When a mobile phone takes a tumble into the water, a common piece of advice is to submerge it in dry rice for a few days. But why is this, and does it actually work?

Rice is often recommended for drying out wet electronics because of its impressive ability to absorb moisture. This property is due to the hygroscopic nature of rice, meaning it naturally attracts and holds onto water molecules.

When a phone gets wet, water can seep into its delicate internal components, potentially causing corrosion, short circuits, and irreparable damage. Placing the phone in a bed of dry rice allows the rice grains to gradually draw out the moisture, potentially saving the device.

How Long Should You Keep Your Phone In Rice?

For optimal results, it’s generally recommended to leave your phone nestled in a container of dry rice for 24 to 48 hours. This timeframe gives the rice ample opportunity to absorb as much moisture as possible.

While this method isn’t fool-proof, it’s a readily accessible and cost-effective home remedy that can often salvage a water-damaged phone.

Essential Steps Before The Rice Bath

Before you plunge your phone into its rice bath, there are a few crucial steps:

1. Power Down: Immediately turn off the phone to prevent electrical shorts
2. Remove Battery and SIM Card: If your phone has a removable battery, take it out, along with the SIM card
3. Shake It Out: Gently shake the phone to dislodge any visible water droplets.

Does The Type Of Rice Matter?

All types of rice share the fundamental ability to absorb moisture, thanks to their starch content and structure. However, subtle differences can make some varieties slightly more effective than others.

Submerged Or Surface Level: Which Is The Right Way?

For maximum effectiveness, your wet phone needs to be completely buried within the rice, not merely resting on top. Here’s why:

Beyond Phones: Other Uses Of Rice’s Absorbent Power

Rice’s remarkable ability to combat moisture extends far beyond rescuing soggy phones. Here are a couple of examples: