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What to Do If Your Phone Falls in Water: A Step-by-Step Rescue Guide

What to Do If Your Phone Falls in Water: A Step-by-Step Rescue Guide

Accidents happen, and dropping your phone into water is one of the most common and stressful ones. Whether it slipped into a sink, toilet, pool, or puddle, acting quickly can save your device from permanent damage. In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly what to do (and what not to do) if your phone takes a dive.

Step 1: Remove the Phone from Water Immediately

The longer it stays submerged, the more water seeps inside. Get it out as fast as possible.

Step 2: Turn It Off Immediately

Even if the phone seems fine, power it off to prevent short circuits. Don’t press any buttons unnecessarily.

Step 3: Remove Accessories

Take off the phone case, SIM card, memory card, and if possible, the battery. This helps air reach all parts and stops further damage.

Step 4: DO NOT Use Heat or Shake It

Avoid using a hairdryer or microwave (yes, people try it!). Shaking or blowing air can push water deeper into the phone.

Step 5: Dry It Gently

Use a soft, lint-free cloth or paper towel to dry the surface gently. Be careful not to move water into ports.

Step 6: Use Silica Gel, Not Rice

Place your phone in a sealed bag or container filled with silica gel packets (the kind you find in new shoes or electronics). These are more effective than the popular but less efficient rice method.

Let it sit for at least 24 to 48 hours.

Step 7: Try Turning It On (After 48 Hours)

Once you’re sure the phone is dry, turn it on. If it powers up and works normally, check the display, touch screen, and audio.

If the phone doesn’t turn on or shows glitches, bring it to iFixandRepair for a water damage diagnostic.

Signs of Water Damage:

  • Foggy camera lenses

  • Screen discoloration

  • Battery drains quickly

  • Device heats up

  • Audio issues

Even if your phone seems okay now, water can cause slow corrosion and issues later. Early diagnostics help prevent bigger problems.

What iFixandRepair Can Do

Our certified technicians offer:

  • Water damage cleaning & drying

  • Component-level repair

  • Battery & screen replacement

We’ll do everything possible to revive your device and save your data.

Don’t wait. Bring it in for a checkup and let the experts handle the rest!