Why Putting Your Wet iPhone in Rice Might Actually Damage It

Apple, known for its innovative technology, has issued a warning against using uncooked rice to dry out wet iPhones. Despite the common belief that rice can absorb moisture and save water-damaged phones, Apple support documents explicitly advise against this method. According to Macworld, Apple cautions users that placing their iPhones in a bag of rice could potentially introduce small particles of rice into the device, leading to further damage.

Instead of resorting to the traditional rice remedy, Apple offers alternative steps to take when dealing with a wet iPhone. The tech giant suggests avoiding the use of external heat sources such as hair dryers or compressed air, as well as refraining from inserting cotton swabs or paper towels into the charging ports. Apple recommends tapping the phone against your hand with the connector pointing down to remove excess liquid, similar to clearing water from your ear after swimming. Subsequently, the phone should be placed in an area with good airflow to dry naturally, and users should wait at least 30 minutes before attempting to charge it. In cases where the liquid detection alert persists, Apple advises leaving the phone untouched for up to 24 hours to ensure thorough drying.

For years, rice has been regarded as the go-to solution for drying out waterlogged electronics quickly. As a desiccant, rice was believed to draw out excess moisture and salvage wet devices. However, Apple’s warning sheds light on the potential risks associated with using rice for drying iPhones. Contrary to popular belief, it is not the rice that aids in the drying process, but rather the time spent powered off and exposed to airflow that facilitates the evaporation of moisture from the device. Therefore, the efficacy of rice in saving water-damaged phones may be more of a myth than a proven remedy.

While the idea of using rice to rescue a wet iPhone may seem practical, Apple’s advice urges users to reconsider this approach. By following the tech company’s recommended steps for dealing with liquid damage, users can mitigate the risk of further harm to their devices. Ultimately, it is important to rely on scientifically-backed methods rather than popular myths when it comes to preserving the functionality of electronic devices.