What should I do if my iPhone 10 was submerged in water briefly?

What should I do if my iPhone 10 was submerged in water briefly?
My iPhone 10 was submerged in water briefly. I accidentally dropped it into my kitchen sink for a few seconds while washing dishes. After quickly picking it up, I noticed that water had entered some of the ports and possibly the speaker grills. I’m worried about potential internal damage since iPhones, despite having some water resistance, are not completely waterproof. I’m not sure if the brief exposure could cause long-term issues or if there are any immediate steps I need to take to prevent further damage. I’ve heard mixed opinions on using methods like rice to absorb moisture, but I’m uncertain about the effectiveness of such techniques. Additionally, I’m anxious about the potential for electrical shorts or corrosion since I rely heavily on my phone for both work and personal matters. What are the critical steps I should take to address this situation, and how concerned should I be about the damage from this brief water exposure?
4 Answers

Upon fishing your iPhone 10 out of the water, power it down immediately. Using a lint-free cloth, dry the exterior gently yet thoroughly. Focus on the ports, such as the charging slot and headphone jack. Should you have a small vacuum cleaner with a weak setting, use it to attempt drawing out water from the internals gently. Contrary to popular advice, avoid placing your iPhone in rice due to potential dust contamination. Instead, submerge the device in cat litter—specifically, silica-based—for 72 hours in a sealed bag. This technique is safe and effectively draws out moisture. Monitor for signs of internal damage post drying.

Here’s what to do when your iPhone 10 is submerged in water briefly. Shut it down immediately to prevent any electrical mishaps. Dab the external parts dry using a soft towel, ensuring no further water enters through the openings. Instead of rice, which can lodge particles into your phone, use silica gel packets that absorb moisture effectively. Place the phone in a sealed plastic bag with these desiccants for 24 to 48 hours. After this drying period, power the phone on to assess any lingering damage. If it exhibits unusual behavior, seek out a certified technician who can conduct a thorough internal examination.

When an iPhone 10 gets briefly submerged in water, things can get unsettling. The moment it happens, immediately power down your device to cut off any electrical activity. Then, dry the outside with a microfiber cloth, paying extra attention to all openings. Next, remove the SIM card and any cases. Instead of tossing it in rice, which is a common myth, opt for a silica gel pack which is designed to pull out moisture efficiently. Place your phone in a sealed container with silica packs and let it sit for at least 48 hours. Once done, check the phone for any signs of water damage before turning it on. If problems persist, it’s wise to take it to a professional for repair.

First things first, turn off your iPhone 10 immediately to reduce the risk of a short circuit. Now, gently wipe down the phone with a soft, absorbent cloth to remove any surface moisture. Avoid using a hair dryer, as this can push water further inside the device. For a more effective solution, place your phone in an airtight container with several silica gel packets for 48 hours. Silica gel is more efficient than rice in absorbing moisture without leaving any residue. After 48 hours, turn your phone on to check for any remaining issues. If the phone does not power on or behaves erratically, consult an authorized technician for a professional inspection.