How to Get Water Out of Your iPhone Speaker (Safely)

Apple's guidance, safe methods that work, and what not to do (like rice or a hair dryer).

Disclosure: Some links are sponsored. If you try a sponsored app, such as Speaker Cleaner: Eject Water, we may earn a commission.

Got your iPhone wet and the speaker sounds muffled? In most cases it's temporary. Recent iPhones are water resistant (not waterproof), and water in the speaker grille usually clears on its own. Here's what to do, in order.

1. Unplug and stop charging

If you see a liquid-detected alert, unplug the cable and don't charge until the port is dry. Apple recommends waiting before reconnecting.

2. Tap the phone gently against your hand

Apple's guidance: hold the iPhone with the Lightning/USB-C port facing down and tap it gently against your hand to remove excess liquid.

3. Let it air dry

Leave it in a dry area with some airflow. Most moisture clears within 30 minutes to a day.

4. Face the speaker down

Laying the phone speaker-side down helps gravity pull water out of the grille.

5. Play low-frequency sound

Playing a low tone through the speaker vibrates water out of the grille. This is how the Apple Watch Water Lock works. Apps like Speaker Cleaner: Eject Water or online tone videos do this on iPhone. Start at moderate volume.

6. Don't use rice

Apple specifically advises against putting an iPhone in rice; small particles can get into the phone.

7. Don't use heat or compressed air

No hair dryer, oven or compressed air. Heat can damage the battery and seals; air can push water deeper.

8. Don't poke the grille

Cotton swabs and paper towels can push debris in or damage the mesh.

9. Know when to get help

If sound is still muffled after a day, or the phone was in salt water or another liquid, contact Apple Support.

Bonus: Printable Wet Phone Emergency Card

A printable wallet-size card with the do's and don'ts for a wet phone, so you know exactly what to do in the moment.

How the unlock works: to get the bonus you'll be asked to try one sponsored app or offer from our partner. It's optional, the guide above is complete without it, and the sponsor pays us when you complete their offer. Only do it if the app genuinely interests you.

Unlock the wet phone emergency card (requires trying a sponsored app)

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