Quick Answer
Getting water out of an iPhone headphone jack can be tricky, but there are a few methods you can try:
- Shake the phone to try to dislodge any water droplets
- Use a can of compressed air to blow out any moisture
- Insert a cotton swab or toothpick into the headphone jack to absorb any liquid
- Place the phone in a bag or container of rice to help absorb the water
- Use a vacuum cleaner on a low setting to try to suction out the water
The key is to avoid pushing any water further into the phone. Be gentle and patient. If the water doesn’t seem to be budging, it’s best to take the phone to a repair shop where they can safely clean and dry out the headphone jack.
What causes water to get into the headphone jack?
There are a few common ways that water can end up in an iPhone’s headphone jack:
- Using the phone in the rain without protection
- Dropping the phone in water
- Washing the phone without properly sealing the ports
- Using the phone with wet or sweaty hands
- Spilling liquid onto the phone
The headphone jack is one of the most vulnerable parts of the iPhone since it is an exposed port. It doesn’t take much liquid to seep into the small opening and get lodged inside. Even high humidity or damp environments can lead to moisture buildup in the headphone jack over time.
How can water damage the headphone jack and your iPhone?
If left unchecked, water inside the headphone jack can lead to several issues:
- Impaired audio when using headphones – crackling, muffled sound
- Headphone jack corrosion over time due to water minerals
- Damage to headphone pin connectors resulting in loose connection
- Moisture spreads deeper into phone interior and causes corrosion
- Short circuit due to water bridging connections
In worst case scenarios, the entire logic board may need replacement if moisture has spread beyond the headphone jack. This is an expensive repair. That’s why it’s crucial to remove water from the iPhone headphone jack right away before permanent damage occurs.
How to dry out water in the iPhone headphone jack
If your iPhone headphone jack has gotten wet, here are some methods to try and dry it out:
1. Shake the phone
Hold your phone firmly and shake it vigorously for 30 seconds. This may help dislodge any trapped water droplets. Be sure to shake every side of the phone to move the water out of the headphone jack.
2. Use compressed air
Use a can of compressed air (the kind used to clean computer keyboards) and insert the thin nozzle into the headphone port. Blast 2-3 shots of air while tilting the phone’s port downwards. The compressed air should help blow out any moisture.
3. Insert a cotton swab
Carefully insert a dry cotton swab or blunt wooden toothpick into the headphone port. Twist gently to have the cotton or wood absorb any moisture inside. Be sure not to push too hard or anything further into the port.
4. Place the phone in rice
Place your iPhone in a sealable bag or air-tight container, along with a few cups of raw uncooked rice. Rice is highly absorbent and will help draw moisture out of the phone. Leave it buried in rice overnight before checking the headphone jack again.
5. Use a vacuum cleaner
Take a vacuum cleaner attachment with a thin nozzle and gently insert it about half an inch into the headphone port. Run the vacuum on a low setting for a few seconds to try to suck water out of the jack. Check the port and repeat as needed until dry.
Be sure to avoid getting any vacuum attachments stuck in the port. Only use thin, blunt nozzles that will easily pull back out.
When to avoid DIY iPhone headphone jack drying
While the above methods may work for minor water exposure, it’s best to avoid DIY solutions if:
- Your phone was fully submerged or soaked in liquid
- Water has gotten into other ports or openings
- You notice corrosion, damaged ports or loose connections
- Phone isn’t functioning properly even after water removal attempts
In these cases, take your iPhone to an Apple Store or repair shop. They have specialized equipment to dry out phones and assess any permanent damage. Don’t try to force dry a water-logged iPhone yourself.
How to prevent water from getting in the headphone jack
Here are some tips to keep your iPhone headphone port moisture-free:
- Use a waterproof case when using your phone outdoors in the rain or snow
- Never use your phone around sinks, tubs, pools or other wet environments
- Keep phone away from open containers of liquid
- Wipe away any spilled drinks immediately
- Let your phone dry fully before using the headphone jack after washing hands or exercise
- Don’t plug in headphones with wet hands
- Invest in Bluetooth headphones to avoid using the exposed headphone jack
Keeping your phone away from liquids is the ultimate way to prevent waterlogging issues. Be especially cautious around any water source and get in the habit of checking the headphone port for moisture regularly if using wired headphones. A bit of prevention goes a long way!
