It’s a scenario many of us dread – the accidental plunge of your beloved smartphone into a bowl of pasta sauce or a plate of spaghetti. But before you reach for the panic button, let’s dive into the myth and science of whether pasta can dry out a phone and explore the steps to potentially save your device.
Can Pasta Really Save Your Wet Phone?
1. The Myth: The notion that pasta can magically absorb moisture and rescue a waterlogged phone has circulated online. Some believe that submerging a wet phone in a bowl of uncooked rice or pasta will draw out the moisture and save the device.
2. The Reality: While rice has some moisture-absorbing properties, it’s not a guaranteed solution for saving a water-damaged phone. Rice can help, but it’s not a magic fix. Moreover, pasta, despite its grain-like appearance, is not designed for moisture absorption.
What Happens When Your Phone Gets Wet:
When your phone comes into contact with water or moisture, several things can occur:
1. Immediate Damage: Water can cause immediate damage to electronic components, leading to malfunctions or short circuits.
2. Corrosion: Prolonged exposure to moisture can result in corrosion of internal parts, which may render the device irreparable.
3. Screen Damage: Water can seep into the screen, causing discolouration, spots, or malfunctions.
4. Battery Issues: Water and batteries don’t mix. A wet battery can lead to power problems or even leakage.
What NOT to Do When Your Phone Gets Wet:
In our quest to rescue wet phones, there are some common misconceptions about what works and what doesn’t. Let’s explore the myths and misconceptions surrounding phone drying, so you can avoid potentially harmful practices and focus on effective solutions.
The Myth: Blowing Hot Air
The Myth: Some believe that using a hairdryer or a hot air source can quickly dry out a wet phone and save it from water damage.
The Reality: Blowing hot air directly onto a wet phone can do more harm than good. High temperatures can cause further damage, especially to sensitive internal components.
What to Do Instead: Instead of using heat, follow the proper steps for drying a wet phone, as outlined in the article above. Patience and moisture-absorbing materials are your best allies in this situation.
What to Do if Your Phone Gets Wet:
If your phone takes an unscheduled dip, follow these steps to potentially salvage it:
1. Power Off Immediately: Turn off your phone to prevent electrical damage. If it’s already off, do not attempt to turn it on.
2. Remove the Battery (if possible): If you have a removable battery, take it out. This step can prevent electrical connections from short-circuiting.
3. Dry the Exterior: Gently pat the phone with a dry cloth to remove surface moisture.
4. Avoid Heat Sources: Contrary to common belief, do not use hairdryers or other heat sources to dry the phone quickly. Heat can cause further damage.
5. Rice or Silica Gel: Place the phone in a sealed bag or container with a desiccant like silica gel or uncooked rice. These substances can help absorb moisture over time.
6. Seek Professional Help: If your phone does not show signs of recovery after a day or two, consider taking it to a professional technician who specializes in water-damaged devices.
Conclusion: Pasta Isn’t the Hero Here
While pasta might be an excellent dinner option, it’s not a superhero when it comes to drying out a phone. The myth of pasta saving your device is just that – a myth. When your phone encounters moisture, it’s essential to follow proper procedures like powering it off, removing the battery (if possible), and using moisture-absorbing materials like rice or silica gel.
Remember that the success of saving a water-damaged phone depends on various factors, including the extent of exposure to moisture and the speed of your response. In many cases, prompt and appropriate action can increase the chances of recovery. So, keep pasta on your plate and not in your phone-saving toolkit!
