Accidentally dropping your iPad in water—or having it splashed with a drink, soaked in the rain, or left in a humid environment—can cause immediate panic. Water damage is one of the most common causes of malfunction in mobile devices, and iPads are no exception. While modern iPads are built with some level of water resistance, they’re not waterproof. If your iPad has encountered water damage, acting quickly and correctly can make the difference between a simple fix and a costly replacement.
In this article, we’ll explain realistic, practical steps to help fix a water-damaged iPad, signs to watch for, and when to turn to iPad repair experts, especially if you’re in Ottawa or elsewhere in North America.
Step 1: Act Fast and Power Down
The first thing you should do after water exposure is turn off your iPad immediately. Keeping it powered on can short-circuit internal components and worsen the damage. If your iPad is already off, leave it that way.
Important: Do not try to plug it in or use accessories. Electrical currents plus moisture can result in serious internal harm.
Step 2: Remove External Components
Quickly remove any accessories, including:
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Charging cables
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Headphones
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External keyboards
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SIM card (if your iPad has cellular connectivity)
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Protective cases and screen protectors
These items can trap moisture and prevent airflow, increasing the chances of long-term damage.
Step 3: Dry the Exterior Thoroughly
Use a soft, lint-free cloth (microfibre is ideal) to pat down the iPad and absorb as much external moisture as possible. Pay special attention to:
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The charging port
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Speakers
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Microphone openings
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Buttons and seams
Avoid using a hair dryer, heat gun, or any source of direct heat. High heat can warp delicate electronics and LCDs.
Step 4: Absorb Internal Moisture
The myth of putting your iPad in rice is outdated. Rice can introduce dust and particles into the ports and doesn’t effectively remove moisture. Instead, try the following:
Option 1: Silica Gel Packs If you have silica gel packs (often found in shoe boxes or electronics packaging), place your iPad in an airtight container with as many packs as possible. Silica gel is a desiccant and works much better than rice.
Option 2: Dry Air Circulation If you don’t have silica packs, place the iPad in a cool, dry place with good airflow for at least 48 hours. Use a fan to circulate air around the device. This isn’t as effective, but it’s better than sealing the iPad somewhere damp or humid.
Step 5: Wait—Then Test
Once at least 48 hours have passed, test the iPad by:
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Powering it on (without connecting it to a charger).
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Checking key functions like touch responsiveness, volume buttons, speakers, and the charging port.
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Watching for foggy screen areas, which can indicate trapped moisture inside the display.
If the iPad powers on and seems to work normally, back up your data immediately in case latent issues arise later.
Signs of Internal Damage
Even if the iPad appears to work after drying, keep an eye out for signs of internal damage over the following days:
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Screen flickering or ghost touches
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Weak or distorted sound from speakers
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Intermittent charging issues
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iPad heating up during normal use
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iOS crashes or reboot loops
These are clear indicators that moisture may still be inside or has already corroded internal components.
When to Call the Experts
If your iPad doesn’t power on after 48 hours, exhibits strange behaviour, or you’re just not confident about repairing it yourself, it’s time to consult qualified professionals who repair iPads.
Here’s why professional iPad repair services are often worth it:
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Internal inspection tools: Experts can safely open your device and inspect for corrosion or moisture on the logic board.
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Ultrasonic cleaning: Professional shops use ultrasonic cleaners to remove mineral residue left behind by water.
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Replacement parts: Certified technicians can replace damaged components like batteries, connectors, or screens without voiding warranties (if applicable).
Avoiding Common Mistakes
Here are a few things you should not do when dealing with a water-damaged iPad:
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Don’t turn it on right away: This can short out the device.
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Don’t shake the device aggressively: Water can spread further inside.
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Don’t use a microwave, oven, or hair dryer: Direct heat causes far more harm than good.
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Don’t ignore early warning signs: Delayed corrosion from moisture is a leading cause of long-term device failure.
Can Apple Help?
Apple’s standard warranty does not cover water damage unless you’ve paid for AppleCare+ with accidental damage coverage. Even with coverage, you may face service fees.
Apple technicians may not attempt repairs on older models and instead suggest full replacement—another reason to consider a third-party iPad repair expert in your region.
Is It Ever Beyond Repair?
Unfortunately, yes. If water reached the logic board and was left untreated for too long, corrosion may be irreversible. Similarly, saltwater or sugary liquids (like juice or soda) are much more damaging than clean tap water. In these cases, full replacement might be your only option.
That said, don’t give up without getting a professional assessment. Many reputable iPad repair services offer free or low-cost diagnostics and can tell you what’s salvageable.
Preventing Future Water Damage
While you can’t always prevent accidents, these tips can help:
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Use a waterproof or water-resistant case (especially for kids or outdoor use).
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Keep your iPad away from bathrooms, kitchens, and pools when possible.
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Avoid using your iPad near liquids—coffee spills are one of the top causes of damage.
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Consider a screen protector that adds another layer of protection for minimal cost.
Fixing a water-damaged iPad is a time-sensitive and delicate task. Acting fast, following the right steps, and knowing when to seek professional help can dramatically improve your chances of saving your device.
If you’re in Ottawa or a nearby city and your iPad has taken an unexpected swim, reach out to professionals who repair iPads locally. With the right tools and knowledge, they can often restore your device, saving you time, money, and data.
