How to Get Water Out of iPhone Charging Port: Don't Do This!

Got a ‘Liquid Detected’ alert on your iPhone? Don’t panic—and definitely don’t blow on it, toss it in rice, or place it in direct sunlight! These common mistakes can make things worse. Instead, let’s walk through what you should and shouldn’t do on how to get water out of iPhone charging port safely and resolve the alert.
In this article:
- Water in iPhone Charging Port: What You Should Know
- How to Get Water Out of iPhone Charging Port: Tips and Tricks
- How Long Should You Wait Before Charging?
- Can You Charge Your iPhone While It’s Wet in an Emergency?
- When to Seek Professional Help?
Let’s get started!
Water in iPhone Charging Port: What You Should Know
Your iPhone's "Liquid Detected" warning is there to protect your device from damage caused by water or other conductive materials in the charging port. But what does this warning actually mean, and how should you handle it? Let’s break it down and address some common misunderstandings.
“Liquid Detected” Warning: What Does It Mean?
Your iPhone is equipped with advanced sensors that detect moisture or liquid in the charging port. When triggered, you might see alerts like:
- "Liquid detected in Lightning Connector": This warning appears when a connected Lightning accessory detects liquid and stops charging to protect your device.
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"Liquid Detected": This shows up when a USB-C accessory is connected and moisture or another conductive substance is detected.
These alerts are important safety measures because charging your iPhone when the port is damp can cause short circuits, corrosion, or even permanent damage. The warning gives your device time to dry out properly before you use it again, helping to prevent further issues.
It’s also important to keep in mind that dust, dirt, or other debris can sometimes trigger the same warning. These things can cause conductivity in the port, making it seem like there's liquid inside when there isn’t.
If You Suspect Dust or Dirt is Causing The Issue:
Sometimes, you might get an alert even if your iPhone hasn’t come into direct contact with water. This can happen in humid environments or if there’s dust or lint around the charging port. High moisture in the air can cause condensation inside the port, while tiny particles combined with slight moisture can trigger the warning. Here’s what you can do if that’s the case:
- Step 1: Use a flashlight to inspect the charging port for visible obstructions.
- Step 2: Try gently blowing air into the port or using a small fan to dislodge particles. While blowing into the port might temporarily clear the issue, it’s not a reliable long-term fix.
- Step 3: Avoid poking around inside the port with sharp or pointed objects, as this could damage internal components.
How to Get Water Out of iPhone Charging Port: Tips and Tricks
Knowing what to avoid when drying your phone is just as important as knowing how to get water out of iPhone charging port. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:
Removing Water in iPhone Charging Port: What Not to Do
- Charging While Wet: Even a small amount of water in iPhone charging port can corrode internal components, leading to permanent damage. Never plug in your iPhone until it’s completely dry.
- Using Heat Sources: Hairdryers, ovens, or other heat sources can damage sensitive components inside your iPhone.
- Direct Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to intense sunlight may cause overheating, which can worsen the issue.
- Compressed Air: Blasting air into the port may push moisture further into the device.
- Avoid Placing iPhone in Rice: While it’s a popular myth, placing your phone in rice can cause more harm. Rice particles can get stuck in the port, creating additional issues.
- Inserting Foreign Objects: Avoid using cotton swabs, paper towels, or toothpicks to dry the port—they can damage the pins or scratch the connectors.
Tips on How to Get Water Out of iPhone Charging Port Safely
Even though newer iPhone models (starting from the iPhone 7) are designed to be water- and dust-resistant with a rating of either IP68 or IP67, this resistance can diminish over time due to natural wear. Follow these steps to safely remove water in iPhone charging port:
- Step 1: Unplug Accessories Immediately: Disconnect any cables or accessories from your iPhone, and don’t attempt to charge it until it’s completely dry. Apple recommends waiting at least 5 hours before charging or reconnecting accessories.
