How Do You Get Water Out Your Phone?

Here's how to try and get water out of your phone to minimize potential damage:

1. Act Quickly: The faster you act, the better the chances of saving your phone.

2. Power Off Immediately: Do not attempt to use your phone. Holding the power button until it completely shuts down is crucial. Do not turn it back on to check if it works. This can cause short circuits.

3. Remove External Components:

   • Take off the phone case.
   • Remove the SIM card tray and SIM card.
   • If possible and safe, remove the battery. (Note: Most modern phones have non-removable batteries, so avoid attempting this if you're unsure how to do it safely.)

4. Dry the Exterior: Use a clean, soft cloth (like a microfiber cloth) to thoroughly dry the outside of the phone. Pay special attention to ports, buttons, and crevices.

5. Attempt to Remove Excess Water: Gently shake the phone with the ports facing down to try and dislodge any trapped water.

6. Use Absorbent Materials:

   • Silica Gel Packets: The best option is to place the phone in an airtight container or bag filled with silica gel packets (the kind that come in new shoes or electronics). These are highly effective at absorbing moisture. Leave it for at least 48-72 hours.
   • Uncooked Rice (Less Ideal): If you don't have silica gel, uncooked rice can be used as a less effective alternative. Bury the phone completely in a container of uncooked rice for at least 48-72 hours. Be aware that rice dust can potentially cause further damage.

7. Avoid Heat: Do not use a hairdryer, oven, or microwave to dry your phone. Heat can damage the phone's internal components.

8. Patience is Key: After the drying period, try turning your phone on. If it doesn't turn on, try charging it for at least 30 minutes before attempting to power it on again.

9. Consider Professional Help: If your phone still doesn't work after these steps, or if you suspect significant water damage, take it to a professional phone repair service. They have specialized equipment to clean and repair water-damaged devices.

Why These Steps Work:

The goal is to stop electricity flowing while water is present (causing short circuits and corrosion) and to remove the water as quickly and thoroughly as possible before it causes permanent damage. Silica gel and rice act as desiccants, absorbing moisture from the air and drawing it away from the phone.

Important Considerations:

• Liquid Damage Indicators (LDIs): Many phones have internal LDIs that change color when exposed to water. Repair technicians can use these to determine if water damage is present.
• Corrosion: Even if your phone appears to be working after getting wet, corrosion can still occur over time. It's a good idea to have it inspected by a professional.