Dropped Your Phone in Water? Here’s What to Do to Save It!

So, you dropped your phone in water. Whether it was a quick dip in the sink, a tumble into the pool, or you've dropped it down the bog. Don’t panic - you’re not the first (and you certainly won’t be the last), I had one last week which they kindly mentioned AFTER placing the phone in my hand, that it had been in the toilet 🥲

The key is to act quickly and carefully to give your phone the best chance of survival. Here’s a guide to help you rescue your device and, hopefully, avoid an expensive replacement (although, we're here if you need one!).

 

Step 1: Get It Out of the Water. Now.

First things first, get your phone out of the water as fast as you can. The longer it sits submerged, the higher the risk of severe internal damage. Even if you’re in a bit of shock, every second counts here.

 

Step 2: Power It Off Immediately

Turning your phone off is critical. I know the temptation to check if it’s still working is strong, but resist! Water and electricity don’t mix well, and if there’s any moisture inside, powering up could lead to a short circuit. So, power it down and resist the urge to “just check.”

 

Step 3: Remove Everything Detachable

Take off the case, remove the SIM card, memory card, and anything else that can be safely removed. This gives the phone a better chance to dry out internally. If it’s in a case, it’s even more important to get that off since cases can trap moisture against the device.

 

Step 4: Dry It Gently

Grab a clean, dry cloth or paper towel and carefully pat your phone dry. Avoid shaking it - I know it’s tempting, but shaking the phone can push water deeper into places it doesn’t belong. Just pat it down and get rid of as much surface water as possible.

 

Step 5: Skip the Rice (Seriously)

We’ve all heard the “stick it in rice” trick, right? But here’s the thing: rice might absorb some moisture, but it’s not the magic cure we’ve been led to believe. Plus, rice can leave dust and tiny particles inside your phone, which can cause even more issues down the line.

 

Step 6: Use Silica Gel (If You Have It)

If you’ve got those little silica gel packets lying around from old shoe boxes or electronics packaging, now’s their time to shine. Silica gel absorbs moisture way better than rice. Place your phone in an airtight container with a few packets and leave it there for 24-48 hours.

 

Step 7: Let It Air Dry (And Be Patient)

If silica gel isn’t an option, leave your phone in a dry place for at least a day or two. Patience is key here—don’t try to turn it on too soon. Think of this as the "recovery period" for your phone. The longer you wait, the better chance you give it to dry out completely.

 

Step 8: When to Get Professional Help

Even if your phone seems to work fine, water damage can cause issues over time. If you notice any strange behaviours - like screen flickering, unresponsive buttons, or charging problems - it’s best to bring it to a pro.

If you purchased your phone from us, we'd be happy to lend a hand. We know what to look for in cases of water damage. Sometimes, a quick inspection can save you from bigger (and more expensive) problems later on.

A technician can strip down the phone and fully clean it to ensure there are no minerals or particles from the water that could dry up and damage the board. If you act quickly, this process might just save your phone!

 

Prevention Tips for the Future

Now that you’ve had your scare, it’s worth thinking about prevention. Waterproof cases can be a lifesaver if you’re prone to accidents around water. Also consider upgrading to a water-resistant model if it’s within your budget - just for the peace of mind! 

 

Final Thoughts

Water accidents happen, and they’re never fun. But with these steps, you can at least give your phone a fighting chance. And if you ever need a hand or have more questions, our team is just a call or click away. We’re here to keep your tech running smoothly - no matter what life throws at it (or what you accidentally drop it into!).