1. Power off the iPhone immediately
The first thing you should do when your iPhone falls into water is to turn it off. Doing this will prevent short-circuits and further damage. Press and hold the power button until the device turns off.
2. Dry the exterior
Wipe the exterior of the iPhone with a dry soft cloth or towel. This step is essential as water droplets on the surface can seep through the ports and gaps, causing moisture to build up internally.
3. Remove any accessories and sim card
If your iPhone has a case, screen protector, or any other accessories, remove them. Also, take out the sim card tray using a pin or paper clip. Dry the accessories and sim card tray separately.
4. Use a vacuum cleaner or rice to remove moisture
Using a vacuum cleaner or rice is one of the standard methods to remove moisture from an iPhone. To use a vacuum cleaner, place the nozzle over the ports and gaps and carefully suck out any excess water. Ensure that you don’t scratch or damage any parts while doing this.
To use rice, fill a plastic bag with uncooked rice and place the iPhone inside it. The rice will absorb the moisture from the device. However, it can take a few days for the rice to work effectively.
5. Use a silica gel packet
A silica gel packet also works in removing moisture from an iPhone. It’s readily available at most pharmacies or online stores. Place the iPhone and the silica gel packet inside an airtight container and wait for 24 to 48 hours. The silica gel will absorb the moisture from the device.
6. Don’t use any external heat sources
Using an external heat source like a hairdryer can cause irreparable damage to your iPhone. Therefore, avoid using any external heat sources to dry your device.
7. Wait and try turning on the iPhone
After following the above steps, wait for 48 hours. After this, try to turn on your iPhone. If it turns on, it’s an indication that the device is working fine. However, if it does not turn on or shows any signs of malfunctioning, consult a professional technician.
In conclusion, an iPhone falling into water can be a nightmare. However, with the right steps, you can save your device from permanent damage. Always remember to turn off your iPhone, dry the exterior, remove any accessories or sim card, use a vacuum cleaner or rice to remove moisture, use a silica gel packet, avoid external heat sources, and wait for at least 24 to 48 hours before trying to turn on your phone. Good luck!