Apple iPhones iPhone Water Damage Recovery: How to Fix It Yourself
If your iPhone got wet, the most important thing is to act fast and avoid making common mistakes. Do not try to turn it on or charge it. The steps below give your phone the best chance of recovery.
⚠️ Safety First
- Do NOT try to charge your iPhone until it is completely dry — charging a wet phone can short-circuit the logic board.
- Do NOT use a hair dryer or heat gun — heat can damage internal components and push moisture deeper inside.
- Do NOT shake the phone vigorously — this can spread water to areas that were dry.
- Modern iPhones are water-resistant, not waterproof. Damage can still happen, especially from saltwater or pool water.
Parts You May Need
Step-by-Step Repair
- 1
Get the phone out of water and power it off immediately
Remove the phone from the water right away. If it is still on, power it off immediately — hold the Side button and Volume button, then slide to power off. Do not press any buttons more than necessary. Every second the phone stays on while wet increases the chance of a short circuit.
- 2
Dry the outside and remove the SIM card
Gently shake the phone with the charging port facing down to let water drain out. Wipe the outside with a lint-free cloth. Use the SIM tool to eject the SIM card tray — this opens a small hole that helps water escape. Pat the ports dry with a cloth, but do not insert anything into them.
- 3
Place in a drying environment for 48-72 hours
Put the phone in a sealed container or bag filled with silica gel packets. Silica gel absorbs moisture much better than rice (and rice dust can clog your ports). If you do not have silica gel, set the phone in a dry, well-ventilated room with the charging port facing down. Wait at least 48 hours. Do not give in to the temptation to check on it early.
- 4
Test the phone carefully
After 48-72 hours, try turning on the phone. If it powers on, check everything: screen, touch, cameras, speakers, microphone (make a call), and charging. Some features may work immediately while others take longer to recover as remaining moisture evaporates.
- 5
Clean corrosion if the phone was in saltwater or dirty water
Saltwater and pool water cause corrosion faster than fresh water. If possible, open the phone (using pentalobe and spudger) and gently brush the connectors with a soft brush dipped in 90%+ isopropyl alcohol. Alcohol displaces water and evaporates quickly without leaving residue. This step is advanced and optional.
If That Didn't Work
- Sweat and humidity over time can cause the same problems as a single water event.
- A cracked screen or damaged port seal reduces water resistance.
- Steam from a hot shower can cause internal condensation.
When to Call a Professional
If the phone does not turn on after 72 hours, or if it turns on but the screen, speakers, or microphone do not work, take it to a repair shop that specializes in water damage. They have ultrasonic cleaning equipment that can remove corrosion you cannot reach. Act fast — corrosion gets worse over time.
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Disclaimer: This guide is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute professional repair advice. All repairs are performed at your own risk. RepairItFree.com is not liable for any personal injury, property damage, device damage, voided warranties, or other losses resulting from the use of this information.
If you are unsure about any step — especially anything involving electricity, gas, water, or refrigerant — stop and consult a qualified professional. Your safety is more important than saving money.
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