What to do if my headphone jack is already damaged
If you’ve tried drying out your iPhone headphone jack but sound is still distorted or connections are loose, the jack may already be corroded or damaged:
- Try a different set of headphones to isolate the issue
- Check the headphone port for corrosion, dirt or damage
- Use a toothpick to gently clear out any debris
- plug in headphones and wiggle the connector to check for looseness
If your headphone jack seems beyond DIY repair, your best bet is to take your iPhone to Apple or an Apple Authorized Service Provider. They can assess the damage and swap out the entire headphone jack or logic board as needed. This will likely cost over $100 depending on the iPhone model.
You can also consider switching to a Bluetooth headphone adapter or Bluetooth headphones. This will allow you to listen wirelessly without relying on the damaged headphone jack. Just make sure to keep the ports dry going forward!
Professional headphone jack repair options
For professional-level iPhone headphone jack repairs, you have a few options:
Apple Store
Make a Genius Bar appointment and have Apple technicians evaluate your phone and headphone jack issue. They can repair or replace parts as needed. Apple repairs come with a 90-day warranty.
Apple Authorized Service Providers
Third party repair shops that are approved by Apple. Search for AASPs in your area to shop around for prices. Quality may vary. Offers external warranty.
Mail-in services like iCracked
You can mail your iPhone to a service like iCracked, where certified technicians will diagnose and repair headphone jack issues. This spares you a trip to a repair shop. Warranty included.
Third party local repair shops
Non-authorized shops often offer cheaper headphone jack repairs and parts. However quality isn’t guaranteed and internal damage may not be spotted. Ask about warranty coverage.
For extensive damage, going through Apple or an AASP is your safest bet for a reliable, factory-quality repair covered by warranty. It comes at a higher cost, but prevents any faulty workmanship issues.
Can I prevent headphone jack damage when getting phone wet?
You can take proactive steps to keep your iPhone headphone jack in good condition even if the phone gets splashed or wet:
- Use a phone case with port covers
- Apply waterproof tape over ports when wet
- Refrain from plugging in headphones when phone is wet
- Dry out water fully each time phone gets wet
- Keep moisture sensors intact to detect water damage
- Have phone professionally cleaned and dried if immersed
Preventing liquid from entering the headphone jack in the first place is ideal. But even if the phone does get wet, quick action to dry it out can prevent permanent headphone jack damage in most cases. Just be sure to get professional help if moisture sensors are triggered or phone isn’t working properly.
Headphone Recommendations
Here are some of the best headphone options if you’re prone to exposing your iPhone to moisture:
Wireless Bluetooth Headphones
Bluetooth headphones from companies like Bose, Sony and Beats allow you to listen wirelessly without having to use the iPhone headphone jack. No moisture issues!
Waterproof Headphones
Look for headphones specially designed for fitness, swimming and outdoor use with a fully waterproof construction. Brands like JBL, HydroActive and Underwater Audio have great options.
AirPods
Apple’s AirPods are sweat and water resistant so they hold up well for exercise and in damp environments. The charging case also helps keep moisture out when not in use.
Investing in a good pair of wireless or waterproof headphones is smart if you tend to use your iPhone outdoors or while active. This will help avoid any damage from moisture getting into the headphone jack port.
Does AppleCare cover water damage to the headphone jack?
Standard AppleCare and AppleCare+ plans do not cover any kind of accidental damage on iPhones, including water damage. The basic AppleCare plans only add 1 year of extended tech support and an additional year of hardware coverage for manufacturer defects.
To get protection for water damage, you would need to purchase AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss coverage. This adds repair or replacement coverage for damage due to drops, spills, and liquids. There is a service fee per incident, but it is much less than paying for a full repair without coverage.
When purchasing AppleCare+, be sure to read the terms for your country and carrier. Some limitations exist based on iPhone model. You also need to purchase it within 60 days of getting your new iPhone. For the best protection from water damage to the headphone jack or anywhere on the phone, AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss is highly recommended.
Conclusion
Keeping moisture out of an iPhone’s headphone jack is important to maintaining a properly functioning speaker and microphone. If you ever find water or dampness in your iPhone headphone port, try some DIY drying methods right away like using compressed air, rice, cotton swabs, and a vacuum. Avoid plugging in headphones until fully dry.
For severe water exposure beyond the headphone jack, seek professional help immediately to dry out your device and check for corrosion. Prevention is also key – always shield your iPhone from rain, spills, and splashes. With some diligent care when it comes to liquids, you can avoid a wet and damaged headphone port.
