Although rice is renowned for its moisture-absorbing properties, using it as a quick fix for a water-damaged phone is a mistake. Despite our best efforts, we sometimes end up with a wet phone due to accidental drops or getting caught in the rain. When this happens, phones can experience issues like a malfunctioning touchscreen, muffled speakers, failure to detect SIM cards, or even a complete shutdown.
It has become a common reflex to quickly bury our phones in a container of rice to absorb moisture and prevent further damage. However, this practice is a misconception and can actually be detrimental to your device.
**Why You Shouldn’t Bury Your Wet Phone in Rice**
While rice can absorb moisture, using it as a first-aid solution for a water-damaged phone is ill-advised. According to research conducted by reputable organizations like the University of Colorado, burying your phone in rice can cause rice grains and dust to enter the crevices of your device, leading to blockages in the charging port, speakers, headphone jack, and internal components.
Removing these rice grains is not only time-consuming and laborious but often impossible, resulting in further damage to your phone. Additionally, burying your phone in rice does not guarantee the complete removal of moisture.
**What to Do If Your Phone Gets Wet**
If your phone gets wet, the first step is to turn it off immediately and unplug the charger if it’s connected. This is crucial because if the phone is on, the electrical current can come into contact with water and cause internal circuit damage. Next, remove any cases, SIM cards, and memory cards, and gently dry them with a soft cloth or absorbent paper. Avoid rubbing or applying pressure to prevent pushing water further into the device.
Point the charging port downward and gently tap the phone to let the water drip out. Place the phone in a dry, well-ventilated area, and refrain from using a hairdryer or exposing it to direct sunlight, as this can damage the phone. If you have silica gel packets, you can place them near the phone to aid in moisture absorption.
In cases where your phone has been submerged in water for an extended period, such as in a swimming pool or the sea, or if it still doesn’t function properly after following the above steps, take it to a professional for timely cleaning and repairs. Additionally, when going swimming, to the beach, or out in the rain, it’s advisable to keep your phone in a waterproof case or plastic bag to prevent water damage.