Can You Wear Headphones in the Bath?

Listening to music, a podcast or even an audiobook while soaking in the bath sounds like the ultimate way to switch off. For many people, a bath is one of the few moments of uninterrupted calm in a busy day, so it’s natural to want to enhance that experience with sound. But can you actually wear headphones in the bath safely?

The short answer is sometimes, but only with care, and only with the right equipment. Below, we’ll explore the risks, the safest options available, and a few sensible alternatives that can help you enjoy music in the bath without putting yourself or your devices in danger.

Table of Contents

• The basic answer
• Why the bath is risky
• Waterproof headphones
• What to avoid
• Safe listening tips
• Safer alternatives
• Music and relaxation
• Luxury whirlpool baths at Luna Spas

The basic answer

Yes, it is possible to listen to audio in the bath using headphones, but only if those headphones are specifically designed to be waterproof. Standard wired or wireless headphones are not suitable for use in or around bathwater.

Water and electricity are a dangerous combination, and the bathroom is one of the highest-risk environments in the home when it comes to electrical safety. This means caution should always come first, even when the aim is relaxation.

Why the bath is risky

Baths create a perfect storm of potential hazards. Warm water, condensation, steam and bare skin all increase the risks associated with electronic devices.

The main concerns are:

• Electric shock: Even low-voltage devices can pose a risk if water enters the circuitry.
• Device failure: Moisture can permanently damage headphones that aren’t properly sealed.
• False sense of security: Some devices are described as “water-resistant”, which is not the same as waterproof.

For these reasons, using everyday headphones in the bath is strongly discouraged.

Waterproof headphones

Waterproof headphones are designed for activities such as swimming, showering or watersports. They are sealed against moisture and usually carry an IP rating (Ingress Protection rating) that indicates how resistant they are to water.

For bath use, headphones should ideally be rated at least IPX7, meaning they can withstand immersion in water up to one metre deep for a limited time. Even then, they should be used with care.

Many waterproof headphones store audio files internally rather than relying on a live Bluetooth connection. This is because Bluetooth signals don’t travel well through water, and it removes the need to have a phone or tablet anywhere near the bath.

What to avoid

There are a few clear don’ts when it comes to listening to audio in the bath:

• Do not use wired headphones connected to a phone plugged into the mains.
• Do not rest phones or tablets on the edge of the bath.
• Do not assume water-resistant earbuds are safe for immersion.
• Do not use damaged or poorly sealed devices.

If there’s any doubt about a device’s suitability, it’s best to keep it well away from the bath.

Safe listening tips

If you do decide to use waterproof headphones in the bath, a few simple precautions can help reduce risk:

• Keep volume at a moderate level so you remain aware of your surroundings.
• Check the headphones for damage before each use.
• Avoid charging any devices in the bathroom.
• Stop using them immediately if you notice unusual sounds, heat or discomfort.

Safety should always take priority over convenience.

Safer alternatives

For many people, the safest and simplest solution is not to wear headphones at all.

A popular alternative is using a waterproof or water-resistant Bluetooth speaker placed well away from the bath itself. Positioned on a shelf, windowsill or vanity unit, a speaker can fill the bathroom with sound without coming into contact with water.

This approach allows you to enjoy music, podcasts or ambient sounds while keeping electronics out of the bath entirely. It also creates a more open, spa-like atmosphere, rather than isolating you from your surroundings.

Music and relaxation

Music can play a powerful role in helping the body and mind relax. Gentle music, nature sounds or guided meditations can help lower stress levels, slow breathing and encourage mental calm.

Combined with warm water, soft lighting and a comfortable bathing position, sound can turn an ordinary bath into a restorative ritual. This kind of sensory experience is increasingly associated with wellbeing, mindfulness and self-care at home.

The key is finding a setup that enhances relaxation without introducing unnecessary risk.

Luxury whirlpool baths at Luna Spas

Wearing headphones in the bath isn’t automatically unsafe, but it does require the right equipment and a cautious approach. For many people, a well-placed speaker offers a safer and more practical way to enjoy music while bathing.

If bathing is an important part of your relaxation routine, it’s also worth considering how the bath itself contributes to that experience. A high-quality whirlpool bath can elevate bathing from a simple soak to a deeply relaxing, spa-like experience in your own home.

At Luna Spas, you’ll find a wide range of beautifully designed whirlpool baths that combine comfort, craftsmanship and wellbeing. With soothing jets, generous dimensions and elegant finishes, they’re designed to help you truly switch off, with or without music.