If your iPhone shows a liquid-detection alert even though the port looks dry, unplug the cable at both ends and let the iPhone, cable and accessory air-dry before trying again. Apple says the alert can involve liquid in the Lightning or USB-C connector, on the cable, or on an accessory; wired charging and accessory connections stay unavailable until those parts are dry. Apple’s iPhone liquid-alert guidance applies to iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR and later.

Let the iPhone and connected parts dry

  1. Disconnect the cable at both ends. Unplug it from the iPhone and from the power adapter or accessory. Leave it disconnected while the parts dry.
  2. Point the connector downward and gently tap the iPhone. This can help remove liquid from the connector.
  3. Set the iPhone in a dry place with airflow. Let the connector, cable ends and accessory dry fully before reconnecting anything.
  4. Try again after at least 30 minutes. This is Apple’s first retry point, not a promise that everything will be dry by then. If the alert returns, liquid may remain in the connector or under the cable pins; keep the iPhone in a dry place with airflow. Drying can take up to 24 hours.
Treat the 30-minute mark as a time to try again, not a guarantee that the connector is dry. If the alert returns, give it more time.

Do not use external heat or compressed air, insert anything into the connector, or put the iPhone in rice. Apple warns that charging through a wet connector can corrode the connector or cable pins and cause permanent damage.

If the alert keeps coming back

Pay attention to whether the warning returns with one particular cable or accessory. Apple says that item might be damaged; contact its manufacturer. If the alert recurs with an Apple Lightning or USB-C cable or accessory, the iPhone might need service.

Charging while you wait

Wireless charging remains an option if the back of the iPhone is dry. Apple recommends a Qi-certified charger for best results. Apple describes Emergency Override as an emergency option and warns that charging while the connector is wet can cause corrosion and permanent damage.