- Step 2: Gently Remove Excess Liquid: Lightly tap your iPhone with the charging port facing downward to help dislodge trapped liquid. Avoid shaking it vigorously, as this might push moisture deeper into the device.
- Step 3: Allow Time for Drying: Place your phone in a dry area with good airflow and let it dry naturally. Avoid rushing the process—it can take up to 24 hours for all the moisture to evaporate.
- Step 4: Test the Port: After at least 30 minutes, try connecting a charging cable or accessory. If the liquid warning persists, continue to let your device dry for a longer period.
Other Effective Drying Methods
For faster results, consider these additional techniques on how to get water out of iPhone charging port:
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Promote Airflow
Position your device in a well-ventilated area with the charging port facing up. To speed things up, use a fan set to a low setting to circulate cool air near the port. Avoid high heat or direct airflow into the port.
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Use Silica Gel Packets
Seal your iPhone in a bag with silica gel packets (often found in packaging for shoes or electronics). These packets absorb moisture effectively and are safer than rice.
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Tissue Technique
Roll a small piece of tissue into a thin point, carefully insert it into the charging port, and twist gently to soak up moisture. Be cautious to avoid damaging internal components.
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Sonic App for Vibrations
Download a Sonic app like Sonic V or Water Eject, which emits vibrations to help push moisture out of the charging port. Follow the app’s instructions and use this method alongside other drying techniques for the best results.
How Long Should You Wait Before Charging?
Apple recommends waiting at least 5 hours before attempting to charge your iPhone after it gets wet. If the “Liquid Detected” alert persists after this time, it might take up to 24 hours for the port to dry completely.
Can You Charge Your iPhone While It’s Wet in an Emergency?
In emergencies, you can override the warning to charge your iPhone. However, this comes with significant risks, including long-term damage. A safer alternative is using a wireless charger if the back of your iPhone is completely dry.
When to Seek Professional Help?
If the warning persists after 24-48 hours, or if you notice any of the following, it's time to seek professional help:
- Reduced charging capacity: The phone won’t charge past a certain percentage.
- Erratic behavior: Random shutdowns or strange behavior may indicate internal damage.
- Persistent moisture warning: If the warning doesn’t go away despite your phone being dry.
Wrapping It Up: Don’t Fall for Quick Fixes
Dealing with a "Liquid Detected" warning can feel alarming, but knowing how to get water out of iPhone charging port—and what to avoid—makes all the difference. Resist the urge to use quick fixes like rice or heat, as they often do more harm than good. Instead, take your time and use safe, proven methods like allowing natural drying, promoting airflow, or using silica gel packets.
Remember, your iPhone's moisture detection feature is there to protect it, so don’t rush the process. While emergencies may tempt you to override the warning, it’s always best to prioritize your device’s long-term health over short-term convenience.
If the alert persists or you notice unusual behavior even after removing water in iPhone charging port, seek professional assistance. Taking these steps not only ensures your device’s safety but also saves you from costly repairs down the line. Got some great tips? Feel free to drop them in the comments!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I dry my iPhone with a hair dryer?
It’s best to avoid using a hair dryer, compressed air, or placing your iPhone in a freezer. While these methods may seem like quick fixes, they can do more harm than good. Stick to safer methods for getting water out of your iPhone’s charging port, as mentioned above.
Will my iPhone eventually dry out?
Yes, your iPhone should dry out eventually. Apple recommends waiting up to 24 hours for the device to fully dry, as long as you've taken the necessary steps to remove water from the charging port. During this time, avoid using heat sources or compressed air, as these can make the problem worse and may cause additional damage to your phone.
Why is my iPhone charging liquid detected but not wet?
If you’re seeing the “Liquid Detected” warning but your iPhone isn’t visibly wet, it could be due to dust, dirt, or other debris in the charging port. These obstructions can create conductivity, triggering the liquid detection alert. It could also be caused by a damaged cable or accessory. If the warning only appears when using a particular cable or accessory, try replacing it. If the alert persists with an Apple Lightning or USB-C accessory, it might be time to seek professional help.
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