Posted on October 17th, 2025.

You’re relaxing by the pool or enjoying a rainy afternoon when suddenly—splash—your phone hits the water. That instant panic is familiar to anyone who’s ever watched their device sink beneath the surface. While the shock is real, your response in the next few moments matters more than anything else.

Acting fast and following the right steps can mean the difference between saving your phone and losing it for good. Preparedness is your greatest advantage, and knowing exactly what to do before disaster strikes can keep a minor mishap from becoming a major headache.

Your phone isn’t just a gadget—it’s your lifeline. It holds photos, contacts, and connections that make daily life easier. That’s why water damage feels so stressful. But even when it seems hopeless, the truth is that quick, careful action can often turn things around. Timing is everything, and remaining calm is key. Every second counts, but rushing the wrong way can do more harm than good.

Fortunately, the right combination of fast action, patience, and professional support can restore your device to full function. Whether it’s a quick dip or total submersion, knowing what works—and what doesn’t—can make all the difference. Below, you’ll learn exactly how to handle a soaked phone, avoid costly mistakes, and protect your device’s future performance.

Immediate Actions to Take

When your phone takes an unexpected dive, your first move should always be to power it off immediately. Water and electricity don’t mix, and leaving your phone on can cause short circuits within seconds. Press and hold the power button until it shuts down completely. Don’t wait to see if it still works—every moment it stays on increases the chance of permanent internal damage. Shutting it off gives your device the best shot at survival.

Next, remove your phone from the water and take off any case, cover, or screen protector. These accessories trap moisture, preventing your phone from drying properly. By removing them, you expose the surface to air and give moisture an escape route. Gently wipe off visible water with a soft, absorbent cloth or paper towel, being careful not to push droplets into any ports or seams.

Once you’ve handled the exterior, remove the SIM card, memory card, and any connected accessories such as chargers or earbuds. These areas are highly vulnerable to moisture buildup and corrosion. By removing them early, you prevent electrical contact and allow faster drying. Keep these pieces on a separate dry surface so they don’t reintroduce moisture later.

After disassembling what you safely can, focus on positioning. Place your phone upright on a clean towel to help drain internal water. Avoid tilting or shaking it aggressively, as that can push liquid deeper inside. Gravity will do the work if you give it time.

Lastly, resist the temptation to check whether it still turns on. Powering it back up prematurely could short-circuit internal components. Instead, set your phone aside in a dry, cool area and prepare for the next step: careful, thorough drying.

Drying Techniques You Can Trust

Once your phone is safely powered off and free of accessories, drying becomes your main focus. Start by using a microfiber or lint-free cloth to gently remove visible moisture. Pay close attention to areas like charging ports, headphone jacks, and button edges. Wipe softly—vigorous rubbing can push water into the phone instead of removing it. Patience and precision are your allies here.

Forget the popular “bowl of rice” method—it’s a myth. While rice can absorb surface moisture, it doesn’t effectively reach water trapped inside the phone. Worse, tiny rice particles or dust can lodge themselves in ports, causing new problems later. Instead, turn to silica gel packets, which are specifically made to absorb humidity. You’ll find them in shoe boxes, electronics packaging, or online. Place your phone in an airtight container with several packets and leave it sealed for 48 to 72 hours.

If silica packets aren’t available, use a purpose-built electronic drying kit. These kits contain materials designed to extract moisture safely without introducing dust or debris. They’re reusable and a great investment if you live near water or frequently use your phone outdoors. These kits are faster and far more effective than homemade alternatives.

Air drying also works well when done correctly. Place your phone in a well-ventilated area on a dry towel and let it rest for several days. Avoid direct sunlight or artificial heat. It’s tempting to grab a hair dryer, but hot air can warp internal parts or melt adhesives. Instead, rely on steady, natural airflow. A small desk fan placed a few feet away can gently circulate air around the device for faster drying.

When you think your phone is dry, inspect it carefully before turning it on. Look for condensation under the screen or in camera lenses. If any trace of moisture remains, extend the drying period another 24 hours. Rushing this step is one of the biggest reasons devices fail after apparent recovery. Once you’re confident it’s dry, plug it in and power it on. If it still shows signs of malfunction, stop using it immediately—professional repair might be your best next move.

What to Avoid for Your Phone's Safety

Knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing what to do. One of the biggest mistakes is powering your phone back on too soon. Even minimal moisture can cause short circuits that permanently damage the motherboard. Always err on the side of caution—wait at least two to three full days before testing it.

Avoid using heat-based drying methods, such as hair dryers, ovens, or space heaters. High heat can warp your phone’s casing, damage internal solder, and destroy the battery. Likewise, never place your phone directly in the sun; extended exposure can cause thermal stress and make existing damage worse. The same goes for compressed air—it may seem like a good idea, but the pressure can force water deeper into delicate components.

Steer clear of “quick-fix” home remedies or unverified internet hacks. Many of these suggestions—like using uncooked rice, alcohol sprays, or vacuum cleaners—can cause more harm than good. Alcohol can corrode circuits, and vacuums often create static electricity that damages electronic parts. Stick to proven drying agents and gentle handling.

Another common misstep is plugging in your phone while it’s still drying. Charging introduces electricity into circuits that may still be damp, leading to irreversible failure. Even if it powers on, unseen corrosion can slowly deteriorate performance over time. If your phone was submerged in saltwater, it’s especially important to seek professional care since salt accelerates corrosion.

Lastly, don’t overlook professional help when it’s warranted. If your phone doesn’t respond after several days of careful drying—or if you notice distortion, discoloration, or overheating—let experts step in. Water damage can be deceptive, and professionals have the tools to safely open and clean your device without making things worse.

By avoiding these common pitfalls, you not only increase your chances of saving your phone but also preserve its long-term reliability. Smart restraint and informed patience are your best defense against permanent damage.

Related: Should You Repair Your Cracked Screen Or Get A New Phone?

Protect, Repair, and Restore with Phone Repair AZ

Water damage doesn’t have to spell the end for your phone. Acting quickly, drying carefully, and avoiding risky shortcuts give your device the best shot at recovery. But when at-home methods aren’t enough, it’s time to call in professionals who know exactly how to restore your phone safely and effectively.

At Phone Repair AZ, we specialize in diagnosing and repairing water-damaged smartphones with precision and care. Our technicians use advanced, eco-friendly cleaning and restoration techniques that protect delicate components while bringing your device back to life. Whether it’s an iPhone or Android, our expert team understands what it takes to revive your tech.

Don’t let water damage end your phone’s life — Visit Phone Repair AZ’s iPhone Repair Service!

Contact us at (520) 247-8682 or [email protected] for expert care.