Accidents happen, and one of the scariest moments for any iPhone user is when their device falls into water. Whether it’s a quick splash or a full dive, water can cause serious damage to your iPhone if not handled correctly.
In this guide, we’ll Talk about what to do if your iPhone falls in water and the essential steps to take immediately after your iPhone gets wet, and how to increase the chances of saving your device.
What to Do If Your iPhone Falls in Water
Don’t worry if water, juice, or a drink has spilled on your water-resistant iPhone at a hotel, or if it has fallen in light rain or into a water tub; your iPhone should still work fine. Just follow the steps we will outline below.
The water-resistant level of your iPhone can be determined by its IP rating. Ingress Protection (IP) indicates how well your iPhone can resist water and dust. Below is a list showing how different iPhones stack up in terms of resistance.
Different iPhone Model and IP Rating
These are the official IP ratings for different iPhone models as provided on the Apple Support technical specifications page.
No official IP Ratings
- Original iPhone to iPhone 6s.
- iPhone SE first generation.
Rated IP67 (Maximum depth of I meter up to 30 minutes)
- iPhone 7
- iPhone 7plus
- iPhone 8
- iPhone 8 plus
- iPhone X
- iPhone XR
- iPhone SE second generation 2020
- iPhone SE second generation 2022
Rated IP68(maximum depth of meter up 30 minutes)
- iPhone XS
- iPhone XS Max
- iPhone 11
Rated IP68 (maximum depth of 6 meters up to 30 minutes)
- iPhone 12 mini
- iPhone 12
- iPhone 12 pro
- iPhone 12 pro max
- iPhone 13 mini
- iPhone 13
- iPhone 13 pro
- iPhone 13 pro max
- iPhone 14
- iPhone 14 plus
- iPhone 14 pro
- iPhone 14 pro max
- iPhone 15
- iPhone 15 pro max
What affects the water resistance of an iPhone?
The water resistance ability of an iPhone can decrease over time because these characteristics are not permanent. With regular use and the passage of time, this ability can diminish, especially if the iPhone is exposed to salty water, like seawater, or if corrosive liquids like juice frequently spill on it.
Additionally, if you have had the screen or battery repaired, this ability can also be reduced. Therefore, if you have had your iPhone’s screen repaired, you should take extra care with it.
Can I claim the warranty and free repair for a water-damaged iPhone?
No, you cannot do that because Apple has not made any promises for such claims.
What to Do If Your iPhone Falls in Water
If your iPhone was in water for some time or got splashed, following any of these tips should be enough. However, if your water-resistant or non-water-resistant iPhone was submerged in water for a long time, then it’s important to apply all the tips.
1. Act Fast: Get Your iPhone Out of the Water
The first and most important step is to remove your iPhone from the water as quickly as possible. The longer it stays submerged, the higher the risk of permanent damage.
2. Turn It Off Immediately
After you get your iPhone out of the water, turn it off right away. Water can cause short circuits inside your phone, and keeping it on might worsen the damage. To turn it off, press and hold the power button until the “slide to power off” option appears, then slide it to turn off your device.
3. Remove Any Case or Cover
If your iPhone is in a case or has a cover, remove it. Cases can trap moisture, which may lead to further damage. Taking off the case allows your iPhone to dry out more effectively.
4. Wipe It Dry with a Soft Cloth
Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently wipe your iPhone. Focus on the exterior and try to remove as much water as possible. Be careful not to press any buttons or shake the phone, as this might push water deeper into the device.
5. Remove the SIM Card
Take out the SIM card using a SIM ejector tool or a paperclip. Removing the SIM card helps to prevent any damage to the card and allows for better air circulation inside the phone.
6. Avoid Common Mistakes
- Don’t Use a Hairdryer: Blowing hot air on your iPhone might seem like a quick fix, but it can push water further into the phone and damage internal components.
- Don’t Charge It: Charging a wet iPhone can cause a short circuit, leading to severe damage.
- Don’t Shake It: Shaking your iPhone can move water into parts of the device where it wouldn’t naturally go, increasing the risk of damage.
7. Use the “Dry Rice” Method (With Caution)
One popular method to dry out a wet iPhone is to place it in a container of uncooked rice. Rice can help absorb moisture, but it’s not a guaranteed solution. If you choose this method, make sure your iPhone is completely covered by rice and leave it in for at least 24 to 48 hours. However, be aware that rice grains can get stuck in the ports, so this method is not without risk.
8. Use Silica Gel Packets
A better alternative to rice is silica gel packets, which are often found in new shoes or electronics packaging. Silica gel is highly effective at absorbing moisture. Place your iPhone in an airtight container with several packets and leave it for 48 hours.
