Have you ever taken your iPhone near a pool, beach or simply dropped it in the toilet? It happens to the best of us. Water damage can be one of the worst things that could happen to electronic devices, including iPhones.
The camera is one of the most important features of an iPhone. But what do you do if water gets into the lens or the camera body itself? You don’t want to risk permanent damage by letting moisture sit inside.
Luckily, there are some easy tips and tricks you can try at home to get water out of your iPhone’s camera without causing any further damage. These methods range from quick fixes like shaking and drying techniques to more involved ones like using uncooked rice or silica gel crystals.
“Prevention is better than cure.” – Desiderius Erasmus
Prevention is always key when it comes to electronics and water. Understanding how to protect your iPhone will save you time, money, and frustration in the future. This article will guide you on not only the best way to remove water from an iPhone camera but also preventative measures to keep your phone safe from water damage.
Quick Fixes To Try At Home
Rice Bath
If your iPhone camera has been exposed to water, the first thing you should do is turn off your device and avoid turning it back on. Don’t try to charge it or connect it to other devices either, as this could cause a short-circuit.
The next step is to try the rice bath method. This involves placing your phone in a container entirely filled with uncooked rice and leaving it there for at least 24 hours. Rice is incredibly absorbent and will help draw out any moisture from your phone, including the camera.
“Rice works because it absorbs moisture,” says Shane Broesky, CEO of Farbe Technik, which specializes in phone repair. “Leave the phone in there for about 48-72 hours.”
After the specified time, take your phone out of the rice container and check if the camera works normally. If not, repeat the process until all moisture is removed from your device.
Silica Gel Packets
An alternative option to using rice is using silica gel packets. These are small bags that typically come inside packaging when buying electronics, shoes or clothing. Silica gel contains beads that work similarly to rice but can be more effective in removing moisture.
To use silica gel packets, place them together with your iPhone in an airtight container and leave them overnight. The following day, remove the packet and test your camera.
If those two methods didn’t fix the issue, you might need to wait longer or consider taking your phone to a professional who may have additional tools and techniques to bring your iPhone’s camera back to life.
“Silica gel gets very warm during its reaction period and will burn you if taken out too early or handled with bare hands,” says Jyoti Dedhia from Arrowhead Forensics. “If you’re using this method, make sure to seal the phone and packets separately in a ziplock or plastic bag.”
Air Dry Method
The air dry method is another option that may work for your iPhone camera. This involves leaving your device exposed to natural airflow for several hours.
Firstly, turn off your iPhone and remove any case, sim card tray, headphones jack or charging port that could trap moisture inside. Place your phone on something dry and clean such as a paper towel and let it sit at room temperature without being moved for 12-24 hours.
If you have access to a fan, place it so that it blows gently over your device, but not directly onto it. The extra airflow will help speed up the process of drying anything remaining moist in your camera lens or elsewhere in your phone.
“The air dry method works well when there is a small amount of water in the lens area,” according to tech experts from Techwalla.
After waiting some time has passed, check if your camera has started working normally. If not, then repeat the process by letting your phone sit for longer periods until all moisture evaporates.
If these methods do not work within three days, consider taking further action. Avoid opening devices yourself and take them to an expert who can more efficiently analyze the situation. Lastly, keep your device away from humid and wet places and use protective gear like waterproof cases if necessary.
Tools You Will Need
Ziplock Bag
A Ziplock bag is an essential tool for removing water from your iPhone camera. It will help to protect your device from further damage, and assist in drying out the moisture inside.
To use a Ziplock bag, start by turning off your phone immediately after it gets wet. Remove any external casing or protective covers that might trap water on the surface of your device. Dry your device with a towel as best you can before placing it inside the Ziplock bag. Keep the phone in this condition for at least 24 hours – this will give enough time for the moisture to evaporate completely and the dryness level to return to normal.
