How to 3D Print Waterproof Parts
Master the art of 3D printing waterproof parts. Learn techniques and insights for creating durable and watertight prints
How to 3D Print Waterproof Parts
Image from Fabbaloo : https://www.fabbaloo.com/2017/10/waterproofing-your-3d-prints
3D printing has evolved far beyond prototyping. Today, engineers, manufacturers, product designers, and hobbyists are increasingly using 3D printing to create functional parts that must withstand moisture, rain, splashes, or even full submersion. Understanding how to waterproof 3D prints is essential when producing containers, plumbing components, outdoor fixtures, marine accessories, custom enclosures, and industrial parts. In this guide, we'll explain whether 3D prints are waterproof, how to create a waterproof 3D print, the best materials to use, recommended slicer settings, and proven post-processing techniques that improve water resistance and watertight performance.
Master the art of 3D printing waterproof parts. Learn techniques and insights for creating durable and watertight prints
How to 3D Print Waterproof Parts
If you need to 3D print a part that will be exposed to water, there are a few things you can do to make sure it stays waterproof. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the methods you can use to make your 3D prints waterproof. We will also provide tips on how to select the right materials for your project.
How to Waterproof 3D Prints
If you're looking for the fastest answer to how to make 3D prints waterproof, follow these best practices:
- Use water-resistant filaments such as PETG, ABS, or ASA
- Increase wall thickness and perimeter count
- Print at optimized temperatures for stronger layer bonding
- Use high infill percentages for functional parts
- Apply an epoxy resin or polyurethane coating
- Seal visible layer lines and gaps
- Test the finished part before deployment
For applications requiring complete water containment, combining optimized print settings with post-processing techniques typically provides the most reliable results.
Is it possible to 3D print waterproof parts?
3D printing technology has come a long way in recent years, and it is now possible to print parts that are strong, durable, and waterproof. This is thanks to the development of new materials that can withstand exposure to water without distortion or damage. In addition, many 3D printers now come equipped with special settings that help to prevent moisture from seeping into the finished product. As a result, it is now possible to create parts that are both waterproof and 3D printed.
As technology advances, the ability to 3D print waterproof parts will be a game-changer for many industries. Already businesses are starting to print plumbing fixtures; imagine the change as everything from gaskets to boat hulls become 3D printable, without having to worry about water damage. Waterproof 3D printing will also open up new possibilities for outdoor applications, such as printed sculptures or fountains.
While to some it may sound like something out of a science fiction movie, 3D printing waterproof parts is already a reality. There are already a few different types of 3D printers on the market, and the technology is only getting better. Stereolithography, for example, is a type of 3D printing that uses an ultraviolet (UV) curing process to seal the material and prevent water from penetrating the print. As the technology continues to develop, it is likely that we will see more and more uses for this amazing technology.
It's important to understand that water resistance and watertightness depend not only on the material but also on print quality, layer adhesion, wall thickness, and post-processing methods. Even highly water-resistant materials can leak if layer gaps are present.
However, it is also possible to get a respectable level of waterproof using more common types of 3D printing and materials. This article is geared towards applications such as small items or prototypes that you want to 3D print and are waterproof.
Are 3D Prints Waterproof?
One of the most common questions in additive manufacturing is: Are 3D prints waterproof?
The answer is: not always.
Most FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) prints contain microscopic gaps between layers that can allow water to penetrate over time. While many filaments themselves are water resistant, the printed object may still leak if the layers are not fully fused.
SLA resin prints typically produce smoother surfaces and fewer microscopic voids, making them naturally more water resistant than standard FDM prints. However, even resin prints may require sealing for demanding applications.
To create a truly waterproof or watertight part, focus on:
- Material selection
- Layer adhesion
- Wall thickness
- Print settings
- Surface sealing
Is it possible to 3D print waterproof and watertight parts?
Waterproof vs. watertight
And a quick sidenote! There is a difference between waterproof and watertight. Although the terms are used interchangeably, they have different meanings.
In the context of this article, waterproof means that an object is impervious to water, and won’t break down by contact with water or being submerged in water.
Watertight, on the other hand, means that an object is sealed so tightly that no water can enter. This term is typically used in reference to containers, such as bottles or bags, that are designed to keep water in or out.
What matters when you’re 3D printing waterproof parts?
When it comes to 3D printing, there are a few things you need to keep in mind if you want to produce waterproof parts. The first is the material you're using, as some materials are naturally more resistant to water than others. The second thing to consider are your slicer settings. For example, you can use a higher infill percentage or print with a thicker wall thickness to increase the water resistance. Finally, there are some post-processing techniques that can be used to make your prints more waterproof. One common method is to apply a coat of resin or varnish to the surface of the print. This will create a barrier that will help to keep water out.
Let’s go into a bit more detail on how you can produce parts that are resistant to water damage.
The material used for 3D printing waterproof parts
When it comes to 3d printing waterproof parts, there are a few different materials that you can choose from.
PLA and ABS are both popular choices, and PETG is becoming increasingly popular as well. Each of these materials has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to choose the right one for your specific needs.
PLA is popular as it is cheap and readily available, but it can be difficult to print with and is not as flexible as some other materials. Over time it can absorb water and swell, so consider your application: a bath toy that sees occasional use vs. a water feature for your garden that is going to be wet day in and day out.
ABS is another popular choice. It has good heat resistance (better than PLA) and doesn’t swell as much as some other materials. However, it is not as strong as PLA and can be difficult to work with. One of the main reasons to use it is that you can post-process it with acetone, as discussed later.