9. Wait and See
Patience is key. After drying your iPhone using any method, leave it off and give it time to dry completely. Wait at least 48 hours before attempting to turn it back on.
10. Test Your iPhone
After 48 hours, turn on your iPhone. If it powers up, check all the functions, including the touchscreen, speakers, microphone, and charging port. If everything works as expected, your phone may have survived the water incident.
11. Seek Professional Help if Necessary
If your iPhone doesn’t turn on or if you notice any issues, it’s best to seek professional help. Take your device to an authorized Apple service center or a trusted repair shop. They can assess the damage and may be able to repair it.
12. Consider Water Damage Repair Options
If your iPhone is under warranty, check if it covers water damage. Some iPhones come with water-resistant features, but this doesn’t make them waterproof. Water damage is typically not covered by standard warranties, but you may be eligible for repair or replacement under AppleCare+ or other insurance plans.
13. Tips for Future Water Damage
- Even though your iPhone is water-resistant, treat it as if it isn’t and keep it far away from water.
- Be especially careful when taking pictures near water, like at pools, beaches, or in the bathtub, and hold your iPhone securely.
- If you often need to be around water, consider using a waterproof case. You can also purchase coverage and insurance that will protect against liquid damage.
14.Get your iPhone inspected, but please avoid debating with Apple Genuine.
If your iPhone remained submerged in water for a long time and the above tips haven’t restored its regular functionality, your last option is to have it checked by a technician. You can contact Apple Support from another Apple device or visit a nearby Apple store.
Some people debate with technicians when trying to get their iPhone repaired under warranty, denying that they intentionally or accidentally exposed their device to water. However, arguing with them won’t be beneficial.
15.Check Liquid Contact
Your iPhone has a Liquid Contact Indicator (LCI) near the SIM slot. If no water damage has occurred inside your iPhone, the indicator will remain gold or white.
However, if water has caused damage and penetrated deep into the device, the indicator will turn red, signaling that the iPhone has been damaged by water.
Related Article: How to remove clock from iPhone lock screen?
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is my iPhone waterproof or water-resistant?
Answer: Most modern iPhones (iPhone 7 and later) are water-resistant but not waterproof. They have an IP rating, such as IP67 or IP68, which means they can withstand splashes and brief absorption in water. However, this protection may diminish over time due to wear and tear.
2. What should I do immediately after my iPhone falls in water?
Answer: Turn off your iPhone immediately, remove any case, wipe it dry, and remove the SIM card. Avoid charging it or pressing any buttons. Let it dry naturally or use silica gel packets to absorb the moisture.
3. How long should I leave my iPhone in rice?
Answer: If using the rice method, leave your iPhone in a container of uncooked rice for at least 24 to 48 hours. However, using silica gel packets is a more effective and safer alternative.
4. Can I use a hairdryer to dry my iPhone?
Answer: No, using a hairdryer can push water deeper into your iPhone and cause further damage. It can also overheat the device, damaging internal components.
5. My iPhone got wet, but it’s still working. Should I do anything?
Answer: Even if your iPhone seems to be working, it’s wise to turn it off and let it dry out completely. Internal moisture can cause damage over time, leading to problems later on.
6. Can Apple repair water-damaged iPhones?
Answer: Apple may be able to repair water-damaged iPhones, but water damage is usually not covered under the standard warranty. If you have AppleCare+, it may cover some of the repair costs, but it’s best to check your specific coverage.
7. How can I tell if my iPhone has water damage?
Answer: Most iPhones have a Liquid Contact Indicator (LCI) that changes color when it comes into contact with water. You can usually find it in the SIM card slot. If the LCI has turned red or pink, your iPhone has likely suffered water damage.
8. What are the signs that my iPhone is damaged by water?
Answer: Common signs include problems with the touchscreen, speaker issues, inability to charge, unexpected shutdowns, and malfunctioning buttons.
9. Can I prevent water damage to my iPhone?
Answer: To prevent water damage, avoid exposing your iPhone to water, even if it’s water-resistant. Consider using a waterproof case, especially if you’re around water often, like at the beach or pool.
10. Is water damage covered by my iPhone warranty?
Answer: Standard iPhone warranties typically do not cover water damage. However, if you have AppleCare+, it may cover some repair costs for accidental damage, including water damage.
Conclusion
Water damage can be a serious issue for any iPhone user, but with quick and careful action, you can increase the chances of saving your device. Remember to turn off your iPhone immediately, avoid common mistakes like using a hairdryer, and give your phone plenty of time to dry out. If you’re ever in doubt, seeking professional help is always a smart move. Taking these steps can help you avoid costly repairs and keep your iPhone in good working condition.