Stop Using Rice_ Better Ways to Remove Water from Electronics

1. We've all had that heart-dropping moment—your phone slips from your hand and lands right in the sink, toilet, or even a cup of water. The first thought many people have is, “Quick! Put it in rice!” But we’re here to help you understand why that might not be the best idea. Yes, using rice to dry out your phone or other electronics is popular advice. But it’s not as effective as people think. In fact, rice can be slow at drying and might even leave behind tiny bits of dust or starch, which could end up inside your device. Instead, there are better, safer ways to try and save your wet electronics. First, turn off the device right away. Keeping it on could cause the water to damage the internal parts. Then, do your best to dry the outside using a clean towel. If possible, remove any pieces you can, like the battery, SIM card, or memory card, to let air reach more of the inside. A good next step is to place your device in front of a fan or near some airflow. This works much faster than rice. You should also try using silica gel packets—the little packs you find in new shoe boxes or bags. These are made to absorb moisture and can help draw water out of your gadget more effectively. If your phone's speaker sounds fuzzy or muffled after getting wet, there's a handy tool you can try: https://fix-myspeaker.com. It uses sound waves to shake water out of your speaker. Many users report success using it after minor water accidents. And let’s be honest—not all water damage can be fixed at home. If your device still doesn’t work after trying these steps, it’s smart to take it to a repair shop. Acting quickly gives you the best chance of saving your electronics. In short, skip the rice. Use airflow, silica gel, and simple drying steps instead. It might not be magic, but it’s a much better shot at getting your phone or gadget back to normal again. Just remember—water and electronics don’t mix, so the faster you act, the better your chances.