PETG is a newer material that is becoming more popular, as it is stronger than PLA and more flexible than ABS. It can be a bit difficult to print with and isn't as widely available as some other materials; however, it is well known for its durability and strength, as well as resistance to high temperatures, water, and solvents. It is likely an appropriate choice for most waterproof parts.
Best Waterproof 3D Filaments Compared
For most users looking for a waterproof 3D filament, PETG offers the best balance between printability, strength, and water resistance.
Which slicer settings to use for printing waterproof parts?
Best slicer settings for 3D printing waterproof parts
A key point to consider is the slicer settings, as that can determine how well your 3D printer can produce waterproof parts.
Using centralized cloud slicing through 3DPrinterOS allows teams to standardize approved profiles, reducing variability between users and helping ensure repeatable print quality across multiple printers and locations.
If you are looking to produce waterproof parts, then you will need to use a slicer setting that is specifically designed for this purpose. There are a few different slicer settings that you can choose from, but the best one to use is the “spiralize outer contour” setting. This setting will allow your 3D printer to produce parts that have a smooth, watertight surface.
Additionally, you may also want to use a support material when printing waterproof parts. This material will help to prevent your parts from warping or deforming during the printing process.
Step-by-Step: How to Make 3D Prints Waterproof
- Choose a water-resistant filament such as PETG, ABS, or ASA.
- Increase wall thickness and perimeter count.
- Optimize extrusion temperature for stronger layer bonding.
- Reduce print speed if necessary.
- Inspect for visible defects and gaps.
- Apply a waterproof coating or sealant.
- Allow coatings to fully cure.
- Test the part before final use.
Many waterproof components require extended print times because of thicker walls, higher infill percentages, and increased perimeter counts. Remote monitoring tools from 3DPrinterOS help users track print progress and identify issues early, reducing wasted material and machine time during lengthy production runs.
Image Source: https://app.arcade.software/share/YoHirkjgmLmkYcK2u6NI?ref=share-link or https://www.3dprinteros.com/remote-3d-printing
Post-processing techniques
Post-processing techniques are often the most effective way to achieve a truly waterproof 3D print.
Acetone Vapor Smoothing
Acetone vapor smoothing works particularly well for ABS prints by dissolving and sealing outer layer imperfections.
Epoxy Coating
Epoxy resin remains one of the most effective 3D print waterproof coating solutions available. Once cured, it forms a durable waterproof barrier suitable for containers, outdoor products, and functional components.
Wax Dipping
Wax dipping fills pores and surface gaps, creating a temporary waterproof barrier that can be useful for specific applications.
Appropriate uses for waterproof 3D printed parts
3D printers have shown great promise in the creation of waterproof parts. This technology can be used to create everything from seals and gaskets to medical implants and prosthetics. On the “less-critical” end of the spectrum you’ll find soap dishes, bath toys, cups, vases; but other uses include gaskets, seals, and O-rings. Custom shaped spouts, nozzles and end caps could all be made using 3D printing, as can impellers, shaft seals and grommets.
In addition, 3D-printed parts can be used in outdoor applications such as fountains and rain gutters. With the ability to withstand exposure to water, 3D-printed parts are helping to open up new possibilities for this versatile technology – take a look at these 3D printed faucets, that seem to make water appear from nowhere!
Many people still think of 3D printing only as a way to create prototypes or small trinkets. However, 3D printers are also capable of creating functional waterproof parts for everything from industrial uses to interior design.
Common Applications for Waterproof 3D Printed Parts
Fortune Business Insights estimates that the global 3D printing market will grow from $29.29 billion in 2026 to $134.58 billion by 2034, driven by increasing use across manufacturing, engineering, healthcare, and industrial production. As these applications expand, waterproof and watertight components are becoming increasingly valuable in real-world operating environments.
Waterproof and watertight components are increasingly used for:
- Plumbing fixtures
- Fluid containers
- Outdoor products
- Rainwater management systems
- Protective enclosures
- Gaskets and seals
- Marine accessories
- Industrial tooling
As material science and printing technologies continue to improve, the range of practical waterproof applications continues to expand.
Common Mistakes When Waterproofing 3D Prints
Common mistakes include:
- Using thin walls
- Low perimeter counts
- Poor layer adhesion
- Choosing PLA for continuous outdoor water exposure
- Skipping post-processing
- Confusing waterproof and watertight requirements
Avoiding these issues can dramatically improve the lifespan and reliability of waterproof printed parts.
Final Thoughts on Waterproofing 3D Prints
Waterproofing 3D prints requires a combination of proper material selection, optimized print settings, and effective post-processing techniques. While PETG, ABS, and ASA are among the best materials for water-resistant applications, achieving a fully watertight part often requires additional sealing through epoxy coatings, UV resin, or other finishing methods.
As additive manufacturing continues to evolve, waterproof and watertight 3D printed components are becoming increasingly viable for engineering, manufacturing, outdoor products, plumbing applications, and custom functional parts.
For organizations managing multiple users and printers, maintaining consistency across these variables can be challenging. 3DPrinterOS helps educational institutions, makerspaces, engineering teams, and enterprises standardize workflows through cloud slicing, remote monitoring, printer management, and centralized user controls.
Book a Demo to see how 3DPrinterOS helps organizations simplify printer management, standardize production workflows, and improve consistency across functional 3D printing projects.
