What to Do If You Drop Your Phone in Water: Essential Tips to Save Your Device

Summer means fun in the sun, beach vacations, and poolside lounging. But what happens when that fun takes a dive and your phone gets wet? A waterlogged phone can lead to a costly trip to the repair shop, especially if you don’t act quickly. While many smartphones boast water-resistant features, they’re often not waterproof. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to do if your phone takes an unexpected splash and how you might save it from damage.

Act Fast: Time Is of the Essence

The first thing to remember is that every second counts after your phone has been submerged in water. Manufacturers emphasize that the quicker you remove the device from the water, the better your chances of recovering it. According to a 2014 study by Gazelle, a company specializing in used and broken phones, phone model does play a role in water resistance. Generally, Android phones tend to withstand water better than iPhones, but this doesn’t mean that you’re in the clear just because you own one.

Manufacturer Guidelines: Apple and Samsung

Both Apple and Samsung, two of the biggest players in the smartphone market, offer specific guidance for handling water-damaged devices.

Apple’s Steps for iPhones

If your iPhone comes into contact with water:

1. Turn it Off Immediately: After removing it from the water, power it down.
2. Dry Off: Use a soft, lint-free cloth to dry the exterior.
3. Get Rid of Excess Water: Gently tap the phone with the charging port facing down to remove any water trapped inside.
4. Let It Air Dry: Position the phone in a well-ventilated area for at least five hours. Pointing a fan at the charging port can help speed up the process.

Note that Apple advises against putting your phone in rice, as tiny particles can cause additional damage.

Samsung’s Approach for Galaxy Devices

Samsung’s approach is similar:

1. Immediate Shutdown: Turn off the phone and dry it with a clean towel.
2. Air Dry: Place the device in a well-ventilated area or shaded spot with cool air. While Samsung doesn’t specify a drying time, it indicates that even after following these steps, moisture may still linger.

Both manufacturers warn that if your device has been submerged in other liquids, such as soda or pool water, it’s crucial to rinse it under tap water before drying it off.

Using Silica Gel Beads: An Effective Drying Method

For an extra layer of protection, consider using silica gel beads. These beads absorb moisture much more effectively than rice. Many products come packed with these beads, often labeled with a “Do not eat” tag. You can also purchase them online.

To use silica gel:

1. Dry the Phone Exterior: After removing it from the water, wipe the phone down with a lint-free cloth.
2. Encapsulate with Silica: Place your phone in a large, sealed container filled with silica gel beads, ensuring that it’s completely surrounded.
3. Wait Patiently: Allow the device to sit for at least 72 hours for maximum moisture absorption.

Household Alternatives to Silica Gel

If you don’t have silica gel on hand, you can try other household items as potential drying agents:

• Couscous
• Instant Rice

Follow the same steps as above, substituting silica gel with your chosen alternative. However, avoid using items like conventional cat litter, uncooked rice, or oats, as they can leave behind debris that may damage your phone.

Conclusion: Preventing Future Mishaps

In closing, the best way to protect your phone from water—you’ve guessed it— is prevention. If you’ve already experienced a close call, remember that swift action is your best ally. Understanding the recommendations from manufacturers like Apple and Samsung can help mitigate damage effectively.

While there’s no guaranteed method to revive a waterlogged phone, these tips may just save you from an expensive repair. For further tips and tricks on smartphone usage, check out our articles on Android permissions and how to get two days out of a single iPhone charge!

Stay dry, and enjoy your summer adventures without the worry of a soggy smartphone!