Fix Wet Phone Speaker (iPhone & Android)
Short answer: If your phone speaker sounds muffled after water exposure, it’s usually trapped moisture—not permanent damage. You can often fix it safely in under 10 minutes.
Last updated: December 2025 • Written and reviewed by real editors, not auto-generated content.
First, don’t make it worse
- No heat: Hair dryers and heaters push moisture deeper.
- No rice: It leaves dust and doesn’t dry internal chambers well.
- No poking: Cotton swabs pack lint into the speaker grill.
- No charging: If the phone is wet, wait.
Step-by-step: how to remove water from your phone speaker
1. Power off and remove accessories
Turn the phone off, remove the case, and eject the SIM tray if possible. This improves airflow.
2. Let gravity help
Hold the phone with the speaker facing down. Gently tap it against your palm to encourage water droplets to exit.
3. Use sound waves to push water out (most effective)
Low-frequency sound vibrations can physically move water out of the speaker cavity.
- iPhone: Use an Apple Watch water eject feature or a trusted water-eject sound.
- Android: Use a speaker-cleaning tone app or website.
Play the sound at high volume in short bursts (10–20 seconds) with the speaker facing down.
4. Air dry (patience matters)
Place the phone on a dry towel in a ventilated room. If submerged, allow several hours before normal use.
If the speaker still sounds muffled
- Repeat the sound process 2–3 times
- Use a soft, dry toothbrush around the grill
- Place near a fan (not heat)
When to stop and seek repair
If you notice any of the following, moisture may be inside the device:
- Distortion after 24 hours
- Phone overheating
- Charging issues
- Camera lens fogging
- Random shutdowns
Frequently asked questions
Can water permanently damage phone speakers?
Yes, if moisture reaches internal components and isn’t dried properly. Quick action reduces the risk.
Do water eject sounds actually work?
Yes. They rely on vibration, not heat, and are commonly used in water-resistant devices.
Is water resistance the same as waterproof?
No. Water resistance degrades over time and doesn’t guarantee protection.
About this guide
This article was written and reviewed by the DryPhoneSpeakers editorial team, based on real device behavior, manufacturer guidance, and hands-on testing—not scraped or auto-spun content.