Microfiber Cloth
A microfiber cloth is an excellent tool for wiping away excess water from your iPhone camera lens. This high-quality fabric absorbs moisture quickly and does not leave streaks on the glass surface.
Gently clean and dry the lens with a microfiber cloth while attempting to absorb all visible signs of water droplets. Avoid excessive pressure that could damage the lens coating or scratch the surface when cleaning off mist from turning on/off the camera flash. In case there are any debris present next to the realm around the camera, try using a toothpick gently coated with cotton to swipe off whilst not applying too much weight.
Compressed Air Canister
A compressed air canister is ideal for cleaning out the crevices of your iPhone’s camera component. It removes stubborn stains, dust, and microscopic particles that may hamper its performance and quality.
Blow bursts of compressed air towards the camera openings, keeping the airflow consistent and gentle throughout the exposed surfaces. Alternatively, tilt down slightly to restrict airflow and prevent impact. The nozzle should be held at a decent distance to avoid damaging the interior of the phone, especially when blowing air in around corners.
Toothbrush
If your iPhone’s camera lens is dirty and wet, you can gently scrub it with a toothbrush. Use a soft-bristled brush so that you don’t scratch the surface of the glass. Alternatively, for better results, purchase an official Apple cleaning kit- which comes with suitable contents for effectively and securely wiping phone surfaces.
Dip the tip of the bristles into rubbing alcohol or optical cleaner then gently rub along the invisible circle surrounding the built-in lens assembly while not going overboard with this method.
“I find toothbrushes are great for those stubborn details just near the lens,” says Justin Bailie from Digital Photography School. “Just make sure they’re super clean before using them on your gear.”
You must take care to dry off your device entirely after performing these steps to reduce any further damage caused by water-induced corrosion. If the problem persists even after attempting all necessary procedures, contact Apple for assistance, or seek advice from professional authorized technicians who specialize in mobile repair services.
Follow proper maintenance procedures afterward to prevent the issue from happening again and make sure your device is well protected with drop, break and water-resistant casings as prevention is always better than cure!
Step-By-Step Guide
Turn Off Your iPhone Camera
The first step in getting water out of your iPhone camera is to turn off the device immediately. This will prevent any electrical damage that might happen due to water interference.
Remove The Case And SIM Card
Once you have turned off your iPhone, remove its case and SIM card immediately. Removing the SIM card will ensure that no water gets inside the internal parts of the phone or cause a short circuit. If the case itself is wet, it can also be one of the sources of moisture, so it needs to be taken out as well.
Wipe Off Excess Water
If there’s excess water on the surface of your iPhone, gently wipe it off using a dry cloth. Avoid rubbing too hard, as this could only push water deeper into the crevices or even scratch the surface of the phone. Don’t let any water get into the charging ports or headphone jack while wiping down the exterior of your phone.
Use Compressed Air And Toothbrush
To effectively remove water from your iPhone camera lens, use compressed air and a soft-bristled toothbrush brush. Hold the tip of the canister upright about 10cm away from the camera lens and press the trigger button, aiming to blast away any remaining droplets of liquid. Next, lightly rub the bristles of your toothbrush over the area around the camera lens to dislodge any remaining water molecules still clinging to the device’s delicate components.
“Water damage does not always seem drastic at the outset, but high levels of humidity inside an electronic device can lead to corrosion and permanent damage to the metal connectors.” -Donald Sadoway
It’s important to keep in mind that water damage is both common and consequential, so you need to act fast when dealing with it. Follow these simple steps given above to remove any excess moisture from your iPhone camera lens as quickly as possible and prevent any further damage. Although there are different techniques you can use, compressed air and a soft-bristled toothbrush prove organically safe methods for drying out electronics without posing a risk of electrical interference or other forms of physical harm.
Pro-tip: Don’t forget to wait at least 24 hours before returning the SIM card, battery and powering on your phone, allowing ample time for all components to dry completely, even if they appear otherwise dry after using compressed air and brushing over with a toothbrush brush.
