If you are doing THIS, then don’t! Apple issues warning

If you are using THIS particular fix, then stop doing this immediately; Apple has officially advised its users against using this method

Matthew Cooper - Feb 22, 2024

An undated image of a phone placed on a bag of rice. — iStock

Have you ever used the fold remedy known as the rice bag technique when your phone, especially your iPhone, gets soaked either by accidentally slipping in the bathtub or falling into a pool?

If yes, then stop doing this immediately; especially if you own an iPhone. Apple has officially advised its users against using this method.

The Cupertino-based company, in a recent support note, stated: "Don’t put your iPhone in a bag of rice. Doing so could allow small particles of rice to damage your iPhone.”

How did this technique become famous?

When researching about this folk technique it was learnt that the origins can be traced back to the history of photography, where photographers used rice to maintain their cameras.

However, this method is not suitable for modern-day smartphones and can even cause further damage to the device, as testing has suggested uncooked rice is not particularly effective at drying the device.

What should be done if the phone gets wet?

Apple offers guidance for users who get a “liquid detected” alert when trying to charge their phones.

First, unplug the charging cable at both ends. Then tap the phone “gently against your hand with the connector facing down to remove excess liquid”. Leave it to dry for at least half an hour, and then – if the phone and cable are “completely dry” – try charging the device again.

If that attempt fails, try again a day later.

Apple’s new support documentation includes two other warnings if your phone gets doused:

“Don’t dry your iPhone using an external heat source or compressed air.”

“Don’t insert a foreign object, such as a cotton swab or a paper towel, into the connector.”

If your iPhone isn't working at all, turn it off immediately and don't press any buttons. Dry it with a towel and place it in an airtight container with silica packets if you have them. Charge it until dry

Remember the instructions for iPhones dropped in water, as liquid disaster can sneak up on even water-resistant phones.