How to Protect and Fix a Water Damaged MacBook – Do’s and Don’ts 

November 4, 2022

In the realm of technology, few events cause MacBook owners’ hearts to skip a beat quite like seeing water splash onto their beloved machines. Water damage is not just common—it’s a serious issue that, if not handled quickly and properly, could render your MacBook useless. Whether it’s a spilled coffee, an unexpected rain shower, or a full submersion, the damage can be severe and expensive to repair.

This comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and practical steps required to protect and repair a water-damaged MacBook. By following these expert recommendations, you can increase your chances of saving your device from permanent damage.

Immediate Steps: What to Do Right Away

Every second matters when disaster strikes and water comes into contact with your MacBook. The first and most critical step is to disconnect the power source immediately.

• If your MacBook is plugged in, unplug it from the power outlet right away.
• If it’s running on battery, press and hold the power button to shut it down immediately.

While you must act quickly, it’s essential to stay calm. Panic may lead to hasty decisions that could cause more damage than good. Your quick and level-headed response in these initial moments can significantly impact the outcome of the situation.

If you’re curious about potential repair costs, check out How Much It Costs to Repair a MacBook at the Apple Store to better understand your options.

Do’s and Don’ts: Preventing Further Damage

Knowing what to do—and what to avoid—can greatly improve your chances of saving a water-damaged MacBook.

What You Should Do

✔ Tilt your MacBook slightly to allow water to drain out naturally. This prevents further liquid from seeping into internal components.

✔ Use absorbent materials—gently dab the exterior of your MacBook with a lint-free cloth or paper towels to absorb visible moisture.

✔ Remove all accessories—disconnect dongles, USB devices, external hard drives, and chargers to prevent short circuits.

✔ Use silica gel packets—if available, place them around your MacBook to help absorb moisture from the air.

✔ Place your MacBook in a well-ventilated, low-humidity environment to allow for natural drying.

What You Should Avoid

✖ Do not use a hairdryer—the heat may damage delicate internal components and push moisture deeper into the device.

✖ Do not turn your MacBook on prematurely—as tempting as it may be, powering on a wet MacBook can result in short circuits and irreversible damage.

✖ Do not shake or tilt aggressively—while draining water is important, excessive movement could spread the liquid to unaffected areas.

✖ Do not put your MacBook in rice—contrary to popular belief, rice is not an effective drying agent and may leave starch or dust inside your device.

✖ Do not attempt to charge it—connecting a wet MacBook to power could cause electrical damage.

If you’ve had water damage issues with a smartphone as well, check out Do’s and Don’ts for Water-Damaged Phone Repair for additional guidance.

Assessing the Damage: Signs of Water Exposure

Once you’ve taken immediate action, it’s time to evaluate the extent of the water damage. Look for these warning signs:

• Water droplets beneath the screen
• Discoloration or stains on the keyboard or trackpad
• Corrosion around connectors or ports
• Unusual noises when tilting the device

Not all water damage is immediately visible. Some problems may take days or weeks to appear, such as:

• Unexpected shutdowns or restarts
• Battery draining significantly faster than usual
• Keyboard or trackpad malfunctions
• Screen flickering or discoloration

If you notice any of these symptoms, act quickly to prevent further deterioration.

DIY Repair Options: Can You Fix It Yourself?

While professional repair is often the best course of action, there are a few DIY steps you can try to minimize damage:

• If you’re comfortable opening your MacBook, carefully do so to allow better airflow. This should only be attempted if you’re confident about disassembling and reassembling your device.
• Use compressed air to gently blow moisture out of vents and ports. Be careful not to push water deeper inside.
• If you notice corrosion, clean affected areas with a soft brush and isopropyl alcohol. Avoid touching delicate components.
• Place your MacBook in a sealed container with silica gel packets to create a moisture-absorbing drying environment. Leave it for at least 48 hours.

Once your MacBook is completely dry, carefully reassemble it and attempt to turn it on. If it doesn’t work, or if issues persist, seeking professional repair is your best option.

If the screen was affected, you might also want to explore MacBook Screen Repair Costs With and Without AppleCare for additional insights.

When to Seek Professional Help

If your MacBook still isn’t functioning properly, professional repair services may be necessary. Some hardware damage requires specialized tools that aren’t available for at-home repairs.

If in doubt, visit a repair service like Mr Fix for expert assistance in diagnosing and repairing MacBook water damage.

Final Thoughts: Act Fast, Stay Smart

Water damage to a MacBook can be stressful and expensive, but quick action and the right approach can increase your chances of recovery.

• Act immediately—disconnect power and turn off your MacBook as soon as possible.
• Follow the do’s and don’ts—use absorbent materials, avoid heat sources, and don’t turn it on too soon.
• Assess the damage—look for visual indicators and monitor for performance issues.
• Try DIY repair techniques cautiously—open your device only if you’re comfortable, and use silica gel for drying.
• Seek expert help if needed—if problems persist, consider professional MacBook repair services.

By keeping this guide handy, you’ll be prepared for any water mishap and better equipped to protect your valuable MacBook.

For trusted MacBook and Apple device repairs, visit MrFIX Electronics—your go-to destination for professional and reliable repair solutions.