Technology

The Magic of Rice: Why You Shouldn’t Put Your Wet iPhone in a Rice Bin

Apple has released new support documentation advising against burying iPhones in rice when they get wet. This long-held practice of submerging water-damaged phones in uncooked rice may not be effective, according to Apple.

Administrator

2 September, 2024

Instead of the above methods, Apple recommends turning off the device, facing it down, or standing it up to drain excess liquid, and then placing it in a dry area with a gentle breeze. After at least 30 minutes, attempt to charge it using a Lightning or USB-C cable.

If there is still liquid in the connector or under the cable, continue to place the device in a dry area with a gentle breeze for “up to a day” and try charging again. If the phone is dry but still won’t charge, unplug the cable and reconnect it. If these steps are unsuccessful, it is advisable to contact Apple support for further guidance.

According to 9to5mac, Apple’s method is only suitable for iPhones with minor water exposure around the charging port, while most iPhones have water-resistant features. The company does not address how to handle iPhones that have lost this functionality.

Currently, iPhones have achieved an IP68 rating, supporting water resistance under certain conditions, such as operating one meter underwater for 30 minutes. However, both Apple and Android manufacturers do not provide warranties for water-damaged smartphones. Additionally, the touchscreen and iOS interface do not function effectively when the device is submerged.

Why Do Many People Believe Rice Absorbs Moisture From Phones?

According to The Verge, using rice to absorb moisture from a water-damaged phone is a “tip” that has been passed down through generations. This notion originates from the photography world. In 1946, an article in Popular Photography suggested that tea, brown paper, and rice could be used as desiccants if one traveled to humid climates. In 1996, the magazine ‘Make it Last’ also listed rice among over 100 ways to prolong the lifespan of devices due to its moisture-absorbing properties. Subsequently, many guides and tips on electronic device care and handling mentioned rice, leading many to believe that this readily available household item is a savior for phones.

However, in 2014, Gazelle conducted an experiment that revealed rice to be the worst absorbent compared to other household items like cat litter and oatmeal. TekDry, a company providing emergency electronic device rescue services, performed a similar experiment and found that natural evaporation resulted in more water removal than rice storage.

Craig Beinecke, co-founder of TekDry, stated, “The rice trick persists because it sounds right, even when real-world evidence proves it useless. The story of rice saving water-damaged phones has been passed down through generations.” Rice contains a fine layer of starch that, when exposed to water, can clump and stick to phone crevices like the charging port, speaker grille, and screen edges.

What To Do If Your Phone Gets Wet?

According to technicians from the Institute of Mobile (Ho Chi Minh City), the first step when a phone gets wet is to promptly turn it off to prevent water from penetrating deeper into the device and affecting critical components like circuits and the mainboard, which could lead to a short circuit. Next, users should remove any detachable parts such as the SIM card, back cover, and battery.

Then, dry the phone using specialized drying agents like silica gel, often found in food packets. Alternatively, place the device in front of a fan or in a dry area. Exercise caution when using a hairdryer as it may cause water droplets to penetrate deeper into the device or melt rubber gaskets and screen adhesives.

Finally, users should refrain from turning on the device immediately after performing the above steps. Instead, wait a few hours for the phone to dry completely. If “first aid” measures are taken but there is still suspicion of significant water damage, it is advisable to take the phone to a repair shop for inspection.

Frequently asked questions

While it is a common practice to put a wet iPhone in a container of rice to absorb the moisture, it may not be the best idea. Rice can generate heat when it releases its moisture, which could potentially damage the iPhone’s delicate internal components. Additionally, rice grains are starchy and can leave a residue on the phone, causing further issues.

There are a few alternative methods that can be used instead of rice. One option is to use silica gel packets, which are highly absorbent and can draw moisture out of the phone. Another method is to use an airtight container with desiccant packets, which are designed to absorb moisture. Placing the iPhone in a sunny, well-ventilated area can also help speed up the drying process.

These alternative methods can be more effective than using rice, as they are designed to absorb moisture without the potential risks of heat generation and residue. Silica gel and desiccant packets are commonly used for drying electronic devices and are safe and reliable options. Placing the iPhone in a well-ventilated area also helps prevent the build-up of moisture, which is crucial for a complete drying process.

It is important to act quickly when your iPhone gets wet. Power it down immediately to prevent short circuits and do not attempt to turn it on until you are certain it is completely dry. Remove any cases or covers, as they can trap moisture. You should also avoid using a hairdryer or any direct heat source, as this can cause further damage.

If your iPhone has been exposed to water, keep an eye out for any signs of water damage. This could include condensation under the screen, a red water contact indicator, or corrosion on the charging port or headphone jack. In such cases, it is best to take your iPhone to a professional for proper diagnosis and repair.