If your iPhone gets wet, do you think of putting it in a bag or a bowl of rice to absorb moisture? Many people have believed that this is an effective way to salvage their beloved phone. However, Apple has warned that this is a bad idea and could damage your device.
According to Apple's support page, you should not put your wet iPhone in a bag of rice. "Doing so could cause small rice grains to damage your iPhone," the website says. Apple also advises you not to use an external heat source or compressed air to dry your iPhone.
So what should you do if you get a liquid detection alert on your iPhone? Apple suggests you should unplug the Lightning or USB-C cable from your iPhone and from the power adapter or accessory. Do not plug the cable back in until your iPhone and cable are completely dry. To remove excess liquid and dry your iPhone, gently tap it on your hand with the connector facing down. Then leave your iPhone in a dry area with some airflow. It may take at least 30 minutes, try charging your iPhone. If you see the alert again, leave your iPhone in a dry area with some airflow as it may take a day to fully dry; during this time, you can try charging it again.
Apple also says that if your iPhone gets wet by seawater, water containing chlorine or beverages, you may want to rinse it in clean water. You can see how to do that on Apple's website.
Putting a wet phone in rice is not a new method, but an urban legend that has existed for a long time. Many tech experts have debunked it as an ineffective and potentially problematic method. Rice cannot absorb moisture better than air, and it may leave dust or starch on your phone. Moreover, putting your phone in rice may also delay you from taking it to a professional repair center, making the situation worse.
Therefore, if you do not want to ruin your iPhone, stay away from rice and follow Apple's instructions. That is the best way to protect your device from liquid damage.