Published On: April 25, 2025By

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Led strips are used widely in the modern world. The waterproofing of light strips was also enhanced to accommodate the increased outdoor use.

This guide will explain the waterproof led strip definition, types, waterproof structures, waterproof IP comparisons, selections, and related questions.

1. LED Strip Waterproof IP Rated Overview

(1) Definition

The waterproof rating for LED strips is a classification of their protection against dust and moisture ingress. This rating is typically indicated by the IP (Ingress Protect) rating.

IP ratings are two-digit numbers that indicate protection against liquids and solid particles, respectively.

(2) Structure of IP Ratings

First Digit (Solid-Particle Protection): Ranging from 0-6 indicating resistance to dust and debris (e.g.).

Second Digit (Liquid protection): Ranges between 0 and 9, which indicates resistance to liquids.

1st Dust Protection Rating

  • 0No protection
  • 1Guards against solid objects ≥250mm
  • 2Prevents solids ≥12.5mm
  • 3Blocks solids ≥2.5mm
  • 4Stops solids ≥1.0mm
  • 5Dust-tight (minor dust ingress allowed, no operational impact)
  • 6Totally dust-proof (no dust penetration)

2nd Water Resistance Rating

  • 0No water protection
  • 1Safe from vertical drips
  • 2Protected when tilted 15° (dripping water harmless)
  • 3Resists spraying water (60° angle)
  • 4Withstands splashing water (any direction)
  • 5Defends against low-pressure water jets
  • 6Repels high-pressure water jets
  • 7Temporary submersion
  • 8Continuous submersion (specified depth, usually >1m, IP68)
  • 9Resistant to high-temperature, high-pressure sprays

2. LED Strip Waterproof IP Rated Types

(1) Non Waterproof LED Strips(IP20/IP33).

Description: Designed for indoor use with no moisture exposure.

Features:

No or minimal protective coating.

Cost-effective and lightweight.

Applications: Cabinets, home interiors or decorative lighting

Non-Waterproof LED Strips (IP20/IP33)

(2) Dripproof LED Strips (IP54/55)

Description: Protected against low-pressure dust and water jets.

Construction:

Surface Coating: Silicone resin or epoxy resin is applied on the PCB surface to seal components.

Limitations: Not fully submersible, suitable for damp areas such as kitchens and bathrooms

Applications: Outdoor signs (covered areas), indoor humid zone.

Drip-Proof LED Strips (IP54/IP55)

(3) Water Resistant LED Strips

Description: Resistant against dust and water jets in any direction.

Construction:

Semi-Casing: A PVC or silicone tube partially encases a strip of material, leaving spaces for heat dissipation.

Material: Used epoxy resin to provide flexibility and moderate waterproofing.

Applications: Installations outdoors (e.g. garden paths, patios), with indirect rain exposure.

Water-Resistant LED Strips (IP65)

(4) Fully Waterproof LED Strips IP67/IP68

Description: Fully sealed to dust and submersion.

Construction:

Full Encapsulation: The strip is completely enclosed in a PVC or silicone sleeve.

Subtypes:

Sleeve-Only IP67: Submersible for up to 30 minutes at 1 meter. Basic waterproofing using a hollow tube.

Potting (IP68). Fully submersible. Depth varies depending on the manufacturer (typically >=1.5 meters). The sleeve is sealed with silicone or epoxy resin. This offers superior moisture resistance, but reduces flexibility.

Applications: Submerged Lighting (e.g. pools, fountains), harsh environments outdoors

Fully Waterproof LED Strips (IP67/IP68)

3. Materials Used to Make Waterproof LED Strips

(1) Epoxy Resin/PU Potting Compounds:

Low cost, but it is prone to yellowing outdoors after 2-3 years. They are suitable for humid indoor or short-term outdoor applications due to their reduced flexibility after curing.

(2) Silicone-Based Systems:

Coating (IP65), a thin layer of silicone coats the PCB. This provides UV resistance, flexibility, and is ideal for curved installations, such as furniture edges.

Sleeve (IP67). Thick-walled, silicone tubing that provides protection from minor impacts, as well as wear resistance.

Potting Compound IP68: This high-grade silicone filler is resistant to extreme temperatures (from -45degC up to 200degC), as well as seawater corrosion. It’s ideal for industrial or deep-sea environments.

Silicone-Based Systems

(3) Nano Coating (e.g. Parylene) IP65+:

An ultra-thin 10-100mm film, formed by chemical vapor deposit (CVD), penetrates micro-gaps, e.g. solder joints, without impeding the heat dissipation. Used in precision equipment such as marine lighting.

4. Waterproof LED Strip Structure

(1) Heat Shrink Tubing Sealing:

Heat-shrink tube is used to seal connection points. It can be combined with silicone sealant on the ends for IP65+ protection. Often used for DIY outdoor wiring.

(2) Waterproof Connectors:

Molded silicone connectors are equipped with O-rings to provide IP67 dust and water resistance. This eliminates the risk of exposed solder joints. Ideal for situations requiring frequent disassembly.

(3)Aluminum Waterproof Channels:

Aluminum profiles extruded with silicone gaskets provide dual protection IP67 and heat dissipation. This is the preferred choice for LED strips with high power.

