Good tips for handling a phone stuck in water

Step 2: Dry the Exterior

Once the phone is out of the water, dry the exterior thoroughly:

1. Wipe the Phone Down: Use a lint-free towel or cloth to gently blot the exterior of the phone. Avoid wiping, as this can push water into the device, especially around the buttons, ports, and screen edges.
2. Avoid Using Heat Sources: Don’t use a hairdryer, oven, or any other heat sources to dry your phone. High temperatures can cause further damage to the phone’s delicate components, including the screen and battery.

Step 3: Dry the Internal Components (Optional)

If you’re comfortable with disassembling your phone (or if it’s an old device), you can remove the battery to prevent any potential short circuiting. If you don’t feel confident doing this, it’s best to skip this step and leave it to the professionals.

Step 4: Use a Desiccant (Rice is Not Your Best Option)

Many people have heard the “rice trick”—placing the phone in a bowl of rice to absorb moisture—but there’s a better way:

1. Use Silica Gel or a Desiccant Pack: Instead of rice, it’s more effective to use silica gel packets, which are designed to absorb moisture. You can find these packets in boxes of shoes, electronics, and other products. Seal your phone and the packets in an airtight bag or container for 24-48 hours. This method is much more effective than rice at absorbing moisture from the device.
2. Avoid Submerging in Rice: If silica gel isn’t available, rice can be used as a last resort. However, it’s not the best method because it’s less effective and might leave dust or grains inside your phone.

Step 5: Wait and Be Patient

After placing your phone in a desiccant (or rice), it’s crucial to wait. Patience is key—do not be tempted to check if the phone works by turning it on too soon. Even if the phone looks dry on the outside, moisture may still be trapped inside. It’s recommended to leave your phone in the drying environment for at least 24 to 48 hours.

Step 6: Try Turning the Phone On

Once you’ve waited long enough (usually 24-48 hours), it’s time to check if your phone has dried out completely. Try turning it on. If it powers up and works normally, congratulations! If not, it may be time to seek professional help.

Step 7: Seek Professional Help If Needed

If your phone doesn’t turn on after drying, or if you notice any functionality issues (like a malfunctioning screen, sound problems, or a blank display), take it to a professional repair service. They can open your phone, clean out any moisture, and check for internal damage.

Things You Should NOT Do:

1. Don’t Shake the Phone: While it may seem intuitive to shake out the water, shaking your phone can actually push water deeper into the device, making the damage worse.
2. Don’t Plug It Into a Charger: Never plug your phone into a charger while it’s wet. Doing so can cause an electrical short and permanently damage the device.
3. Don’t Try to Use It: Resist the urge to check your phone immediately after it’s been in water. Using it while it’s wet can short out circuits, causing irreparable harm.
4. Avoid Using Unapproved Drying Methods: Things like ovens, microwaves, or hairdryers on high heat can warp or burn your phone. Stick to natural drying methods.

Final Thoughts

Accidentally dropping your phone in water can feel like a nightmare, but with the right approach, it’s possible to save it from water damage. Acting quickly, drying it thoroughly, and using desiccants are key steps to minimize the chances of permanent damage. While not every phone can survive a water incident, these tips significantly increase your odds of a successful recovery.

If all else fails, professional technicians are available to assist in reviving your device. Remember, prevention is key—consider investing in a waterproof case or being more mindful of your phone’s proximity to water sources to avoid a similar situation in the future.