How to Save a Soaked Smartphone
We’ve all been there: one moment, your smartphone is in your hand; the next, it’s in water. Whether it’s a fall into the toilet, a slip into the pool, or an accidental coffee spill, it’s always a heart-wrenching experience. But don’t worry—your soaked smartphone isn’t necessarily a lost cause. With the right steps, you might be able to rescue it.
I’m here to share practical, tried-and-true advice on what to do (and not to do) when your phone gets wet. I’ll walk you through the process of saving a water-damaged phone and recommend two products to help protect and recover your device.
What to Do Immediately When Your Smartphone Gets Wet
1. Turn Off Your Phone Immediately
The very first thing you need to do is power down your device. Even if it seems to be functioning normally, leaving it on can lead to short circuits as water seeps into the electrical components. Press and hold the power button, and make sure it’s completely turned off.
2. Remove External and Internal Components
Quickly take off any accessories, including cases, screen protectors, headphones, or charging cables. If your phone has a removable battery, SIM card, or memory card, take them out too. This minimizes the chance of water getting trapped in hidden crevices.
3. Gently Pat the Device Dry
Use a soft, lint-free cloth (like an eyeglass cleaning cloth) to gently pat the phone dry, removing visible moisture. Be cautious not to press too hard or push water deeper into the device.
4. Drain Water Using Gravity
Hold your phone in a way that allows water to flow out naturally. For example, if water entered through the charging port, hold the phone upright with the port facing downward. Lightly shake the device, but don’t be overly aggressive.
5. Use Absorbent Materials to Dry the Device
Place your phone in a container filled with moisture-absorbing materials. While uncooked rice is a popular household remedy, it’s not the most effective. Silica gel packets (the kind you find in shoeboxes or vitamin bottles) work far better. Seal the container and let the phone sit for at least 24–48 hours.
What Not to Do When Your Smartphone Gets Wet
1. Don’t Try to Power It On
It’s tempting to check if your phone is still working, but resist the urge. Turning on a wet phone can cause irreversible damage, as the electrical current may interact with the water and fry the internal circuits.
2. Don’t Use a Hair Dryer or Heat Source
Using a hair dryer, microwave, or any other heat source to dry your phone is a big no-no. Heat can damage the phone’s delicate components, warp the casing, or even melt some parts.
3. Don’t Shake or Bang the Phone
While gently draining water is helpful, forcefully shaking or hitting the phone can make the problem worse. You risk pushing water deeper into the sensitive parts, such as the microphone, speaker, or camera lens.
4. Don’t Give Up Too Quickly
Even if your phone looks beyond repair, don’t lose hope just yet. With the right tools and methods, many water-damaged devices can be restored to full functionality.
Steps to Take After Successfully Saving Your Phone
1. Test All Functions
Once your phone appears completely dry, turn it on and test all its features. Check the touchscreen, camera, microphone, speaker, and charging port. If you notice any issues, consider consulting a professional repair service.
2. Clean the Device
If your phone was submerged in dirty or salty water, cleaning is essential. Use a disinfectant wipe or a small amount of isopropyl alcohol to sanitize the surface and ports. This prevents residue buildup and corrosion.
3. Backup Your Data
Even if your phone seems fine, water exposure can cause long-term issues. Backup your important data as soon as possible to avoid losing valuable information in case the device fails later.
How to Prevent Water Damage to Your Smartphone
1. Invest in a Waterproof Case
A high-quality waterproof phone case is your best defense against accidental water damage. These cases provide complete protection, making your phone safe for outdoor adventures, rainy days, or beach trips.
2. Be Mindful of Your Phone Around Water
Accidents often happen in places like the bathroom, kitchen, or pool. Be extra cautious when using your phone near water, and try to keep it at a safe distance from potential spills or splashes.
3. Know Your Phone’s Waterproof Rating
Many modern smartphones come with an IP (Ingress Protection) rating. For instance, an IP68 rating means the device can withstand submersion in a certain depth of water for a specific amount of time. Understanding your phone’s waterproof capabilities helps you make informed decisions about how to use and protect it.
Recommended Products for Preventing and Recovering from Water Damage
1. LifeProof FRĒ Waterproof Case
This top-rated waterproof case is compatible with various smartphone models and offers excellent protection against water, dust, and drops. It’s perfect for adventurous users who need their phones to survive in tough conditions.
2. ThirstyBag Waterproof Emergency Kit
Designed specifically for saving water-damaged devices, ThirstyBag contains powerful desiccants that efficiently absorb moisture. It’s a significant upgrade from using rice and can make all the difference when disaster strikes.
Dealing with a water-damaged smartphone can be stressful, but with the right approach, there’s a good chance you can salvage it. Remember to act quickly, avoid common mistakes, and take preventive measures to minimize future risks.
