Mobile care
What to Do After Mobile Water Damage
Immediate, safe steps after a phone gets wet and the information to share when requesting an assessment.
Switch the phone off if it is safe, disconnect charging accessories, remove the case and SIM tray, gently dry the outside and do not charge or repeatedly test it. Avoid heat, compressed air and rice. Arrange assessment promptly because moisture can continue causing corrosion even after the surface looks dry.
The first few minutes
Move the phone away from the liquid and unplug any cable without touching a wet power source. If the device is on and responding normally, switch it off. Do not keep waking the screen to check whether it still works.
- Remove the case and detachable accessories.
- Blot the outside with a clean, absorbent cloth.
- Keep liquid away from other electronics and power points.
What not to do
Do not use a hair dryer, oven, direct sunlight or another heat source. Heat can damage seals, adhesives, the display and battery. Do not shake the phone or push objects into ports because this can move moisture deeper. Rice does not reliably remove internal moisture and can leave dust in openings.
Information that helps an assessment
Share the exact model, type of liquid, length of exposure, whether the phone was powered or charging, and what happened afterward. Mention heat, smell, flickering, camera fogging or audio problems. An inspection may be needed even if the device starts normally.
Protecting your data
If the phone is already off, avoid powering it on only to create a backup. If it remains stable and a professional advises that brief use is reasonable, prioritize essential data. Never share passwords or one-time codes during an enquiry.
Frequently asked questions
Should I charge the phone to see if it works?+
No. Charging a wet phone can worsen damage and create a safety risk.
Is a water-resistant phone safe from liquid damage?+
Water resistance can reduce risk but is not permanent or absolute; wear, impact and liquid type affect protection.
Does switching on mean the phone is fine?+
Not necessarily. Corrosion and delayed faults may develop after the surface appears dry.