iPhone Water Damage: What to Do in the First 24 Hours

Warning

Time is critical: The first 48 hours after water exposure determine whether your iPhone can be saved. Don't charge it, don't put it in rice, and get it to a professional as quickly as possible. For detailed repair information, see our complete water damage guide.

If your iPhone has been dropped in water, gone through the washing machine, or been exposed to any liquid, this guide covers exactly what to do — and what NOT to do — to give your phone the best chance of survival. If your iPhone won't charge after water exposure, that's common and fixable.

Immediate Steps (First 5 Minutes)

1. Remove from liquid immediately — Every second counts
2. Turn it off — If it's still on, power it down immediately
3. Remove the case — Cases trap water against the phone
4. Remove the SIM card — Open the tray to let air in
5. Shake gently — Tilt with ports facing down to drain water
6. Wipe the exterior — Use a lint-free cloth to remove visible moisture

What NOT to Do

Do NOT Charge Your iPhone

This is the most important rule. Electricity and water cause corrosion and short circuits. Even if your phone appears to work, charging while wet can cause permanent damage to the logic board.

Do NOT Put It in Rice

Despite the popular myth, rice doesn't help and can make things worse:

• Rice doesn't effectively absorb moisture from inside a phone
• Rice dust and starch can get into ports and cause additional problems
• It creates a false sense of security while corrosion continues
• Professional repair technicians universally advise against it

Do NOT Use a Hair Dryer

Heat can damage internal components and push moisture deeper into the phone. The adhesives and seals inside iPhones can also melt under direct heat.

Do NOT Try to Turn It On

Resist the urge to check if it works. Powering on a wet phone can cause short circuits that turn recoverable damage into permanent failure.

Proper Drying Method

Silica Gel (Best Home Option)

If you have silica gel packets (from shoe boxes, electronics packaging, etc.):

• Place the phone in an airtight container with the silica packets
• Ensure packets surround the phone completely
• Leave for 48-72 hours minimum
• This is more effective than rice but still not ideal

Air Drying

If you don't have silica gel:

• Place the phone on a dry cloth with the charging port facing down
• Position near (not on) a gentle heat source like a warm radiator
• Use a fan to improve air circulation around the phone
• Wait at least 48 hours before attempting to charge

Professional Drying (Recommended)

Professional repair shops have ultrasonic cleaning equipment that can remove water and contaminants from inside the phone far more effectively than any home method. This significantly increases the chance of recovery.

Understanding iPhone Water Resistance

Modern iPhones have water resistance ratings, but this doesn't mean they're waterproof:

Did You Know?

Important: Water resistance degrades over time. A 3-year-old iPhone won't have the same protection as when it was new. Drops, screen repairs, and general wear all compromise the seals.

Types of Liquid Damage

Fresh Water

Clean water causes the least immediate damage but will still cause corrosion if not addressed. Recovery rates are highest with fresh water exposure.

Salt Water

Sea water is highly corrosive due to salt content. It causes rapid oxidation of internal components. Professional cleaning within 24 hours is essential.

Chlorinated Water (Pools)

Pool water contains chemicals that can damage seals and internal coatings. While less corrosive than salt water, it still requires prompt attention.

Other Liquids

Coffee, tea, soft drinks, alcohol, and other liquids contain sugars, acids, and other substances that cause additional damage beyond water alone. These require professional ultrasonic cleaning to remove residue.

Professional Repair Options

What Are the Recovery Chances?

Recovery success depends on several factors:

• Time underwater — Brief splashes have higher recovery rates
• Type of liquid — Fresh water is best, sugary/salty liquids are worst
• Actions taken — Not charging or turning on improves chances
• Time to professional help — Faster is always better
• iPhone model — Newer models with better sealing fare better

With prompt professional treatment, recovery rates can exceed 70-80% for fresh water exposure when the phone isn't charged while wet.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I wait before turning on a wet iPhone?

Apple recommends waiting at least 5 hours before charging after minor water exposure. For submersion, wait at least 48-72 hours, or better yet, have it professionally assessed before attempting to power on.

Will Apple cover water damage under warranty?

No. Apple's warranty explicitly excludes liquid damage. iPhones have internal liquid contact indicators that turn red when exposed to moisture, and Apple technicians check these during any repair assessment.

My iPhone says it has water in the charging port. What should I do?

iOS displays this warning when moisture is detected in the Lightning or USB-C port. Don't try to override it. Leave the phone to dry with the port facing down, and the warning should clear within a few hours. If your iPhone won't charge after drying, the port may need professional attention.

Is it worth repairing a water-damaged iPhone?

This depends on the extent of damage and the phone's value. Professional assessment will determine what repairs are needed. Often, cleaning and minor component replacement can restore a water-damaged phone for less than the cost of replacement.