Got water in your device’s charging port? Sticking it in a bowl of rice or blowing on it might cause more harm than good! Whether it's your phone, iPad, power bank, or another device, learn how to get water out of charging port through safe, effective ways and avoid further damage.

In this article:

• How to Get Water Out of Charging Port: What to Do and Not to Do
  • What Should You Avoid Doing First?
  • How to Dry Charging Port Safely: Tips and Techniques
• How Long Should You Wait Before Turning Your Phone On?
• When to Visit a Professional Repair Center

Let’s get started!

How to Get Water Out of Charging Port: What to Do and Not to Do

Many modern smartphones, iPads, power banks, and other devices come with IP ratings like IP67 or IP68, offering some protection against water and dust. However, these protections are not foolproof. Prolonged exposure, saltwater, or worn seals can still lead to moisture damage. Taking quick action to dry your device is essential to minimize risks. First, let’s discuss what you should avoid doing first:

What Should You Avoid Doing First?

• Don’t Charge It: Charging a device with water in the port can cause permanent damage. To safeguard your device and avoid the risk of electric shocks, do not charge it if the port is wet or in an area where it might be exposed to water.
• Stop Blowing Into the Port: Blowing into the port might seem quick, but it risks introducing saliva or more moisture, which can worsen the problem.
• Avoid Using Rice: While popular, rice is ineffective and can leave particles in your port.
• Don’t Insert Sharp Objects: Tools like pins or metal picks can scratch or harm the port’s delicate pins.
• Avoid Heat Sources: No matter how tempting it is, skip the hair dryer, microwave, or any heat sources. Excessive heat can warp internal components or damage seals.
• Don't Place Your Device in Direct Sunlight to Dry: It's okay to dry your device outside in warm weather, but avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures. Putting it in direct sunlight can cause it to overheat and cause more damage.
• Avoid Alcohol Unless Necessary: While 99% isopropyl alcohol can help displace water, improper application may risk further damage. Use it only as a last resort with care.

How to Dry Charging Port Safely: Tips and Techniques

Here are different tips and techniques on how to dry charging port safely:

Immediate Actions: What To Do Right After Water Exposure

• Switch Off Your Device: Turn off your device immediately after noticing the warning. This helps prevent electrical shorts or further damage.
• Shake Out Excess Water: Hold your device with the charging port facing downward and gently shake it to remove visible water droplets. Avoid aggressive shaking to prevent internal damage.

Drying Methods: 4 Effective Ways You Can Try at Home

Here are some different techniques on how to dry charging port:

• Method #1: Use Air Circulation

Place your device in a dry, well-ventilated area with the charging port facing upward, and allow natural airflow to aid drying for at least 5 hours. To speed up the process, you can use a small fan blowing cool air into the port. If you don’t have a fan, try drying the charging port near an electrical appliance with an exhaust vent, such as behind your computer or TV. Just be sure to avoid using hot air or heat sources like hair dryers, as they can damage internal components.

• Method #2: Try Desiccants

Place your device in a sealed bag with silica gel packets (commonly found in shoe boxes or electronics packaging). Silica gel is a powerful desiccant that absorbs moisture.

• Method #3: Tissue Twirl

Roll a tissue into a thin point, gently insert it into the charging port, and twist it around to absorb moisture. Be careful not to push too hard to avoid damaging the internal connectors.

• Method #4: Use the Sonic App

If you’re comfortable, use the Sonic app (or a similar tool) on another device to emit vibrations. You can place your device near the app's speaker to ensure the vibrations reach your device’s charging port.

How Long Should You Wait Before Turning Your Phone On?

If water gets into your device’s charging port, wait at least 5 hours before turning it on again, even if there’s no warning message, as some devices like power banks don’t have screens. If you suspect water is still inside, power off the device and let it dry for a few more hours. 

Don’t try to charge it during this time, as it could cause permanent damage. If your device was submerged in water, wait 24–48 hours to ensure all moisture has dried out. Knowing how to get water out of charging port and giving it enough time to dry properly is key to avoiding long-term damage.

Important Reminder: Always handle the device, charger, and cables with completely dry hands to avoid further damage.

When to Visit a Professional Repair Center

If your device has been exposed to moisture for an extended period, watch for these signs of sustained damage:

• Visible corrosion on the charging port.
• Black screen (for devices with screen), or the device won’t turn on.
• Overheating, which could indicate battery damage.
• Distorted audio or malfunctioning speakers.
• Foggy screen that can’t be cleaned.

• “No SIM Card” error, even when a SIM card is inserted for phones.

If you notice any of these, it’s best to visit a professional repair center to check for damage and repair it as needed.

Conclusion: Better Safe Than Sorry

Accidentally getting water in your charging port can be stressful, but knowing what to avoid—and how to get water out of charging port properly and safely—makes all the difference. By steering clear of harmful methods like using rice, heat sources, or sharp objects, and instead opting for safe drying techniques like airflow, silica gel, or gentle tissue twirls, you can protect your device and minimize damage. 

Remember, patience is key. Resist the urge to charge your phone or use emergency overrides until you’re certain the port is completely dry. If moisture exposure has caused significant damage, don’t hesitate to consult a professional repair service to prevent further issues, as they have more knowledge on how to dry charging port properly. After all, it’s better to be safe than sorry!

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a charging port take to dry?

It typically takes up to 24 hours for a charging port to dry fully, but it's essential to ensure no moisture remains before using the device again. Unplugging and reconnecting cables after some time can help resolve charging issues if the device seems dry but still won't charge.

Can I dry my phone with a hair dryer?

Using a hair dryer or compressed air is not recommended, as it can blow moisture further into the device or cause damage due to high heat. Freezing your device is also not a viable solution, as it can stop short-circuiting temporarily but doesn't address the underlying issue. Devices should not be placed in a tumble dryer or on a radiator either due to potential overheating and internal damage.

Can you still use a charger if it got wet?

It's crucial not to charge a device while the port is wet or in a moist environment, as it could lead to electric shock or further damage. Always ensure both the device and your hands are dry before handling the charger.

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