5 harmful misconceptions when technology devices get wet

In a world where electronic devices accompany us from the bathroom to the gym, water resistance is becoming an increasingly important factor when consumers choose products.

From phones to smartwatches to wireless headphones, most modern devices are advertised as “waterproof,” “waterproof,” or “IP68-rated.”

However, the ability to survive a fall into the toilet or a washing machine depends not only on technical specifications but also on the correct understanding and correct actions of the user.

A new study has found that most consumers are misled or misled by water-resistance claims, leading to poor decisions when problems arise, making the situation worse.

Here are the five most common myths about electronics coming into contact with water and why you should be wary.

Myth 1: If a device is still working, it is “okay”

Many people breathe a sigh of relief when their device still works after being wiped dry—the screen turns on, the touch screen works, or the speaker still makes sound. However, what the naked eye cannot see is the corrosion that is silently taking place inside the circuit board. Not only does moisture cause temporary short circuits, it also triggers oxidation, which can damage metal components over time.

What’s more dangerous is that corrosion damage can appear late, weeks or even months later. A phone that seemed to have “recovered” can suddenly die, for no apparent reason, and by then, it’s too late.

Not only water, but also humidity from the bathroom, tropical climates, or even sweat from the wrist when wearing a smartwatch is enough to damage the device if exposed for a long time. Therefore, just because the device works after drying does not mean that it is completely “fine”.

Myth 2: “Waterproof” means absolutely safe

The term “waterproof” has been misused to the point of serious confusion. In the United States, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has stepped in to control how companies use the term in advertising, especially for watches. The problem is that no device is truly “waterproof,” only different degrees of water resistance.

Modern devices often come with an IP (Ingress Protection) rating, such as IP67 or IP68. However, these specifications only reflect dust and water resistance under standard testing conditions, usually fresh water, without pressure, at room temperature.

If you drop your phone in a soapy bath, a chlorinated pool, or dip it in salt water, these factors may exceed the manufacturer’s water resistance testing. “Waterproof” does not mean “immune to all liquids.”

Myth 3: IP Rating Is Actual Proof of Water Resistance

A device advertised as having an IP68 rating can survive being submerged in fresh water at a depth of 1.5 meters for 30 minutes. But what about soapy water? Salt water? Water with alcohol or cleaning chemicals? These factors are not typically included in the tests.

Additionally, IP ratings cannot measure long-term water resistance. Over the years, rubber seals and waterproof adhesives can degrade. A phone that was IP68 when it was first purchased may no longer provide effective protection after 2-3 years.

Therefore, users should not rely solely on the IP rating to test the device in wet or water-immersed environments. It is a technical index, not a “free from responsibility” license for any risky behavior.

Myth 4: Rice is the best device rescue method

One of the most common “home remedies” for when your device gets wet is to put it in a bowl of rice. The idea behind this trick is that the rice will absorb the moisture from the device. But in reality, this is not as effective as you might think.

Numerous studies have shown that rice absorbs only a small amount of moisture, and that it dries no faster than leaving the device in a dry, well-ventilated environment. Worse, rice dust or debris can get into cracks and cause further damage to components.

Instead, the right course of action is to immediately power down the device, remove the battery (if possible), unplug the ports, and leave the device in a cool, dry place for at least 48 hours. If possible, take it to a professional repair center as soon as possible.

Myth 5: The warranty will take care of everything.

When a device is involved in a water accident, many people feel reassured because they think it is “still under warranty.” However, most standard electronic device warranties do not cover liquid damage.

You can purchase extended warranties or “accidental damage coverage,” but even then the terms are limited. Many plans only allow a certain number of “incidents” per year, or refuse to cover you if you don’t properly handle an accident.

Understanding the warranty policy and reading the terms carefully is always a must before an incident occurs.

Reality and Responsibility: Users, Manufacturers, and the Future of Smart Devices

The water resistance of tech devices is improving all the time thanks to advances in design, materials, and manufacturing techniques. However, companies are still promoting these features in exaggerated ways, sometimes beyond the actual safety limits.

A notable example is the 2022 case where Samsung Australia was fined $14 million for misleadingly advertising that its Galaxy phones were safe to use in pools or the ocean, when the technical documentation recommended against use in these environments.

Advertising often portrays a “carefree” image of technology, from Lil Wayne spraying champagne on phones to videos of people dunking phones in fish tanks. But those images don’t reflect the reality of what users will encounter if they do.

In a world where phones, tablets and headphones are constant companions in the bathroom, kitchen, gym and beach, manufacturers need to rethink their responsibilities. Designing devices to withstand real-life situations, being transparent about product durability and offering fair repair support are essential.

The “right to repair” movement is growing as a natural response to the information asymmetry between manufacturers and consumers. When a user is denied a warranty due to “misuse” even though the fault arose from a common accident, it is not just a technical issue but a technological fairness issue.

In short, modern technology has come a long way in terms of water resistance, but it is not enough to withstand all real-life situations. As a user, you should be wary of flashy advertising claims and always have a backup plan. Turn off your device, dry it properly, and seek professional help when necessary.