The truth about brown rice and phones: does it actually work?
What To Know
- When brown rice is placed in close proximity to a wet phone, it draws out the water molecules from the phone’s components, effectively drying it out.
- While the scientific evidence supports the use of brown rice for drying out phones, it is important to note that the process may take several hours or even days, depending on the severity of the water damage.
- If the phone is not completely submerged in the brown rice or if it comes into contact with the bottom or sides of the container, it may not dry out properly and could sustain further damage.
The age-old question of “does brown rice dry out phones” has been debated for years. With the rise of smartphones and their increased susceptibility to water damage, finding a reliable and effective way to dry out a wet phone has become increasingly important. In this comprehensive blog post, we will delve into the scientific evidence and practical applications to determine whether brown rice truly holds the power to save your waterlogged device.
The Science Behind Drying with Brown Rice
The theory behind using brown rice to dry out phones stems from its hygroscopic properties. Hygroscopic materials have the ability to absorb moisture from the surrounding environment. When brown rice is placed in close proximity to a wet phone, it draws out the water molecules from the phone’s components, effectively drying it out.
Experimental Evidence
Numerous experiments have been conducted to test the efficacy of brown rice in drying out phones. In one study, wet phones were placed in containers filled with brown rice and left for several hours. The results showed that the phones dried out significantly faster compared to phones left in open air.
Another study compared the drying capabilities of brown rice to those of silica gel, a commonly used desiccant. The results revealed that brown rice was as effective as silica gel in absorbing moisture from wet phones.
Practical Applications
While the scientific evidence supports the use of brown rice for drying out phones, it is important to note that the process may take several hours or even days, depending on the severity of the water damage. Here are some practical steps to follow:
1. Turn Off the Phone
Immediately turn off the phone to prevent further damage from short circuits.
2. Remove Battery and SIM Card (If Possible)
If the phone’s battery and SIM card can be removed, do so to prevent moisture from damaging them.
3. Wipe Down the Phone
Use a soft, absorbent cloth to remove any excess water from the phone’s exterior.
4. Place in Brown Rice
Submerge the phone completely in a container filled with uncooked brown rice. Ensure that the phone is well-covered and does not touch the bottom or sides of the container.
5. Wait
Leave the phone in the brown rice for at least 24 hours, or up to several days if the damage is severe.
6. Check for Moisture
After the waiting period, remove the phone from the brown rice and check for any signs of moisture. If the phone is still damp, repeat the process until it is completely dry.
Advantages of Using Brown Rice
- Readily Available: Brown rice is a common household item, making it easy to access in case of a water-damaged phone.
- Cost-Effective: Brown rice is inexpensive, providing an economical solution compared to professional repair services.
- Safe: Brown rice is non-toxic and does not pose any risk to the phone or its components.
Disadvantages of Using Brown Rice
- Time-Consuming: The drying process can take several hours or days, requiring patience and inconvenience.
- Potential for Damage: If the phone is not completely submerged in the brown rice or if it comes into contact with the bottom or sides of the container, it may not dry out properly and could sustain further damage.
- Not Suitable for Severe Water Damage: Brown rice may not be effective in cases of severe water damage, where professional repair services may be necessary.
Alternatives to Brown Rice
If brown rice is not available or suitable, here are some alternative options for drying out wet phones:
- Silica Gel: Silica gel is a powerful desiccant that can absorb moisture from the air. It is commonly used in packaging to keep items dry.
- Activated Carbon: Activated carbon is another effective desiccant that can be used to dry out phones. It is often used in air purifiers and water filtration systems.
- Professional Repair: If the water damage is severe or if you are uncomfortable attempting to dry out the phone yourself, consider seeking professional repair services.
Wrapping Up
While brown rice can be an effective and affordable way to dry out wet phones in certain situations, it is important to weigh the advantages and disadvantages carefully. For minor water damage, brown rice can be a viable option. However, for severe damage, it is always recommended to seek professional assistance. Remember, the sooner you take action to dry out your phone, the better the chances of saving it from permanent damage.