Does putting a wet phone in rice actually work? Here's the verdict on the popular myth

Written by Henrik Rothen

Dec.12 - 2023 11:31 AM CET

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Photo: Shutterstock.com
Photo: Shutterstock.com
Here's the verdict on the popular myth.

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Have you tried this rescue method?

If your phone has gotten wet, you're probably eager to save it. A frequently recommended solution is to put it in rice, but the question is, does this method actually work?

It's a common belief that rice can absorb water from a wet phone and thus save it.

Unfortunately, this is more myth than reality.

Rice can indeed absorb water, but it's not effective enough to draw moisture out of a phone. In fact, rice can even make the situation worse.

Problems with the rice method

While your phone is sitting in a container of rice, starch and dust from the rice can start to collect in the phone's cracks and openings.

This can lead to further damage, as the particles can potentially penetrate the phone.

In addition, rice is not able to draw enough water out of the phone to make a real difference.

If you've heard of cases where this method has apparently worked, it's probably not because of the rice.

It's more likely that the phone benefited from sitting undisturbed for 24 hours, which gives it time to dry out.

What to do instead

When your phone gets wet, it's important to act quickly. Turn off the phone and remove any removable parts.

Then, use compressed air or a hair dryer to gently dry it out. It's important to remove all visible traces of water as quickly as possible.

Then, it's just a matter of waiting and hoping for the best.

Water-resistant phones

Fortunately, there are now water-resistant phone models available, which are more resistant to water.

It's important to emphasize that these phones are water-resistant and not waterproof. There is still a risk of damage from direct contact with water.

Instead of resorting to rice, you should take steps to carefully dry your phone and let it rest.

Remember that modern solutions like water-resistant phones can offer some protection, but it's always best to avoid direct contact with water to ensure your phone's safety and lifespan.

According to DenOffentlige, a Danish news website, "The rice myth is just that: a myth. Rice is not an effective way to dry out a wet phone."

The website cites a study by the University of California, Riverside, which found that rice was only able to absorb about 13% of the water from a wet phone.

The study also found that rice could actually damage a wet phone by clogging its ports and openings with starch and dust.

If your phone gets wet, the best thing to do is to turn it off immediately and remove any removable parts. Then, use compressed air or a hair dryer to gently dry it out.

If you're concerned about the damage that water can cause to your phone, you may want to consider investing in a water-resistant phone.

These phones are designed to withstand exposure to water for a certain amount of time.

However, it's important to remember that even water-resistant phones are not completely waterproof.