Accidents happen — maybe your iPad slipped into the sink, got splashed by a spilled drink, or even took a dive into the pool. Whatever the case, water damage can cause serious problems for your iPad, from unresponsive touchscreens to battery failure.
But don’t panic just yet! In many cases, you can minimize the damage and even revive your iPad if you act quickly. This detailed guide will walk you through how to fix a water damaged iPad step by step, what not to do, and when to seek professional repair.
Key Takeaways
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Turn off your iPad immediately if it gets wet — don’t try to use it.
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Avoid charging or pressing buttons, as this can short-circuit components.
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Dry the iPad with a soft cloth and place it in a drying environment (silica gel or dry rice alternative).
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If the iPad doesn’t turn on after 48 hours, seek Apple support or a repair shop.
Why Water Damage Is Dangerous for iPads
iPads are not fully waterproof — even the latest models are only water-resistant, not water-proof. When water enters the device, it can:
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Short-circuit circuits by bridging connections.
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Corrode internal components, especially if exposed to salt water or sugary drinks.
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Damage the battery, causing swelling or overheating.
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Break the screen or speakers due to trapped moisture.
👉 The quicker you act, the higher your chances of saving your iPad.
Step-by-Step Guide to Fix a Water Damaged iPad
Follow these steps carefully. The goal is to remove water safely and prevent further damage.
Step 1: Turn Off Your iPad Immediately
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Hold the power button and swipe to turn it off.
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If it’s unresponsive, let the battery drain naturally.
❌ Don’t try to charge or restart it — electricity + water = permanent damage.
Step 2: Remove Accessories and Case
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Take off any protective case or cover.
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Remove Apple Pencil, external keyboard, or SIM card (cellular iPads).
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Wipe everything dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.
Step 3: Dry the Exterior
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Use a microfiber or cotton cloth to blot water.
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Tilt the iPad gently to let water escape from ports.
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Avoid shaking aggressively (this spreads water inside).
Step 4: Remove Water from Ports
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Use a dry cotton swab or tissue corner to absorb moisture from charging port, headphone jack, and speaker grills.
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Don’t insert sharp objects like pins or paperclips.
Step 5: Air Dry the iPad
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Place the iPad on a flat, dry surface with good airflow.
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Leave it at room temperature for at least 24–48 hours.
💡 Tip: Place the iPad in an upright position to allow gravity to pull out water.
Step 6: Use a Drying Agent (Better Than Rice!)
Many people suggest rice, but it’s not the most effective. Instead, try:
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Silica gel packets (the “do not eat” packets in packaging).
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Moisture-absorbing pouches made for electronics.
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A dedicated electronic dryer kit.
👉 If rice is your only option, it’s better than nothing, but silica gel works faster and safer.
Step 7: Wait Before Powering On
Patience is key. Wait at least 48 hours before attempting to power on.
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After 48 hours, plug it into a charger.
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If it turns on — great! Test all functions (screen, speakers, touch, camera).
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If it doesn’t — try one more day of drying.
Step 8: Test the iPad Carefully
When it powers on, check:
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Touchscreen response
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Speakers and microphone
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Charging port
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Cameras
Any glitches may mean water damage persists.
Step 9: Seek Professional Repair If Needed
If the iPad still won’t turn on, or you notice:
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Distorted sound
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Screen flickering
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Rapid battery drain
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Overheating
👉 It’s time to contact Apple Support or a certified repair shop.
What NOT to Do with a Water Damaged iPad
❌ Don’t use a hairdryer — hot air can warp components.
❌ Don’t put it in an oven or microwave (yes, people try this!).
❌ Don’t press buttons repeatedly — it pushes water deeper.
❌ Don’t charge it immediately — it can short-circuit.
Prevention: How to Protect Your iPad from Water Damage
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Use a waterproof case (brands like OtterBox, Catalyst, or LifeProof).
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Keep iPads away from sinks, bathtubs, and pools.
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Store silica gel packets and a zip-lock bag for emergencies.
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For beach trips: use a waterproof sleeve.
Comparison: DIY Fix vs Professional Repair
| Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| DIY at home | Free, quick, can save device | Risk of incomplete drying |
| Apple Support | Reliable, warranty-friendly | Expensive if out of warranty |
| Third-party repair | Cheaper than Apple | Risk of low-quality parts |
How Much Does iPad Water Damage Repair Cost?
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Apple warranty usually doesn’t cover water damage.
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AppleCare+ with accidental coverage may charge ~$49–$99 per incident.
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Without warranty, repair costs range from $250–$600, depending on model and damage.
👉 Sometimes, if the iPad is old, replacing it may be cheaper than repairing.
Conclusion
Water and electronics don’t mix, but a quick response can save your device. To recap:
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Turn off the iPad immediately.
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Remove water safely (dry cloth, cotton swab, airflow).
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Use silica gel or drying agents for 48 hours.
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Test carefully before use.
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Seek professional repair if problems remain.
👉 The sooner you act, the higher your chances of recovering your iPad without costly repairs.
FAQs About Fixing Water Damaged iPads
1. Can I put my iPad in rice to dry it?
Yes, but silica gel or electronic drying kits work better than rice.
2. How long should I leave my iPad to dry?
At least 48 hours before turning it back on.
3. Will Apple repair water damage under warranty?
No, standard warranty doesn’t cover liquid damage, but AppleCare+ may help.
4. Can a water damaged iPad be fixed permanently?
Yes, if the damage is minor. Severe cases may require replacing parts or the device.
5. What if my iPad fell in salt water?
Rinse immediately with distilled water (not tap water), then follow drying steps. Salt causes faster corrosion.