5. The Main Differences Between IP67 LED Strips and IP68 LED Strips

IP67 and IP68 are distinguished by their resistance to water immersion and durability for specific applications. They both have the same dustproof rating (IP6X), however, their liquid protection abilities are different.

IP67DH IP67SHAG IP67SH IP68SAG IP68D IP68S

(1) Water Immersion Resistance

IP Rating Protection Level Test Conditions
IP67 Temporary immersion in water (up to 1 meter depth) for 30 minutes. Submerged in 1m of water for 30 minutes.
IP68 Continuous / prolonged immersion in water (exceeding 1 meter depth) as specified by the manufacturer. Depth and duration vary by product (e.g., 2m for 24 hours or 3m indefinitely).

(2) Construction and Sealing

IP67:

To create an airtight seal, use silicone sleeves or epoxy resin pots.

Ideal for submerged environments (e.g. garden ponds and outdoor fountains).

IP68:

Uses high-grade potting compound (e.g. silicone gel) to ensure full encapsulation.

For permanent underwater use, e.g. pools, aquariums and marine lighting.

(3) Application Scenarios

IP67

  • 01Rainwater-heavy outdoor areas (e.g., eaves, signage).
  • 02Temporary water exposure (e.g., vehicle washdowns, flood-prone zones).
  • 03Short-term outdoor events (e.g., festivals, temporary decor).

IP68

  • 01Submerged installations (e.g., swimming pools, underwater landscapes).
  • 02Harsh industrial settings (e.g., wastewater treatment plants).
  • 03Coastal areas with saltwater exposure.

(4) Durability and Cost

IP67:

Cost savings (20-30% less than IP68)

Limit exposure to short intervals of water; prolonged immersion can cause seal failure.

IP68:

Costs higher up front but lifespan longer in extreme conditions.

Resists chemicals, saltwater and high-pressure washing.

(5) Installation Considerations

IP67:

Avoid using high-pressure direct water jets, such as power washers.

Seal connectors with silicone grease.

IP68:

Verify the manufacturer’s defined immersion limits (e.g. depth/duration).

For saltwater applications, use corrosion-resistant materials such as stainless steel mountings.

6. Guideline for Selecting IP ratings

(1) Dry Indoor Environments (e.g. Bedrooms, Offices, etc.):

IP20/IP33 – Economical, as no waterproofing is required.

(2) Humid Indoor Areas:

IP54/IP55: Resists splashes, steam and vapor.

(3) Semi Protected Outdoor Areas (e.g. Balconies, Covered Pathways):

IP65 (resists rainwater splashes, avoids direct exposure).

(4) Unprotected/Extreme Outdoor Environments (e.g., Gardens, Building Facades):

IP67/IP68: (withstands heavy rainfall, hail or prolonged moisture).

(5) Submerged and High-Pressure Setting (e.g. Pools, Industrial Facilities, etc.):

IP68 (fully sealed and resistant to high pressure impacts).

7. Connect Waterproof LED Strips with Silicone Glue

Connect Waterproof LED Strips with Silicone Glue

8. FAQs about Waterproof LED Strips

Check the IP rating (Primary indicator), inspect physical waterproofing, review manufacturer documentation and perform a simple water resistance test with Caution. Avoid counterfeits and incorrect labeling. You can also reliably determine whether an LED strip is waterproof.

Not all LED strips can be waterproof. According to the different environments and uses, LED strips are divided into waterproof and not-waterproof types.

You can find waterproof LED strips lights through six different channels, each of which caters to a specific need, budget, or environment: online retailers, lighting specialists, B2B platforms, local electronic markets, third-party certified testing and verification, and DIY and custom solutions.

If you choose low-voltage, IP68-rated strips that are fully encapsulated and IP68-rated from reputable suppliers, then LED strips will safely illuminate your pool.

What happens when waterproof LED strips are wetted?

It will not cause any problems if the light bar is waterproof (and used according to its rating).

The light bar must be waterproof and installed correctly. Otherwise, it will cause a short circuit or corrosion, which could lead to safety hazards.

When used in the specified environment and maintained properly, most waterproof strips (IP65 – IP68) can last up to 8 years.

Consider the worst-case scenario of water exposure for your application when determining what IP rating is required. IP65 is ideal for outdoor/indoor environments that are wet but do not pose a submersion threat (e.g. bathroom vanities, garden lighting), while IP67 works best in scenarios with temporary water immersion or high humidity.

Prioritize silicone-encapsulated strips with gold-plated contacts and UL/CE certification to ensure longevity and safety in humid environments. IP65 strips can be used in most bathroom applications, such as ceilings and under cabinets, where the water exposure is restricted to splashes or vapor. IP67 strips should be used in high-risk areas, such as shower niches and bathtub edges, or when temporary submersion may occur.

When combining waterproof LED strips, it is important to ensure that the electrical connections are precise, joints are waterproofed, and control systems are properly integrated.

You can cut waterproof LED strips at specified points.

9. You Can Read More about It Here:

Waterproof light strips will continue to grow, thanks to technological advances, urbanization and government support. Innovation in materials and technologies, which will overcome challenges such as cost and competition, will open up new applications for smart cities, underwater environments, cultural tourism and other areas. Leading companies in this dynamic industry are likely to be those that prioritize R&D and sustainability strategies, as well as niche market strategies.

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