iPad Water Damage: What to Do (and What NOT to Do)

Few situations are more stressful than a water-damaged iPad. Whether it was a spilled drink, a fall into a pool, or exposure to moisture, iPad water damage can appear immediately—or remain hidden at first.This guide explains what to do right away, what mistakes to avoid, and when professional inspection can make the difference between saving or losing your iPad.

Why water damage is so dangerous for iPads

Even though some newer models offer limited splash resistance, no iPad is truly waterproof. Moisture can:

• Corrode internal components

• Damage connectors and circuits

• Cause short circuits

• Lead to delayed failures days or weeks later

One of the biggest risks is that the iPad appears to work normally while internal damage progresses.

What to do immediately if your iPad got wet

If your iPad fell into water, take these steps right away:

1. Power it off immediately, even if it still works.

2. Disconnect all cables and accessories.

3. Dry the exterior with a clean, dry cloth.

4. Lay it flat and avoid shaking it.

5. Seek professional inspection as soon as possible.

Time is critical—every minute matters when moisture is involved.

What you should never do

Many common tips can actually make things worse. Avoid:

• ❌ Putting it in rice (it doesn’t remove internal moisture).

• ❌ Using heat sources like hair dryers.

• ❌ Charging it “just to test it”.

• ❌ Opening it without proper tools or expertise.

These actions often accelerate corrosion or cause permanent short circuits.

Water damage isn’t always immediate

Many common tips can actually make things worse. Avoid:

• ❌ Putting it in rice (it doesn’t remove internal moisture).

• ❌ Using heat sources like hair dryers.

• ❌ Charging it “just to test it”.

• ❌ Opening it without proper tools or expertise.

These actions often accelerate corrosion or cause permanent short circuits.

Water damage isn’t always immediate

A common misconception is that if the iPad turns on the next day, it’s fine. In reality:

• Moisture can remain trapped inside

• Damage may appear weeks later

• Failures are often intermittent and progressive

That’s why professional internal inspection is strongly recommended, even if the device seems stable.

Professional diagnostics: the smart move

A proper water damage diagnostic can:

• Detect early corrosion

• Clean internal components safely

• Prevent major failures

• Determine whether repair is viable

  
  

👉 At iProX, we provide specialized water damage diagnostics for iPads, using safe and transparent procedures.We have service locations in Guadalajara, Zapopan, and Puerto Vallarta, ready to assess the real condition of your iPad and help you decide the best next step.