Key takeaways
- Switch it off and unplug it immediately. Do not try to see if it still works.
- Do not use heat, and do not charge it. Get it to a technician quickly.
- Sugary drinks cause the most damage, because residue keeps corroding the board.
Cut the power at once
Hold the power button until the laptop switches off, then unplug the charger. If the battery is removable, take it out straight away. Every second of power on a wet board increases the damage.
Keep it from soaking in further
Turn the laptop onto its side or hold it like an open tent, face down, so liquid can run out instead of into the keyboard and board. Wipe the outside with a dry cloth. Remove everything attached to it, such as flash drives and cables.
Do not try to turn it on
Switching it on to check often turns a recoverable laptop into a dead one, because power through a wet board can short parts. Wait for a technician to test it safely.
What not to do
- Do not use a hairdryer or leave it in the sun. Heat can warp parts and push liquid deeper.
- Do not charge it.
- Do not shake it hard.
- Do not rely on rice. It does not dry a laptop properly and can add dust.
Why sugary drinks are worse
Water is the kindest liquid. Tea with sugar, soft drinks and juice leave sticky residue that keeps corroding the board after it dries. They need a proper clean as soon as possible.
What a technician does
The laptop is opened, the parts are checked and the board is cleaned. Damaged parts such as a keyboard are replaced where needed. A quick clean gives a better chance of saving the laptop and your files.
Protect it in future
Keep drinks away from the laptop, use a keyboard cover if you eat or drink at your desk and back up your files regularly.
Frequently asked questions
Can a laptop survive a spill?
Often yes, if it is switched off quickly and cleaned soon. The longer liquid stays on the board, the lower the chance.
Should I put a wet laptop in rice?
No. Rice does not dry a laptop properly. Switch it off and take it to a technician quickly.
Will liquid damage affect my files?
The drive is often fine even when the board is damaged, so a technician may still be able to copy your files.
We repair laptops and build websites and business systems. Have a question this guide did not answer? Message us.
This guide is general advice. Every device and business is different, so if you are unsure, ask a technician before you act.
