means (dust)

6 is the highest common dust rating for phones. It means the device is designed to resist dust getting inside under test conditions.

What the "7" means (water)

7 generally means the device can handle temporary immersion in water under controlled testing conditions.

What the "8" means (water)

8 generally means the device can handle deeper/longer immersion than IP67, but the exact depth/time depends on the manufacturer’s stated test conditions.

Dealer translation: IP68 is usually “better” than IP67, but it is still not a guarantee for real life.

The Biggest Water-Resistance Myths (That Cause Returns)

Myth 1: "IP68 means waterproof"

Reality: Water resistance is designed for accidents (spills, rain, quick drops), not intentional water use.

Myth 2: "It is covered under warranty if it gets wet"

Reality: Many manufacturers still treat liquid damage as out-of-warranty, even on water-resistant phones. Water resistance reduces risk; it does not eliminate it.

Myth 3: "Saltwater and pool water are the same as fresh water"

Reality: Saltwater and chlorinated pool water are more corrosive and can damage seals, ports, speakers, and microphones faster than fresh water.

Myth 4: "Water resistance lasts forever"

Reality: Water resistance can weaken over time due to drops, repairs, heat, wear, and aging seals.

Myth 5: "If it survived once, it will survive again"

Reality: One successful “save” does not mean the seals are still perfect. Repeated exposure increases risk.

What Actually Breaks Water Resistance in Real Life

• Drops and impacts: tiny frame gaps can compromise seals

• Repairs: screen/battery repairs can change sealing if not done perfectly

• Heat: hot cars, hot showers, saunas can stress adhesives and seals

• Pressure: water pressure (waves, jets, swimming motion) is not the same as still-water lab tests

• Ports and trays: SIM trays and charging ports are common weak points

Dealer Script: Set Expectations Without Killing the Sale

Use this: "This phone is water-resistant for accidents like rain or a quick drop in water. But it’s not meant for swimming, and liquid damage usually isn’t covered. If you want real protection, a waterproof case is the safer move."

Quick Customer Checklist: Safer Water Habits

• Avoid pools, oceans, and hot tubs if possible

• Do not charge the phone if the port is wet

• If it gets wet, dry it fully before charging

• Avoid high-pressure water (showers, jets, faucets blasting the phone)

• Use a waterproof pouch/case for boating, beach days, and work sites

Dealer Troubleshooting: If the Phone Got Wet

1. Power it off if possible.

2. Do not charge it until fully dry.

3. Remove case and wipe moisture.

4. Let it dry in a ventilated area (time helps more than heat).

5. Watch for warning signs: muffled audio, fogged camera lens, random restarts, charging errors.

Need waterproof cases, pouches, and screen protection options dealers can recommend with confidence? Browse our accessories directory.

Bottom Line for Dealers

IP ratings explained: IP67 and IP68 describe dust and water resistance under controlled tests. They help with accidents, but they do not make a phone waterproof, and real-life factors (drops, repairs, heat, salt/chlorine, and water pressure) can defeat the rating. Set expectations clearly and offer a waterproof case for customers who plan to be around water.