How To Prevent Water Damage In The Future
Accidents happen, and water damage to your iPhone is always a possibility. But there are steps you can take to prevent it from happening in the future.
Use Waterproof Cases
If you’re going to be around water or engaging in activities that involve potential splashing or exposure to moisture, invest in a good waterproof case for your iPhone. This will provide an added layer of protection against accidental drops or spills, as well as full immersion in water.
There are numerous brands available, so do your research and read reviews to find one that fits your needs and budget.
“Buying a waterproof case could save you a lot of money in the long run if you’re someone that spends a lot of time near water.” -CNET
Keep Your iPhone Away From Water
This might seem like a no-brainer, but sometimes we forget just how easily water can damage our iPhones. Avoid bringing your phone into the bathroom while showering or using the sink, and be cautious when placing it on surfaces near water.
It’s also important to keep your phone dry during inclement weather, such as heavy rain or snowstorms. If you need to use your phone outside during these conditions, consider investing in a waterproof pouch or bag to protect it.
Be Careful When Taking Photos Near Water
If you love taking photos around bodies of water, whether it’s at the beach or by a pool, be extra careful with your iPhone. Accidental splashes or drops can occur, even if you think you have a good grip on your device.
Avoid leaning too close to the edge of a pool or over a body of water, and consider using a selfie stick or other tool to extend your reach. Be aware of the angles you’re shooting at, and try to avoid taking risks that could result in expensive water damage.
Use A Protective Screen Cover
A good screen cover can protect your iPhone from scratches, cracks, and even some minor spills. But did you know that some covers are designed specifically for water protection?
If you’re looking for an added safety net against water damage, consider investing in a protective screen cover that’s been specially designed to repel moisture. Some options also come with additional features such as anti-glare or anti-fingerprint coatings!
“While not completely waterproof, a good screen protector will add extra protection by covering the vulnerable areas around the home button.” -TechRadar
By taking these steps, you can help prevent costly water damage to your iPhone camera. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or caught in a sudden rainstorm, it pays to have a plan in place to protect your device.
When To Seek Professional Help:
If your iPhone camera has internal damage:
If you have accidentally dropped your iPhone into water, there is a high possibility that the internal parts of the camera are also damaged. This can lead to blurred images or even a completely non-functional camera.
The best solution for this problem is taking it to a professional repair center where they will open up your phone and fix any broken circuits. Trying to fix it yourself may only aggravate the issue and make things worse.
“Water damages the motherboard and other components within the iPhone. Once the motherboard begins to fail, there’s little chance of fixing the device” said Kyle Wiens, CEO of iFixit.com.
If the camera lens is cracked or damaged:
A damaged camera lens can cause blurry photos or prevent the camera from functioning altogether. You should immediately take your phone to an authorized Apple service provider if you notice scratches or cracks on the camera lens. They will assess the extent of the damage and replace the camera glass for you.
It is highly recommended not to try repairing the camera lens yourself as it is delicate and intricate work which requires specialized equipment and expertise. Attempting it without proper knowledge can permanently damage the camera module leading to costly repairs in the future.
“Replacing a cracked lens involves opening up both the front and back side of the iPhone 11 with tens of screws, then carefully replacing the bad camera lens while avoiding frying the nearby circuit board or damaging the other essential tiny ribbon cables inside.” – Jack Turner, Business Insider.
In some cases, the professionals might tell you that the damage is beyond repair and suggest a replacement instead. If that happens, it’s always better to listen to their advice and opt for a new phone rather than trying to fix it yourself.
Preventing Water Damage:
The best way to avoid the above-mentioned problems is to prevent water damage to your iPhone in the first place. Here are some tips for avoiding water ingress into the camera module:
- Use a waterproof case or pouch when you go swimming, snorkeling, or engage in any activity that involves water exposure.
