Have you ever watched in horror as your iPhone took an unexpected dive into the sink, pool, or even worse, the toilet? If you’re like many, your first instinct might be to reach for a bag of rice, a well-known home remedy for drying out electronics. However, Apple has officially advised against this method, stating that it could actually cause more harm than good to your beloved device.
“Don’t put your iPhone in a bag of rice. Doing so could allow small particles of rice to damage your iPhone,” Apple warns in a support note. This advice is not just a random tip but is based on the company’s extensive testing, which suggests that uncooked rice isn’t particularly effective at drying out your device anyway.
The myth of using rice to dry out electronics dates back to 1946, originally as a method to preserve cameras. Over the years, this technique has been applied to cell phones, with many swearing by its effectiveness. However, experts and now Apple have debunked this as a potentially damaging practice.
So, what should you do if your iPhone gets wet? Apple’s guidance is clear and straightforward. If you receive a “liquid detected” alert while trying to charge your phone, you should first unplug the charging cable at both ends. Then, gently tap the phone against your hand with the connector facing down to remove excess liquid. Allow it to dry in a well-ventilated area for at least 30 minutes before attempting to charge it again. If the alert persists, wait a full day before trying once more.
Apple also cautions against using external heat sources or compressed air to dry your iPhone, as well as inserting any foreign objects into the connector. If your phone isn’t functioning, turn it off immediately and avoid pressing any buttons. Dry it with a towel and, if possible, place it in an airtight container with silica gel packets.
Despite the popularity of the rice method, Apple and repair experts agree that simply leaving your iPhone on a counter to air dry is more effective. Time is of the essence, and the goal is to prevent water from causing internal damage.
In the event that Apple’s advice doesn’t resolve the issue, it may be time to seek professional help or even consider purchasing a new iPhone. But whatever you do, resist the urge to use rice as a drying agent.
Remember, while many of today’s iPhones are water-resistant, they are not invincible against liquid mishaps. By following Apple’s official recommendations, you can increase the chances of your iPhone surviving an unexpected swim and avoid the pitfalls of well-intentioned but potentially harmful DIY fixes.
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