What to Do If Your Phone Has Water Damage
If your phone has water damage, acting quickly can be the difference between saving it or losing it entirely. Here’s a step-by-step guide from a tech guru's point of view.
Step 1: Turn it OFF Immediately
Do not press any buttons.
Power down the phone to avoid short circuits.
If the phone is already off, do not attempt to turn it back on.
Step 2: Remove External Components
Take off any case or screen protector.
Remove the SIM card and SD card (if applicable).
Do not plug it into a charger or computer.
Step 3: Dry the Outside
Use a lint-free towel or microfiber cloth to gently dry the exterior.
If water got into charging ports, speakers, or mic holes:
Tilt the phone gently to let water drain outward.
Do not blow into the ports (can push water deeper).
Avoid using heat sources like hair dryers — heat can warp internal parts.
Step 4: Air Dry or Use a Vacuum
If available, use a small electronics-safe vacuum to gently pull water from the ports.
Otherwise, place the phone in front of a fan or in a dry area with good airflow.
Step 5: Skip the Rice Myth
Uncooked rice is not recommended anymore, especially if the device is an iPhone :
It doesn’t absorb moisture fast enough.
Dust and particles from rice can damage the ports.
Step 6: Use Silica Gel Packs (if available)
If you have silica gel packets (the kind found in shoeboxes or electronics packaging), place the phone in a sealed container or bag with them.
Let it sit for 24 to 72 hours.
Step 7: Wait — Don’t Rush
The longer you wait (ideally 48–72 hours), the better the chance that internal components dry completely.
Do not attempt to turn it on too soon.
Step 8: Test After Drying Period
After at least 48 hours, attempt to turn it on.
If it powers on:
Test sound, touchscreen, cameras, Wi-Fi, and charging.
If it doesn’t:
Do not keep trying — this may damage the motherboard further.
Step 9: Seek Professional Help
If the phone doesn't power on or acts erratically:
Take it to a reputable repair technician.
Ask if a water damage diagnostic or ultrasonic cleaning is available.
Next Time: Be Prepared
Consider investing in a waterproof phone pouch for outdoor activities.
Regularly back up your phone to iCloud/Google Drive.
Add a moisture indicator sticker or use waterproofing nano-coating (some phone cases offer this).
