Oops! Your Phone Fell in Water? Here's What to Do (and What Not to Do)

Accidents happen, and one common mishap is dropping your phone into water. Whether it's a sink, toilet, or puddle, the panic of a water-damaged phone can be overwhelming. However, knowing the right steps to take can significantly increase the chances of saving your device. In this blog post, we'll explore what you should do and what you shouldn't do when your phone takes an unexpected dive into water.

What to Do:

1. Act Quickly:

Time is of the essence when dealing with water damage. Retrieve your phone from the water as soon as possible to minimize potential damage.

2. Power Off the Device:

Immediately power off your phone to prevent any short circuits or further damage. If the screen is unresponsive, hold down the power button until it shuts off.

3. Dry the Exterior:

Use a clean, absorbent cloth or towel to gently dry the exterior of the phone. Ensure you remove any visible water from the surfaces.

4. Remove Excess Moisture:

If possible, remove the phone's battery, SIM card, and memory card (if applicable). Wipe them dry and set them aside separately.

5. Absorb Remaining Moisture:

Place your phone in a bowl or bag of uncooked rice, silica gel packets, or a dedicated moisture-absorbing pouch. These materials help draw out moisture from the device over time. Leave it in for at least 24-48 hours.

6. Seek Professional Help:

If your phone doesn't turn on or exhibits unusual behavior after drying, it's best to take it to a professional repair service or contact the manufacturer for assistance.

What Not to Do:

1. Do Not Panic:

While dropping your phone in water can be stressful, panicking won't help the situation. Stay calm and focus on the necessary steps to minimize damage.

2. Avoid Using Heat Sources:

Do not attempt to dry your phone using a hairdryer, oven, microwave, or any other direct heat source. Excessive heat can cause internal damage to the components.

3. Resist the Urge to Test:

Avoid turning on your phone immediately after drying it. This could cause a short circuit and further damage. Patience is key in allowing the moisture to be fully absorbed.

4. Do Not Shake or Tap:

Shaking or tapping the phone may cause the water to move deeper into the device or damage delicate internal parts. It's best to let gravity and the moisture-absorbing materials do their work.

5. Avoid Excessive Handling:

Refrain from continuously pressing buttons, plugging in charging cables, or attempting to disassemble the phone yourself. These actions can potentially worsen the situation.

Conclusion:

Accidentally dropping your phone in water can be a nerve-wracking experience, but acting promptly and following the right steps can increase the chances of saving it from water damage. Remember to act quickly, power off the device, dry the exterior, remove excess moisture, absorb remaining moisture with appropriate materials, and seek professional help if needed. Conversely, avoid panic, heat sources, testing the phone immediately, shaking or tapping, and excessive handling. By following these guidelines, you give your phone the best chance of recovery and minimize potential damage caused by water immersion.