Apple Provides Alternative Steps for Drying Out iPhones
Apple has released a 2024 support document advising against using rice to dry out wet iPhones, contrary to popular belief. The company suggests alternative steps to dry out iPhones that have been exposed to liquids.
The traditional method of using rice involves placing the wet iPhone in a bag of rice to draw out the moisture. However, researchers claim that this method may not be effective and could potentially cause further damage to the device.
Instead, Apple recommends the following steps:
- Tap your iPhone gently against your hand with the connector facing down to remove excess liquid.
- Leave your iPhone in a dry area with some airflow.
- After at least 30 minutes, try charging with a Lightning or USB-C cable or connecting an accessory.
- If the liquid detection alert persists, leave your iPhone in a dry area with some airflow for up to a day. You can try again to charge or connect an accessory throughout this period. It might take up to 24 hours to fully dry.
- If your phone has dried out but still isn’t charging, unplug the cable from the adapter and unplug the adapter from the wall (if possible) and then connect them again.
Apple also advises against using external heat sources or compressed air to dry your iPhone, as well as inserting foreign objects, such as cotton swabs or paper towels, into the Lightning or USB-C port.