Phone took a dip? These 10 tips could save it

Turn it off immediately Power off your phone instantly to prevent short-circuiting. Even if it seems to work, internal moisture can damage components quickly. Don’t press any buttons or charge it.

Remove Sim and memory cards Take out the Sim card, memory card and the battery (if possible). This allows better air circulation and prevents corrosion in critical areas like contact points.

Dry the exterior Use a soft, absorbent cloth or paper towel to gently wipe the surface. Avoid shaking the phone, which can push water deeper into internal parts.

Use a vacuum cleaner Hold a small vacuum nozzle near charging ports and openings to draw out moisture. Avoid using too much suction or pressing the vacuum directly on the device.

Avoid using a hairdryer Blowing hot air can push moisture further inside or overheat sensitive components. Air-drying or using cool air is much safer for water-exposed electronics.

Place in silica gel packets Put the phone in a sealed container with silica gel packets for at least 24–48 hours. Silica absorbs moisture more effectively than rice and won’t leave particles behind.

Do not charge it right away Wait at least 48 hours or until completely dry before attempting to charge. Plugging it in while damp can cause irreversible internal damage.

Use isopropyl alcohol for cleaning If exposed to saltwater or sugary drinks, clean internal parts (if removable) with 90 per cent+ isopropyl alcohol. It displaces moisture and helps reduce corrosion risk.

Check moisture indicators Most phones have moisture detection stickers inside the SIM tray or back panel. They turn red if water damage is present and can come in handy for warranty claims or technician checks.

Consult a professional If the phone shows no signs of recovery after drying, take it to a repair expert. Water damage often needs ultrasonic cleaning or part replacements.

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