Skip to main content

4-inch iPhone released in March 2016 with similar hardware specifications to the 6S. Available in Silver, Space Grey, Gold, or Rose Gold with 16/32/64/128 GB storage options. Model: A1662 and A1723

1046 Questions View all

Issue about dry out a iPhone SE that went through the washing machine.

Hi There.

Mu iphone SE went through the washing machine and stayed in there overnight. How can I best try to dry it out? Should I take off the cover and put it in rice or what? I just need to save the contacts and pictures. I have not turned it on yet, I understand that will fry it.

Any suggestion would be appreciated.

Thanks in advance.

Answered! View the answer I have this problem too

Is this a good question?

Score 0
Add a comment

1 Answer

Chosen Solution

Hi @roroeow7

As you know water and electronics and electricity are not a good mix.

The impurities in the water causes corrosion and provides circuit paths for the electricity which were not in the phone's operating design and could damage the components.

Rice is good to eat but does not fix the problems caused by corrosion.

Don't Put Your Device in Rice. Here's Why...

First do not turn on your phone and then you need to remove the battery as soon as possible from the phone to minimize further damage.

Then you need to completely dis-assemble the rest of the phone and clean all the affected parts using Isopropyl Alcohol 90%+ (available at electronics parts stores) to remove all traces of corrosion and water. Do not use "rubbing alcohol" as in some cases this is only 70% IPA or less, can contain scents and is not as effective. If you do check the label to verify the amount of IPA

Here is a link to the ifixit guide(s) for repairing your phone.

iPhone SE (1st Generation)

Here are a couple of links that describes the process.

Electronics Water Damage

Repairing iPhone Liquid Damage

You may have to replace the battery as it is very hard to recover a battery from prolonged water damage.

As always with electronics, especially surface mounted pcb be gentle when handling and especially when brushing away the corrosion. You do not want to remove any components from the boards.

Hopefully after you have done all this the phone might possibly work correctly again.

If this process seems too daunting, take your phone to a reputable, professional phone repair service, experienced in water damage repair and ask for a quote for a repair. If you decide to do this, do it sooner than later.

Was this answer helpful?

Score 4
Add a comment

Add your answer

roroeow7 will be eternally grateful.
View Statistics:

Past 24 Hours: 0

Past 7 Days: 0

Past 30 Days: 0

All Time: 90