How to Fix a Mobile Phone With Water Damage

Fixing a water-damaged cell phone can be done at home.

Dropping your mobile device in water can cause an increase in your stress level. Most of the time, this accident can be remedied using one of two solutions at home. The most important thing to do immediately is remove your phone's battery as soon as you can; this will help increase the chances of fixing your device. Set the battery aside and let it dry in the open air.

Things You'll Need

• Small container slightly larger than your cell phone
• Rubbing alcohol
• Zip top bag
• Rice

Instructions

Rubbing Alcohol

1. Remove the battery and battery cover from your device and set aside.

2. Place your device in the container and fill with rubbing alcohol. Completely submerge your device; you may have to weigh it down.

3. Leave submerged for 5 minutes. The alcohol will leach the water from your phone.

4. Allow the phone to dry for two hours while the alcohol evaporates.

5. Reassemble your phone and turn on.

Rice

1. Fill a plastic zip top bag with dry rice.

2. Remove the battery and battery cover from your device and set aside.

3. Place your phone in the bag and seal.

4. Allow to sit overnight. The rice will absorb the moisture in your phone, rendering it operable again.

5. Reassemble your phone and turn on.

Tips & Warnings

• In some cases, particularly if the water damage is too extensive, your phone may not be salvageable.

References

• Fiscal Geek: How to Revive your Water Damaged Cell Phone