# Don't put your phone in rice The right methods to save wet phones - **Source:** [The Verge (YouTube)](https://brifing.si/source/025904d5-0e7d-45b5-bc3a-df64e77cfcc8) - **Published:** 2026-08-18 - **Topic:** [Career Growth](https://brifing.si/c/growth) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/c241c1f4-aaa7-41b9-b60b-4b105c031b84 ## The rice myth For years, putting wet phones in a bowl of rice was believed to absorb moisture and save the device. However, this method is actually ineffective and can even be harmful. Rice grains can get into phone ports and block connections. Additionally, rice absorbs water too slowly, allowing corrosion to occur during the drying period. ## Immediate steps When your phone gets wet, first turn it off immediately and unplug any cables. Don't shake the device or use a hair dryer. Gently wipe the phone with a soft cloth to remove excess water. Check SIM trays and ports for visible moisture. These steps reduce the risk of short circuits while you prepare for proper drying. ## Silica gel advantage Silica gel packets work much better than rice for drying phones. These small white bags often come with new electronics. Silica gel absorbs moisture significantly faster than rice. Place the phone in an airtight container surrounded by silica gel packets. Leave it for 24-48 hours and ensure complete dryness before attempting to power on. ## Professional repair If your phone was heavily exposed to water or won't turn on, seek professional help. Authorized technicians use specialized drying equipment and can inspect internal components. Many modern phones have liquid damage indicators that may void warranties. Quick professional intervention increases recovery chances significantly. ## Water resistance myths Even IP67 or IP68 rated phones aren't completely waterproof. These ratings apply only to specific depths and durations. Saltwater or soapy water causes more damage than freshwater. Water resistance degrades over time as seals wear out. Avoid exposing your phone to water whenever possible despite its rating. ## Alternative drying methods Air drying remains one of the safest approaches. Place the device in a cool, dry area, preferably with some airflow. Avoid extreme heat which can damage components. Vacuum drying can be effective but household vacuum cleaners aren't suitable. Never use ovens or microwaves as they can cause permanent damage. ## Long-term damage risks Water damage symptoms may appear gradually. Corrosion can slowly degrade circuits and reduce performance over time. Battery life may shorten, buttons could become unresponsive, or screen discoloration might develop. Software issues may also emerge in water-exposed devices. Regular backups are crucial to prevent data loss. ## Preventive measures Waterproof cases and screen protectors are worthwhile investments. Avoid using phones near pools or beaches. Consider waterproof bags for unexpected rain. Keep devices away from steamy environments like bathrooms. Simple precautions can prevent expensive repairs and extend your phone's lifespan significantly. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.youtube.com/shorts/1elehPXsXMY — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._