Water has gotten inside my phone's display, possibly through a cracked LCD or damaged screen. The phone still works normally, but I'm worried the moisture could cause more damage. It's a Vivo Y33s from around 2021, and it doesn't appear to have an official water-resistance rating. Should I turn it off, and what's the safest way to dry it? I've heard rice can make things worse, so I'd appreciate practical advice.
2 Answers
If the water is only sitting between the outer glass and a separate protector, wiping or replacing the protector may solve it. But if it’s behind the display, especially because the LCD is cracked, the phone should be opened and professionally cleaned or have the screen replaced. Since this model doesn’t have a stated water-resistance rating, don’t assume it will dry safely on its own.
Turn the phone off as soon as possible and wipe the outside with a towel. Don’t keep using it while moisture may still be inside, because electricity can cause corrosion or a short circuit. Rice isn’t recommended since it won’t reliably remove internal moisture and can leave dust or starch behind. Let it dry somewhere warm and well-ventilated, but avoid hair dryers, heaters, or direct sunlight.
The moisture seems to be slowly getting smaller, but some is still visible. I’ll stop using the phone and leave it powered off while it dries.