Do’s and Don’ts for Water Damaged Phone Repair.

November 16, 2022

Water damage is one of the most common threats to our smartphones—whether it’s a toilet accident, a poolside slip, or a spilled drink. The good news? A water-damaged phone isn’t always a lost cause.

This guide will walk you through the critical first steps to minimize damage, explain what NOT to do, and help you decide when it’s time to seek professional repair services.

If you’re dealing with a water-damaged MacBook, check out How to Protect and Fix a Water-Damaged MacBook for a specialized guide.

The First Few Seconds: What to Do Immediately

The moments right after water exposure are crucial. Here’s how to act fast to save your phone:

• Power off your phone immediately – Water and electricity don’t mix! Keeping your phone on could cause a short circuit and fry internal components.
• Remove the battery (if possible) – If your phone has a removable battery, take it out right away to prevent further damage.
• Take out the SIM card & accessories – Remove any SIM cards, memory cards, or connected accessories to prevent corrosion.
• Wipe off excess water – Use a lint-free cloth to dry your phone’s surface, especially around the charging port and speaker holes.

DO NOT shake your phone or blow into ports—this can push water deeper inside and cause more harm.

What NOT to Do: Common Mistakes to Avoid

Panicking often leads to bad decisions that can worsen the damage. Here’s what you should NOT do:

• Don’t use a hairdryer or apply heat – High temperatures can warp internal components and trap moisture inside.
• Don’t charge your phone – Plugging in a wet phone can cause a short circuit and fry the motherboard.
• Don’t press buttons – This can force water deeper into the device, increasing damage.
• Don’t put your phone in rice – Contrary to popular belief, rice doesn’t effectively absorb moisture and can leave behind dust and starch particles that cause further issues.
• Don’t turn it on right away – Give your phone at least 48 hours to dry before attempting to power it on.

When to Seek Professional Repair

While DIY drying methods can sometimes rescue minor water damage, serious exposure often requires professional intervention.

Signs You Need Expert Repair:

• Your phone was submerged for more than a few seconds, especially in salt water or dirty water.
• Visible corrosion appears on the charging port or SIM tray.
• Your phone won’t turn on even after drying for 48 hours.
• Touchscreen issues, battery problems, or distorted display appear after drying.

Most modern phones have liquid damage indicators that change color when exposed to water. If your indicator is triggered, visiting a professional may be necessary.

If you’re wondering about the cost of repairing water damage for Apple devices, check out How Much It Costs to Repair a MacBook at the Apple Store for an idea of repair pricing.

Preventing Water Damage: Protect Your Phone

The best way to deal with water damage is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Here’s how:

• Invest in a waterproof case – A high-quality case can protect your phone from spills and even brief submersion.
• Choose a water-resistant phone – Many modern smartphones have some level of water resistance, but they’re not waterproof—so handle them carefully.
• Use waterproof pouches – If you’re near water (beach, pool, boat trips), keep your phone in a sealed waterproof bag.
• Be mindful of your surroundings – Avoid placing your phone near sinks, bathtubs, or open water bottles.
• Use Bluetooth accessories – Wireless headphones and speakers can help you keep your phone at a safe distance from water.

If you’re interested in how different phone screens handle water exposure, check out What is an AMOLED Display? to learn more about display technology.

Final Thoughts: Act Fast & Stay Prepared

A water-damaged phone isn’t always a lost cause, but acting quickly and correctly can make all the difference.

✔ Power off your phone immediately and remove the battery (if possible).

✔ Dry the exterior, but don’t shake or blow air into ports.

✔ Avoid using rice, heat, or charging the phone too soon.

✔ Wait at least 48 hours before turning it on.

✔ If issues persist, seek professional repair services.

For expert iPhone and Android repairs, visit Mr Fix—trusted by thousands for fast and reliable smartphone repairs.