Does The White Rice Trick Really Work For Wet Phones?

1 week ago

Last Updated:March 19, 2025, 10:56 IST

Submerging a wet phone in dry rice for 24-48 hours can help absorb moisture due to rice's hygroscopic nature. White rice is most effective, and the phone should be fully submerged for best results

Placing the phone in a bed of dry rice allows the rice grains to gradually draw out the moisture, potentially saving the device. (News18)

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:

Power Down: Immediately turn off the phone to prevent electrical shortsRemove Battery and SIM Card: If your phone has a removable battery, take it out, along with the SIM cardShake 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.

White Rice Takes The Lead: White rice, particularly the short-grain variety, is often considered the top performer in this scenario. The removal of its husk and bran during processing allows for faster moisture absorption. Its short grains also offer a larger surface area for enhanced water wicking.Brown Rice: Brown rice, while still absorbent, has a layer of husk and bran that can hinder its moisture-wicking prowess compared to white rice.Sticky Rice: Sticky rice, despite its ability to absorb water, has a tendency to clump together, reducing its effective surface area.

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:

360-Degree Coverage: Burying the phone ensures that rice surrounds every nook and cranny, including speakers, charging ports, and buttons, facilitating thorough moisture absorption.Maximum Surface Area: Direct contact with the maximum surface area of the rice grains allows for quicker and more efficient water extraction.Reduced Air Exposure: Submerging the phone minimises its exposure to air, promoting moisture transfer to the rice instead of evaporation back into the environment.Surface or Submerge: Placing the phone on top of the rice only allows the bottom surface to benefit from the drying effect, leaving other areas vulnerable to lingering moisture.

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:

Damp Shoes: Inserting a small bag of dry rice, perhaps tucked inside a sock, into damp shoes can help absorb excess moisture overnight, leaving them refreshed and dry.Humidity Control: Placing small bowls or bags of rice in cupboards, wardrobes, or storage boxes containing old books can help regulate humidity levels, especially during humid seasons, preventing mould and mildew growth.Location : First Published: