Never Ever Put Your Wet iPhone in Rice – It’s a Bad Idea, Apple Says
Your iPhone will typically alert you when liquid has been detected in the Lightning or USB-C connector. Once this alert pops up, the port – including the ability to charge – will become unusable until it’s dry. Immersing your iPhone in rice to dry it is a widespread myth, but Apple warns against this practice, as it can actually lead to small particles of rice damaging your iPhone. The tech giant also recommends against using an external heat source or compressed air to dry your iPhone and cautions against inserting foreign objects, such as cotton swabs or paper towels, into the connector.
How to Dry Your iPhone
It is crucial not to attempt to charge your iPhone when it’s wet. Doing so, according to Apple, can corrode the pins on the connector or cable, causing permanent damage or connectivity issues. The recommended drying method from Apple is to gently tap your iPhone against your hand, ensuring that the connector is facing down to allow any excess liquid to fall out. Subsequently, leave your iPhone in a dry area with airflow for at least 30 minutes before attempting to charge it again. If the alert re-appears, let the iPhone sit in a dry area with airflow for up to a day. It’s important not to use heat sources like hair dryers or radiators, or to insert anything into the connector port in an attempt to dry it. Remember, when your iPhone gets wet, always trust Apple’s recommendations for safe and effective drying.