Do you think throwing a wet electronic gear into a bag of rice restores it to a working state?
Unfortunately, that technique won’t do anything for it.
It’s time that we end this misconception and embrace the real solution.
Why Is Rice a Myth for Fixing Water Damage?
Well, don’t.
They probably concluded this because of rice’s semblance to silica gel, which extracts water.
Image Credit: Marco Verch Professional Photographer/Flickr
Why Is Rice Bad for Fixing Water Damage?
You might wonder, “What’s so bad about using rice for water damage?”
A lot could go wrong.
Rice grains are tiny and can get into spaces and ports that already have moisture in them.
With enough time, food and water in a small area can yield mold.
And mold is never good anywhere, much less your laptop’s motherboard or phone’s panel.
Image Credit: Marco Verch Professional Photographer/Flickr
Rice will, in fact, cause more harm than good.
It can hold moisture in your rig for longer and increase the likelihood of corrosion.
There are better options; you’ll see!
Here are a few simple steps to take when your unit gets wet.
This is dangerous, so you should switch it off immediately.
If possible, take out its battery and other removable parts, like the SIM card tray.
This will give them maximum air exposure, helping them dry off.
Dry It Out
Gently blot the rig with a soft cloth to remove any remaining moisture.
you’re able to dab the unit with rubbing alcohol to stimulate drying.
However, use this sparingly.
Also, avoid using paper towels or tissue, as they may leave particles that can cause further damage.
Silica packets can help absorb moisture as well.
Get Professional Help
Once the gadget is relatively dry, inspect it for any signs of damage.
If you spot any issues, take the gadget to a professional repair service.
Prevention Is Key
Preventing water damage is preferable to fixing it later.
After all, no one wants the stress and hassle of drying out their gadgets.
Furthermore, repairing wet electronics can get expensive, or worse; you’ll have to replace them altogether.
If possible, do not use your equipment near water.
You should also avoid humid environments, if possible, to prevent moisture from forming within it.
After all, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
