The original Fitbit Flex is water-resistant, not waterproof, meaning it can handle splashes and sweat but should not be worn while swimming or showering. If you want to know how to waterproof Fitbit Flex, the honest answer is that you cannot make it fully waterproof, the safest approach is to follow Fitbit's most conservative guidance and avoid intentional water exposure altogether.
Is the Fitbit Flex actually waterproof?
The original Fitbit Flex is documented by Fitbit as water-resistant, not waterproof. The original Fitbit Flex manual says: “Water Resistant” and “Device is water resistant”. Fitbit's own manuals conflict: one says the device can be submerged up to 10 meters, while another says do not swim with it and do not recommend showering with it. The safer reading is that the model should not be treated as a waterproof device. The safest recommendation is to avoid swimming and showering with your Flex entirely.
Official Fitbit guidance on water exposure
Fitbit's manual for the original Flex gives specific, conservative instructions: do not swim with it, do not shower with it, and dry it thoroughly if it gets wet. The manual also states the band should stay dry and clean for skin comfort, and you should not wear it wet for long periods. These instructions are the most reliable source for protecting your device.
How to safely dry your Fitbit Flex after it gets wet
If your Flex gets wet, follow this simple procedure based on the manual's instructions:
- Remove the tracker from the band.
- Dry the tracker thoroughly with a soft, lint-free cloth, paying attention to the charging port and sensors.
- Let the device air-dry completely before reassembling and wearing it again.
- Avoid using heat sources like hairdryers, as excessive heat can damage the device.
No official page gives a more detailed Flex-specific cleaning procedure, such as approved cleaning agents or exact drying times.
Why a waterproof case isn't the answer
No official Fitbit, Google, Apple, or carrier support page documents a waterproof case for the original Fitbit Flex. Third-party cases or sleeves exist, but they are not endorsed by Fitbit and may fail, leading to water damage. Because no official source confirms their reliability, you should not assume a third-party case will protect your Flex from swimming or showering.
Water-resistant vs. waterproof: what this means for your Flex
Newer Fitbit models, such as the Flex 2, have 50-meter water resistance, but this rating does not apply to the original Flex. Fitbit’s current help content for Fitbit devices says most Fitbit devices are water-resistant to 50 meters, but that table lists Flex 2, not original Flex. For newer Fitbit devices, Google’s help page says many current models are water-resistant to 50 meters, but that does not change the original Flex guidance. The original Flex is only water-resistant, and Fitbit's own documents disagree on its capabilities. Do not assume the original Flex is safe for prolonged water exposure just because one legacy manual mentions submersion. For Fitbit support and ownership help, you can contact Fitbit by phone through their official support channels. Fitbit’s current setup requirements say the Fitbit app requires Apple iOS 15 and higher or Android 10 or higher. For iPhone and iPad, Google’s Fitbit setup help says to download and install the Fitbit app from the Apple App Store.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wear my Fitbit Flex while swimming?
No. One Fitbit manual explicitly says you should not swim with the original Flex. It is not designed for submersion.
Can I wear my Fitbit Flex in the shower?
Fitbit does not recommend showering with the original Flex. The high-pressure water and heat can damage the device.
What should I do if my Fitbit Flex gets wet accidentally?
Dry it thoroughly with a soft cloth, ensure the charging port is completely dry before charging, and avoid wearing it wet for long periods.
Does the Fitbit Flex have an IP rating?
The original Fitbit Flex does not have a published IP rating in any official Fitbit documentation. The manuals simply describe it as water-resistant.
Are there any official waterproof accessories for the Fitbit Flex?
No. No official Fitbit page documents a waterproof case or add-on for the original Flex. Third-party accessories are not endorsed and may not provide reliable protection.
