Smartphones are an essential part of daily life, but accidents happen—especially when it comes to water damage. Whether you’ve dropped your phone in a sink, spilled a drink on it, or even taken an unexpected swim with it in your pocket, a wet phone can be a nightmare. However, quick and correct action can increase the chances of saving your device.
In this article, we’ll cover five expert tips to help you rescue your phone from water damage.
Understanding Water Damage in Phones
Water is one of the biggest enemies of electronic devices. When it seeps inside a phone, it can cause short circuits, corrosion, and malfunctioning components. While modern smartphones often come with water-resistant ratings (such as IP67 or IP68), they are not entirely waterproof and can still suffer damage if exposed to excessive moisture.
5 Signs of Water Damage Phone
Before trying to fix your wet phone, check for the following signs of water damage:
- Screen flickering or not responding
- Distorted sound from the speaker or microphone issues
- Overheating
- Random shutdowns or restarts
- Visible moisture under the screen or camera lens
Now, let’s dive into the five professional tips to save your phone from water damage.
1. Turn Off the Phone Immediately
The first and most important step is to power off your phone right away. If water gets inside and the phone remains on, it can short-circuit the internal components, leading to permanent damage.
What You Should Do
✅ Press and hold the power button to shut it down.
✅ If the phone has a removable battery, take it out.
✅ Do not press any other buttons, as this could push water further inside.
What You Should NOT Do
❌ Do not try to check if the phone is still working.
❌ Do not charge the phone or connect it to any cables.
❌ Do not use heat sources like a hairdryer.
2. Remove All Accessories and Dry the Exterior
Once your phone is turned off, carefully remove any accessories. Water can get trapped in small openings, making it harder to dry.
Steps to Follow
✅ Take off the phone case, SIM card, memory card, and any external attachments.
✅ Use a soft, lint-free cloth or paper towel to gently wipe off visible water.
✅ Hold the phone upright to prevent water from spreading inside.
3. Use the Right Drying Method
After removing surface water, the next step is to dry the interior. Many people believe that putting a wet phone in rice works, but this is not the best method. Instead, follow these expert recommendations.
Best Drying Techniques
✅ Silica Gel Packets – These are commonly found in shoeboxes and electronics packaging. Place the phone in a sealed bag with silica gel for at least 24–48 hours.
✅ Vacuum Sealing – If available, use a vacuum-sealing bag to suck out moisture.
✅ Ventilated Area – Place the phone in a dry, cool place with good airflow.
What to Avoid
❌ Do not use a hairdryer, oven, or microwave, as heat can damage the phone’s components.
❌ Do not shake or blow into ports, as this can push water deeper inside.
4. Wait Before Turning It Back On
Patience is key when dealing with a wet phone. Even if the phone looks dry on the outside, moisture might still be trapped inside.
How Long Should You Wait?
🔹 A minimum of 24 hours is recommended, but waiting 48 hours is safer.
🔹 If you used silica gel or another drying method, check the phone’s condition before attempting to turn it on.
Testing Your Phone
After waiting:
✅ Insert the battery (if removable) and power it on.
✅ Check for sound, screen responsiveness, and charging functionality.
✅ If the phone doesn’t turn on, try charging it with a dry and undamaged charger.
If your phone still does not work, move on to the next step.
5. Seek Professional Help If Needed
If your phone does not turn on or works erratically after drying, it’s time to seek expert repair services.
When to Visit a Repair Center?
- If the phone screen flickers or shows unusual colors
- If the battery drains abnormally fast
- If you notice a burning smell when charging
- If buttons, speakers, or the camera stop functioning properly
Most repair shops offer liquid damage treatments, including cleaning corrosion from the internal components.
Preventing Future Water Damage
While accidents happen, here are some ways to protect your phone from water exposure:
✅ Use a Waterproof Case – Ideal for outdoor activities and rainy weather.
✅ Keep Your Phone Away from Water Sources – Avoid placing your phone near sinks, pools, or drinks.
✅ Get a Waterproof Pouch – Perfect for beach trips and rainy seasons.
✅ Check Water Resistance Ratings – If your phone has an IP67 or IP68 rating, it can withstand brief exposure, but not deep or prolonged immersion.
Final Thoughts
A wet phone does not always mean the end of its life. By acting quickly and following the right steps, you can save your device from permanent damage. Remember:
- Turn off the phone immediately to prevent short circuits.
- Remove accessories and dry the exterior carefully.
- Use effective drying techniques like silica gel or a ventilated space.
- Wait at least 24-48 hours before turning it back on.
- If the phone does not work properly, seek professional repair services.
By taking these precautions and following expert advice, you can increase the chances of rescuing your phone after water exposure. Stay prepared and keep your device safe!
