Tips for protecting your phone from water damage

Our phones are our lifelines, but they’re at risk for damage from water and other elements. So how can you protect your phone from water damage? Let’s review some common accidents that result in water damage and how to protect your smartphone by preventing them.

Ways to avoid common water damages to phones

Limit phone use while swimming

Especially in the summer months, one of the most frequent forms of water damage for phones comes from the beach or swimming pool. Limiting the number of “selfies” you take in or around the pool and avoiding taking underwater photos can greatly reduce the risk of water damaging your phone.

If you like to listen to your phone while swimming, you can use waterproof, Bluetooth earbuds and leave your phone in your bag, away from the water. Learn how to protect your phone at the beach.

Keep your phone out of the bathroom

Whether by way of the toilet or bath, plenty of situations can lead to your device sustaining water damage. It’s become common to spend a little extra time in the bathroom checking emails, playing games, or sending text messages. However, if you want to protect your phone from water, keep it out of the bathroom.

Stay away from spills

Something as simple as spilling a beverage on or around your smartphone can prove costly. If water seeps into any part of the logic board or the charging port, your phone could face inevitable demise. Avoid placing your phone on the table at mealtime, and keep a safe distance between your mobile device and your beverages.

Is my phone water-resistant?

Most modern phones are water-resistant, but there are a few things you can check to determine if yours is. First, check the manufacturer’s specifications to see if the phone is considered waterproof or water-resistant. You can also look for the IP rating, which is a numerical rating that indicates the degree of protection against dust and water. Digital Trends reports that an IP67 rating means the phone is dustproof and you can submerge it in up to 3.2 feet of water for up to 30 minutes.

Which phones are waterproof?

It depends on the manufacturer and the model of the phone. Currently, most phones are rated as water-resistant, meaning they can withstand splashes, spills, and light rain. Pay attention to the phone’s IP rating to find out just how waterproof it is. For example, Apple reports that their iPhone 14 series is, “splash, water, and dust resistant.” With an IP68 rating, these phones can withstand water up to 19.7 feet deep for up to 30 minutes. Many of the latest Samsung Android phone including the S22 and Note20 also carry an IP68 rating.

More tips for protecting your phone from water damage

• Invest in a protective case and screen guard
• Try nano-coating, which forms a thin, transparent, waterproof chemical coating on the device’s surface
• Use a waterproof pouch or plastic zip-close bag when you’re near water
• Place a piece of tape over the ports and openings of the device if you don’t have a bag
• Use a waterproof armband to protect your phone from sweat when you’re running or working out

Unfortunately, accidents do happen. Consider cell phone insurance to protect your budget if water damage happens anyway, and find out if cell phone insurance is worth it.