We’ve all been there—a phone slipping into the sink, a spilled drink, or an accidental drop in the pool. Water damage is one of the most dreaded problems for any smartphone owner, but it doesn’t always mean your device is ruined. If you act quickly and follow the right steps, there’s a good chance you can save your phone.
Here’s exactly what to do if your phone gets wet—before you panic.
Step 1: Get It Out of the Water Immediately
The moment your phone falls into water, pick it up as quickly as possible. The longer it stays submerged, the greater the risk of permanent damage. Time is critical here—every second counts.
If it’s plugged into a charger, unplug it carefully first. Water and electricity don’t mix, and this can be dangerous.
Step 2: Power It Off
Once you’ve retrieved your phone, turn it off immediately. Holding the power button and shutting it down prevents electrical components from short-circuiting. Don’t try to check if it’s still working; the less activity inside the phone, the better.
If your phone won’t turn off normally, leave it alone—don’t force anything.
Step 3: Remove Any Accessories
Take off any cases, screen protectors, or attached accessories. These can trap water against your phone, making it harder for the device to dry. If your phone has a removable battery, SIM card, or memory card, take those out as well. This allows water to escape more easily and reduces the risk of further damage to these components.
Step 4: Wipe It Down
Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently dry the phone’s exterior. Focus on the screen, ports, buttons, and crevices where water might be trapped. Be gentle—you don’t want to push water further into the phone.
Avoid shaking the phone to get water out; this can spread the liquid to other components.
Step 5: Skip the Rice Myth
You’ve probably heard that putting a water-damaged phone in a bowl of rice can fix it. While rice can absorb some moisture, it’s not the best solution. Rice particles can get stuck in your phone’s ports, and it doesn’t effectively reach water trapped deep inside the device.
Instead, use silica gel packets (the little packets that come with shoes or electronics). These are far more effective at absorbing moisture.
Step 6: Let It Dry Naturally
Place your phone in a dry, well-ventilated area. You can prop it up so water drains out of the ports. Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources like hairdryers or ovens, which can damage delicate components or warp the phone’s housing.
If you have a small fan, use it to blow cool air around the phone. This helps speed up the drying process without adding heat.
Step 7: Resist the Urge to Turn It On
It’s tempting to check if your phone still works, but turning it on too soon can cause a short circuit. Let your phone dry completely for at least 24-48 hours before powering it on. If you’re unsure, it’s better to wait longer.
Step 8: Seek Professional Help
If you’ve followed all these steps and your phone still doesn’t work—or if you want to ensure it’s fully safe—bring it to a repair shop. Professional technicians have the tools and expertise to open your phone, dry out the internal components, and replace any damaged parts.
At Fixanrepair, we handle water-damaged phones all the time. We use specialized drying equipment and diagnostic tools to assess the damage and restore your phone to working condition.
What NOT to Do with a Water-Damaged Phone
To avoid making the problem worse, steer clear of these common mistakes:
- Don’t Use Heat: Hairdryers, ovens, or microwaves can warp your phone or damage its internal components.
- Don’t Shake It: Shaking the phone can push water deeper into the device.
- Don’t Blow Into Ports: Your breath contains moisture, which can add to the problem.
- Don’t Skip Drying Time: Turning the phone on too soon risks short-circuiting it.
Can All Water-Damaged Phones Be Fixed?
The truth is, not all water-damaged phones can be saved. The outcome depends on several factors:
- How Long It Was Submerged: The longer it stays underwater, the higher the risk of permanent damage.
- Type of Water: Clean water (like tap water) is less damaging than saltwater or liquids with sugar, like soda or coffee. Salt and sugar can corrode internal parts faster.
- Phone Design: Water-resistant phones have a better chance of surviving, but they’re not invincible.
If you bring your phone to a repair shop quickly, the chances of recovery improve dramatically.
What Can a Repair Shop Do?
At Fixanrepair, here’s how we handle water-damaged phones:
- Thorough Inspection: We open the phone to check for water damage inside.
- Cleaning Components: We clean the internal parts to remove corrosion caused by minerals or salts in the water.
- Drying Process: Using professional drying equipment, we ensure every component is moisture-free.
- Testing and Repairs: We test all parts, replacing any that are damaged, like the battery, screen, or motherboard.
How to Prevent Water Damage in the Future
Accidents happen, but you can take steps to protect your phone from water damage:
- Use a Waterproof Case: Invest in a high-quality waterproof case, especially if you spend time near water.
- Be Mindful Around Liquids: Avoid placing your phone near drinks or sinks.
- Close Ports on Water-Resistant Phones: If your phone is water-resistant, make sure all ports and seals are properly closed.
Final Thoughts
Water damage is stressful, but it doesn’t have to be the end of your phone. Acting quickly and following the right steps can make all the difference. Remember to power it off, dry it thoroughly, and avoid common mistakes like using heat or rice. And when in doubt, trust the professionals.
At Fixanrepair, we’re here to help with any water-damaged device. Visit one of our Pittsburgh locations today, and let us bring your phone back to life!
