Disconnect power if it is safe
Stop using the laptop and shut it down. Disconnect the charger and accessories without touching wet mains equipment. Remove only a battery designed for user removal; an internal battery is not disconnected merely because the screen is off.
Do not restart to test it
Dry external surfaces do not show whether liquid remains inside. Do not charge it, use heat, insert objects in ports or treat rice as a repair. Follow model-specific manufacturer guidance and arrange an assessment.
Describe the spill accurately
Record the liquid, approximate amount, where it entered and whether power was connected. Sugary or contaminated liquids can leave residue. Give the details rather than assuming plain water is harmless.
Prioritise safety and files
Explain backup availability before repair. If there is smoke, severe heat or a swollen battery, stop handling the machine and seek appropriate help. No fixed drying period or first-aid sequence guarantees recovery.
Questions about this guide
Should I test the laptop after a spill to see if it survived?
Avoid powering it on to test it. Disconnect power when safe and seek model-specific repair advice; visible dryness does not establish that the inside is safe.
Will rice or a hairdryer fix liquid damage?
Do not rely on rice or apply external heat as a repair. Liquid inside requires appropriate assessment, and improvised drying can leave contamination or cause further damage.