IP Ratings Explained (IP67 vs IP68): What “Water Resistant” Really Means
Customers hear “water resistant” and think “waterproof.” That misunderstanding leads to damaged phones, denied warranty claims, and angry returns. This ip ratings explained guide breaks down what IP67 and IP68 actually mean, what they do not cover, and the simple dealer scripts that prevent problems before they happen.
Quick Answer (Say This in 10 Seconds)
IP ratings are lab test ratings for dust and water resistance. IP67 and IP68 mean the phone is sealed well enough to survive certain water exposure in controlled conditions — but it is not waterproof, and water damage is often not covered by warranty.
Dealer line: "Water resistant helps with accidents. It’s not a promise for pools, oceans, or daily water use."
What “IP” Means (Simple Breakdown)
IP stands for Ingress Protection. It’s a two-digit rating:
First digit (dust/solids): how well it blocks dirt, dust, sand, etc.
Second digit (water): how well it resists water exposure in a lab test.
Example: IP68 = strong dust protection + strong water resistance (under test conditions).
IP67 vs IP68 (What’s the Difference?)
Both are good. The difference is mainly the water test level.
IP67
Dust: 6 = dust-tight
Water: 7 = can handle temporary immersion in water under specific lab conditions
IP68
Dust: 6 = dust-tight
Water: 8 = can handle immersion beyond the IPX7 test level under specific lab conditions (depth/time defined by the manufacturer)
Dealer line: "IP68 is usually tested for deeper/longer than IP67, but it still doesn’t mean waterproof in real life."
What IP Ratings Cover (and What They Don’t)
What they generally cover
Accidental splashes
Rain exposure
Short, accidental drops into fresh water (depending on rating and conditions)
What they do NOT guarantee
Salt water: ocean water is corrosive and can damage seals and ports
Chlorine/pool water: chemicals can degrade seals
Hot water/steam: showers, hot tubs, saunas can push moisture past seals
High-pressure water: sinks, hoses, jets, “waterproof” filming
Repeated exposure: seals wear over time
Damage after drops/repairs: cracks, frame bends, or third-party repairs can reduce resistance
Why “Water Resistant” Changes Over Time
Even if a phone was water resistant when new, resistance can decrease because of:
Normal wear on gaskets and adhesives
Drops that slightly bend the frame or loosen seals
Heat exposure (car dashboards, heavy gaming heat, hot environments)
Screen replacements or repairs that weren’t resealed to factory standard
Dealer line: "IP rating is a lab rating when the phone is new. Real life wear can change it."
Dealer Checklist: How to Set Expectations (and Reduce Returns)
Use the right words: say “water resistant,” not “waterproof.”
Explain the purpose: it’s for accidents, not intentional underwater use.
Warn about salt/chlorine/steam: these are the top real-world killers.
Ask about repairs: if the phone has been opened, resistance may be reduced.
Recommend a case: water resistance doesn’t protect from drops.
Copy/Paste Dealer Scripts
Script A: Simple explanation
"This phone is water resistant, not waterproof. The IP rating is a lab test for accidental exposure — like rain or a quick drop in fresh water — but it’s not meant for pools, oceans, or showers."
Script B: Warranty expectation
"Even with an IP rating, water damage is often not covered by warranty. That’s why we treat water resistance as protection for accidents, not a guarantee."
Script C: Prevent the ‘I took it swimming’ return
"If you want to use a phone around water regularly, you’ll want a waterproof pouch or a dedicated action camera. The phone’s rating is for unexpected splashes, not repeated underwater use."
What To Do If a Phone Gets Wet (Quick Dealer Guidance)
Turn it off if possible (don’t keep trying to charge it).
Do not plug it in until the port is fully dry.
Dry the outside and let it air dry.
Avoid heat (no hair dryer).
If it was salt/chlorine: advise professional cleaning ASAP (corrosion risk).
Dealer note: Avoid promising “rice will fix it.” The safest advice is power off, dry, and professional inspection if needed.
Need accessories that help protect devices around water (cases, screen protectors, waterproof pouches) or repair/service partners? Browse our accessories directory and services directory.
Bottom Line for Dealers
IP ratings explained: IP67 and IP68 are lab-tested resistance ratings, not a promise of “waterproof.” The biggest real-world issues are salt water, chlorine, steam, pressure, and normal wear over time. Use simple language, set warranty expectations, and position water resistance as accident protection — and you’ll prevent a lot of avoidable returns.
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