How to eject water from iphone

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Last updated: April 4, 2026

Quick Answer: To eject water from your iPhone, gently tap it against your hand with the charging port facing down. Then, leave it in a dry, well-ventilated area to air dry for at least 5 hours, or ideally 24 hours. Avoid using heat sources or inserting foreign objects into the port.

Key Facts

Water resistance ratings vary by iPhone model, with newer models generally offering better protection.
iPhone 7 and later models have an IP rating (e.g., IP67, IP68) indicating their water and dust resistance.
Liquids can damage your iPhone even if it's rated as water-resistant; corrosion can occur over time.
Apple does not cover liquid damage under their standard warranty.
Drying your iPhone thoroughly is crucial to prevent internal component damage and corrosion.

Overview

Accidental spills and dunks happen. If your iPhone gets wet, the immediate concern is how to safely remove the water and prevent any potential damage to its internal components. Modern iPhones are designed with varying degrees of water resistance, but it's essential to understand that this doesn't make them waterproof. This guide will walk you through the recommended steps to eject water from your iPhone and ensure it dries properly.

Understanding Water Resistance

Apple has been incorporating water resistance into iPhones since the iPhone 7. The degree of resistance is indicated by an Ingress Protection (IP) rating. For example:

IP67: (iPhone 7, 7 Plus, 8, 8 Plus, X) Can withstand submersion in up to 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes.
IP68: (iPhone XS, XS Max, XR, 11 series, 12 series, 13 series, 14 series, 15 series) Can withstand submersion in up to 6 meters (for some models) or 4 meters (for others) of water for up to 30 minutes.

It's important to note that water resistance is not a permanent condition and can diminish over time due to normal wear and tear, drops, or repairs. Furthermore, these ratings apply to fresh water; exposure to salt water, chlorinated water, or other liquids can cause more significant damage.

Immediate Steps After Water Exposure

If your iPhone has been exposed to liquid, follow these steps promptly:

Disconnect Cables: If any cables are connected, unplug them immediately.
Power Off: If the iPhone is still on, power it off to prevent short circuits. If it shut down on its own, do not try to turn it back on.
Remove Excess Water: Gently hold your iPhone with the charging port facing downwards. Tap it gently against your hand to help dislodge any water that may have entered the port.
Wipe Dry: Use a soft, lint-free cloth (like a microfiber cloth) to wipe down the exterior of your iPhone. Pay attention to ports, buttons, and speaker grilles.

Drying Your iPhone

Proper drying is critical. Here's how to do it safely:

Air Dry: Place your iPhone in a dry area with good air circulation. Leave it in a position that allows air to flow around it, ideally with the charging port facing down.
Patience is Key: Allow your iPhone to air dry for at least 5 hours. Apple recommends waiting up to 24 hours before attempting to charge it or turn it back on. This extended period ensures that any residual moisture deep within the device has evaporated.

What NOT to Do

Certain methods can cause more harm than good. Avoid these:

Do Not Use Heat: Never use external heat sources like hairdryers, radiators, or ovens to dry your iPhone. Excessive heat can damage internal components and the battery.
Do Not Insert Objects: Do not insert cotton swabs, paper towels, or any other foreign objects into the charging port or other openings. This can push moisture further into the device or damage delicate connectors.
Do Not Shake Vigorously: While gentle tapping is okay, shaking your iPhone vigorously can spread liquid to other areas of the device.
Do Not Use Compressed Air: Compressed air can force water into sensitive areas and damage components.
Do Not Submerge in Rice: The common advice to submerge a wet device in rice is not recommended by Apple. Rice dust can get into ports and vents, and it's not an effective drying method.

After Drying

Once you believe your iPhone is thoroughly dry (after at least 24 hours of air drying), you can try turning it on. If it powers on normally, check its functionality. If you encounter any issues, such as speakers not working, charging problems, or display anomalies, it's best to seek professional assistance.

When to Seek Professional Help

If your iPhone continues to exhibit problems after following these drying procedures, or if you're concerned about the extent of the liquid exposure, contact Apple Support or visit an authorized Apple service provider. Liquid damage is not covered by Apple's standard one-year limited warranty, but they can diagnose the issue and provide repair or replacement options, which may incur a fee.