If your phone accidentally gets wet—whether dropped in water or caught in the rain—your first move can make the difference between saving it or ruining it. Many people still believe the common myth of burying the phone in rice, but that can actually make things worse. Rice doesn’t dry a phone effectively and can leave dust or particles inside the ports, causing further damage.
Smart people follow these steps instead:
- Turn off the phone immediately – Do not press buttons or charge it.
- Remove the case, SIM card, and SD card, if possible.
- Gently shake out excess water from the charging port, speaker, and headphone jack.
- Dry the outside completely with a soft, absorbent cloth or paper towel.
- Place the phone in a sealed container with silica gel packets (the kind you find in new bags or shoe boxes). These absorb moisture far more effectively than rice. If silica gel isn’t available, a fan or dry air circulation can help.
Let the phone sit for at least 24–48 hours, then try powering it on. Avoid using heat sources like a hair dryer or microwave—they can permanently damage internal components. For saltwater exposure (like dropping it in the ocean), rinse the phone gently with clean water before drying, since salt can corrode parts quickly.
Disclaimer: These tips are based on general guidance. If your phone doesn’t recover or shows glitches after drying, consult a certified technician for professional repair or diagnostics.