If you drop coffee or any liquid on a laptop, turn it off immediately by holding the power button and unplug the charger. Never turn it back on to check if it works. Unplug external devices, flip it upside down (in an inverted “V” shape) over a towel, and let it drain.
Follow these steps carefully to save your device:
1. Act Fast
Do not go through the shutdown menu; hold the physical power button until the machine goes dark.
Remove the charging cable right away to prevent short-circuiting.
Unplug your mouse, USB drives, and any other accessories.
2. Drain and Dry the Laptop
Open the laptop and place it upside down (like a tent or an upside-down “V” shape) on a towel. This uses gravity to draw the liquid away from the motherboard.
Use a clean, dry, lint-free cloth or paper towel to gently dab away any excess liquid on the surface or keys. Do not wipe vigorously, as this can push liquid deeper.
If your laptop has a removable battery, take it out immediately.
3. Don’t hurry, Be Patient
Leave the laptop in its inverted position in a warm, dry, and well-ventilated area.
Do not turn it on, even if it looks dry. Internal components take much longer to dry than the keyboard.
Never use a hairdryer, heat gun, or place the laptop in the oven. Do not submerge the laptop in rice, as the dust and starch can get inside and cause further damage.
4. Check for Sticky Residue
If your drink contained milk, sugar, or creamer, the residue will become sticky and corrosive as it dries.
Once the laptop is completely dry, use a microfiber cloth lightly dampened with 90%+ isopropyl alcohol to clean sticky keys or surfaces.
5. Seek Professional Help
If your drink contained milk or sugar, it is highly recommended to seek professional advice.