What to Do If You Put Your Vape Pen Through the Washing Machine

It happens more often than you’d think: you forget your vape pen in a pocket, toss your clothes in the wash, and only realize your mistake when you hear a clunk in the dryer—or find a soggy vape at the bottom of the washer.

If you’ve just washed your vape pen,don’t panic—butdon’t try to use it either. What you do next can make the difference between salvaging the device safely and creating a serious vape battery safety hazard.

This guide walks you throughexactly what to do,what not to do, andwhen it’s time to replace your vape.

First Things First: Do NOT Turn It On

Before anything else:

• Do not press the power button
  

• Do not try to charge it
  

• Do not take a hit “just to test it”
  

Water (and detergent) inside a vape can cause:

• Short circuits
  

• Battery failure
  

• Overheating
  

• Permanent internal damage
  

Trying to power it on while wet is the fastest way to ruin it—or worse, create a fire risk.

Step-by-Step: What to Do Immediately

1. Remove It From the Washing Machine ASAP

The sooner you get it out, the better. Less water exposure = better odds of recovery.

2. Take It Apart Completely

Disassemble every removable part:

• Pod or tank
  

• Coil (discard it)
  

• Mouthpiece
  

• Battery section (if removable)
  

If anything doesn’t come apart easily,don’t force it.

Can a Vape Battery Survive the Wash?

Disposable Vapes

• Do not attempt to save
  

• Built-in batteries + sealed electronics = unsafe after water exposure
  

• Dispose of it properly
  
  

Rechargeable Vape Pens / Pod Systems

• Possibly salvageable, but not guaranteed
  

• Battery damage isn’t always visible
  

• Even if it turns on later, safety may be compromised
  
  

Removable Batteries (Mods)

• Remove the battery immediately
  

• Donot reuse the battery
  

• Recycle or dispose of it at a battery recycling center
  

If a battery was submerged,it should not be trusted again.

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How to Dry a Vape Pen (Safely)

Step 1: Pat Everything Dry

To clean a vape pen safely, use a clean towel or paper towels to remove surface moisture.

Step 2: Air-Dry for at Least 48–72 Hours

• Place parts in awarm, dry, well-ventilated area
  

• Keep components separated
  

• Leave charging ports facing downward
  
  

Do NOT:

• Use a hair dryer
  

• Use an oven or microwave
  

• Place it on a heater
  

• Use compressed air directly into the device
  

Heat can warp seals, damage batteries, and push moisture deeper inside.

What About the “Rice Trick”?

Putting electronics in rice is a popular myth.

• Rice absorbsvery little moisture
  

• It doesn’t remove detergent residue
  

• Dust can get inside ports and connectors
  

If you want extra help drying:

• Usesilica gel packets (much better than rice)
  

• Or a dedicated electronics drying container
  

But air-drying time is still essential.

Should You Replace the Coil and E-Liquid?

Yes—always.

• Throw away the coil
  

• Discard any e-liquid from the tank or pod
  

• Wash the tank or pod thoroughly with warm water
  

• Let it dry completely before reuse
  

Detergent residue can linger and isnot safe to inhale.

How to Tell If Your Vape Is Permanently Damaged

After at least48–72 hours of drying, inspect carefully.

Signs It’s NOT Safe to Use

• Device gets warm without use
  

• Battery drains extremely fast
  

• Device won’t turn on or won’t turn off
  

• Flickering lights or error messages
  

• Crackling, popping, or burning smells
  

• Corrosion around charging ports
  

If you noticeany of these,do not use the vape.

Is It Safe to Try Charging It Again?

Only ifall of the following are true:

• The device is completely dry
  

• There’s no corrosion or residue
  

• No swelling, heat, or smell
  

• The battery was not removable and submerged
  

Even then, charging a washed vape is arisk, not a guarantee.

When in doubt:replace the device.

When You Should Absolutely Replace It

You should not attempt to reuse a vape if:

• It’s disposable
  

• It went through both the washer and dryer
  

• The battery was submerged
  

• You see corrosion or swelling
  

• The device behaves unpredictably
  

Your safety is worth more than a vape pen.

How to Dispose of a Washed Vape Properly

• Do not throw it in household trash
  

• Take batteries or devices to:
  

• E-waste recycling centers
  

• Battery recycling drop-offs
  

• Vape shops that accept device recycling
  

This prevents fire hazards and environmental damage.

How to Prevent This From Happening Again

Simple habits can save you money and frustration:

• Make a “pocket check” routine before laundry
  

• Store your vape in a case
  

• Use a lanyard or clip
  

• Keep vapes out of hoodie and jacket pockets
  

• Designate a single storage spot at home

Final Thoughts

Putting your vape pen through the washing machine doesn’t automatically mean disaster—but itdoes mean caution.

The key rules to remember:

• Never power on a wet vape
  

• Assume the coil and e-liquid are ruined
  

• Treat washed batteries as unsafe
  

• When in doubt, replace the device
  

If something feels off, smells strange, or behaves differently than before, trust your instincts and retire the vape. No device is worth risking burns, fires, or inhaling contaminated vapor.