How to save a liquid damaged iPod (if you're lucky)

Did you run your iPod through the laundry or get caught out in the rain? Most of the time wet iPods aren't repairable but if you act quickly you might get lucky.

First and foremost, do not try to turn on your iPod and set the hold switch so that you don't turn it on by mistake. Turning on your iPod while it's still wet inside may cause more damage.

Next you'll want to use whatever you can to get your wet iPod open. Many websites sell iPod opening tools that wont damage your iPod's finish but the the sooner you get it open the better. Waiting for the proper tools to arrive usually isn't worth the risk as once liquid gets inside your iPod it'll begin to corrode the circuitry. Also as the water evaporates it often leaves behind mineral or other deposits so we normally recommend opening the iPod within 24 hours. You can try to use an old credit card or a guitar pick to open your iPod or, as a last resort, you can use a flat head screwdriver but be aware that this will damage your iPods finish. At the end of this article is an iPod take apart video that you might find helpful.

Once you have it open you'll want to take the iPod apart as much as you can, for most iPod's this will require a small philips head screwdriver (shaped like a +). Use a clean cotton cloth to dry any excess liquid from the parts as you remove them. If any parts have visible corrosion or deposits on them you'll want to use some rubbing alcohol and an old toothbrush to carefully clean it off. After you have dried and cleaned all of the iPods parts it's best to let them sit out for a couple of days before you put the iPod back together. After you've reassembled the iPod don't forget to turn off the hold switch before you test it.

If it doesn't work...

If you get your dried iPod back together and find that it doesn't work then your best bet is to replace it. Depending on the type of iPod home contents insurance may cover the cost of the replacement and the best place to get a new iPod is directly from Apple's Online Store. They offer free engraving and overnight shipping.