Here’s the Real Deal on Using Rice to Save Your Wet Phone

Spring can bring flowers and local wildlife back to your neighborhood but it can also bring a lot of rainfall. And if you drop your phone In a puddle, this might result in significant expenses for you. Even though numerous smartphones claim to be water-resistant, That doesn't imply they are waterproof. So it’s still crucial to dry out your phone. Below are several methods to remove moisture from your device following an accidental submersion or dirt exposure, and perhaps these techniques might prevent you from needing a replacement. buy a new phone .

None of these techniques are assured to be successful, and although there is substantial hearsay, there is a shortage of empirical research on this topic. The latest investigation we managed to locate was published in 2014 by Gazelle , a business that deals in both pre-owned and defective mobile devices. The research indicated that the manufacturer and specific model of a cellphone affect its potential for repair, showing that Android handsets generally have a higher success rate when it comes to returning to full functionality compared to others. iPhones .

Phone manufacturers agree that removing your phone from water as quickly as possible helps to minimize how much water comes into contact with your device. That means you have a better chance of saving your phone but don't put your phone in rice after removing it from water because that could damage it.

If you accidentally drop your phone into water, here’s how you ought to proceed. Should you adhere to these steps but find that your phone either doesn’t power up at all or starts working with problems, it would be wise to bring it to an authorized repair center where professionals might be able to assist you further.

What Apple and Samsung suggest

The top two smartphone makers offer advice should you accidentally submerge your phone in water.

Apple indicates that numerous iPhones possess resistance against splashes, water, and dust under carefully managed laboratory conditions; however, this protection does not last indefinitely. Should your iPhone come into contact with liquid, it could still be damaged. display a warning If you notice water inside your phone’s charging port, or receive such a warning, and your iPhone has been exposed to water, lotions, soaps, or similar substances, follow these steps: Apple says to do:

1. Once you have taken your iPhone out of the material, switch it off and gently pat it dry using a soft, lint-free cloth.

2. Gently tap your phone with the charging port downward to remove any extra water from inside the port.

3. Position your iPhone in a well-ventilated spot and allow it to sit for a minimum of five hours. Using a fan to direct air towards the phone’s charging port could expedite drying.

Following five hours, attempt restarting your iPhone and reconnecting it to power. Should problems persist, consider exploring the additional solutions provided in this article, or opt for bringing your device to a service center. Apple store for further assistance.

Apple also advises against placing your iPhone in rice. The company states online that doing this might cause tiny rice particles to harm your iPhone.

Samsung includes comparable guidelines for drying your phone:

1. Take your phone out of the water, switch it off, and wipe it down using a dry towel or a clean cloth.

2. Put your phone in an area with good airflow or under some shade using a fan for cooling. However, Samsung does not provide a specific duration for this process.

Samsung states that despite following these steps, water may still remain inside your phone; therefore, they recommend bringing it to a professional for further assistance. Samsung Electronics Service Center .

The companies also advise that if you accidentally submerge your phone in liquids other than pure water — such as soda or chlorinated water from pools — you should immediately wash the device with tap water before gently patting it dry with a cloth and allowing it to air-dry completely.

Both Apple and Samsung advise against using a heat source such as a hairdryer or an oven to dry out your phone. Applying excessive heat might cause damage to your device.

Silica gel beads might be helpful.

You might want to consider using silica gel. As mentioned Gazelle Silica gel beads serve as an effective solution for removing excess moisture from phones. These beads often arrive sealed within small packets marked “Do not eat,” which accompany various items when they're packaged. You might consider saving such packets from previous deliveries or purchasing additional ones via online retailers like Amazon or companies like Dry & Dry .

After your phone gets wet, follow these steps once you've obtained some silica:

1. Take your phone out of the water and switch it off.

2. Wipe the exterior of your phone using a lint-free cloth.

3. Put your mobile device inside a big jar.

4. Pour your silica gel beads into the container and then close it tightly.

5. Gazelle suggests allowing your phone to dry for 72 hours before use.

6. Take your phone out of the container and attempt to turn it on again.

Various other everyday objects could be useful.

If silica gel beads aren’t available, you might consider using other common household items. According to Gazelle, couscous and instant rice also function effectively as desiccants.

Adhere to the procedures outlined in the preceding section; however, substitute one of these alternatives instead of using silica beads. Wait for an equivalent duration before attempting to restart your device.

Gazelle also put traditional cat litter, oats, chia seeds, and uncooked white rice through testing but does not endorse these options as they can leave residue that might harm your device.

To find additional suggestions, see how Low-frequency sounds can help remove water from your phone's speakers. , How can you extend an iPhone battery life to last for two full days? and easily control your Android app permissions .