- Avoid taking pictures near bodies of water such as pools, lakes, or oceans, especially if there’s a risk of falling in.
- If you get caught in unexpected rain while out with your phone, store it securely inside your bag or pocket rather than exposing it directly to precipitation.
- Never use makeshift methods like placing your phone in rice or using a hair dryer to dry it; this can cause irreversible damage and should only be done by professionals with specialized equipment.
Remember, prevention is always better than cure! So keep your phone safe from water damage and take prompt action whenever you notice an issue with your iPhone camera. Following these simple steps will save you money, time, and effort in the future.
Conclusion: Save Your iPhone Camera From Water Damage
Act Quickly And Follow The Steps
If your iPhone camera gets wet, it’s important to act quickly to prevent damage. The longer the water sits in your phone, the more severe the damage can be.
The first step is to turn off your iPhone immediately and do not attempt to charge or use it until it has been properly dried out. Remove any accessories such as cases or screen protectors that may trap moisture inside your phone.
You can try shaking out any excess water through the charging port or headphone jack, but avoid using a hair dryer or any other heat source as this can further damage your device.
Next, you’ll need to dry out the phone. One popular method is to place your iPhone in a bowl of uncooked rice for 24-48 hours. Rice will absorb moisture from your phone without causing any harm.
You can also try using a silica gel packet (such as the ones found in shoe boxes) or a dedicated phone drying kit, which uses desiccant beads and a specialized container to draw out moisture.
After the phone has been allowed to fully dry, test it out by turning it back on. If everything works normally, then congratulations! You managed to save your iPhone camera from water damage!
Take Preventative Measures To Avoid Future Damage
Of course, preventing water damage in the first place is always preferable to trying to fix it after the fact. Here are some tips to keep your iPhone camera safe:
- Avoid taking your phone swimming or into the shower with you.
- Invest in a waterproof case if you plan on using your phone near water frequently.
- Never charge your phone if it’s wet or even damp.
- If you do accidentally get your phone wet, use the steps outlined above to dry it out as quickly as possible.
“Water damage in iPhones can sometimes go unnoticed for months and result in problems later down the line.” -Melanie Pinola, Lifehacker
Keeping your iPhone camera safe from water damage requires a combination of caution and quick action. By following these steps and taking preventative measures, you can ensure that your device stays functional and lasts longer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can rice really help remove water from an iPhone camera?
Yes, rice can help remove water from an iPhone camera. The rice acts as an absorbent and draws out the moisture from the camera. Place the phone in a bowl of uncooked rice and leave it for at least 24 hours. The rice will help to absorb the moisture and remove it from the camera.
What are other household items that can be used to dry out a wet iPhone camera?
Silica gel packets, cat litter, and oatmeal can also be used to dry out a wet iPhone camera. These items work in the same way as rice, by absorbing the moisture from the camera. Place the phone in a sealable bag with the item of your choice and leave it for at least 24 hours to allow the moisture to be drawn out.
Is it possible to remove water from an iPhone camera without taking it apart?
Yes, it is possible to remove water from an iPhone camera without taking it apart. By using the rice or other absorbent household items, the moisture can be drawn out of the camera without the need for disassembly. However, if the camera continues to malfunction, it may need to be taken apart for further repairs.
What are some professional techniques for removing water from an iPhone camera?
Professional techniques for removing water from an iPhone camera include using a desiccant, which is a specialized drying agent that quickly absorbs moisture. Another technique is to use a vacuum chamber, which can remove moisture from the camera by creating a low-pressure environment. It is recommended to seek professional help for these techniques, as they can be dangerous if not done correctly.
How long does it take for an iPhone camera to dry out after exposure to water?
The time it takes for an iPhone camera to dry out after exposure to water varies depending on the severity of the exposure. It can take anywhere from 24 hours to several days for the camera to fully dry out. During this time, it is important to avoid turning on the phone and to leave it in a dry, warm place to aid in the drying process.