Spilling your laptop’s keyboard with tea or coffee can be a stressful experience, but don’t panic. Read the following steps to save your laptop from unnecessary repairs, and your wallet from excessive expenses.

Here are a few steps that will help minimize the damage and save your device:

1. Immediately turn off the laptop

As soon as the spill occurs, immediately turn off the laptop and disconnect it from any power sources. This reduces the risk of short-circuiting.

2. Remove the battery

If possible, quickly remove the battery to prevent additional damage from electricity.

3. Turn the laptop upside down

Turn the laptop upside down to allow the liquid to drain downwards, rather than seeping deeper into the device.

4. Blot the liquid

Gently blot the liquid with a clean, dry cloth or paper towel. Avoid excessive pressure to prevent damaging the keyboard.

5. Use a drying agent

Place drying agents, such as silica gel or uncooked rice, near the keyboard to help absorb moisture.

6. Leave it to dry

Leave the laptop in a dry place for several hours or even days to ensure that all the moisture has evaporated.

7. Check for damage

Before turning on the laptop, check for any visible damage. If you are unsure about the condition of the device, it’s better to consult a professional.

8. Do not use a hairdryer or other heat sources

Do not use a hairdryer or other devices to speed up the drying process, as this can damage the electronic components and spread the liquid inside the laptop.

9. Seek service center help

If the laptop does not turn on or if you notice malfunctions, contact a service center. Attempts at self-repair can lead to further damage.

Lifehack from Locator: what to do if the laptop is dry, but the keyboard does not work?

If after drying you find that the keyboard or some important keys on the laptop still do not work, don’t despair. There is an alternative way to continue working with your laptop. You can connect an external keyboard via a USB port or use a wireless keyboard with Bluetooth connectivity. This temporary solution will allow you to continue working while you decide whether to repair the built-in keyboard or replace it. External keyboards often provide additional benefits, such as better tactile feedback and convenience, so this option might even be more comfortable for some users.