Can You Wash a Credit Card and Still Have It Work?
Accidental wash? Learn if your credit card can still function after getting wet, understanding its design and recovery steps.
Discovering a credit card accidentally subjected to a washing machine cycle often causes immediate worry about its functionality. However, modern credit cards are surprisingly durable. Understanding their construction clarifies their resilience against water exposure, as they are not as fragile as many assume.
Impact on Credit Card Technology
Credit cards are typically made from durable plastic, such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or polycarbonate, often coated in an epoxy resin. This plastic provides structural integrity for embedded components. While strong, the plastic can warp if exposed to high temperatures, generally above 135°F (57°C), more common in a dryer than a washing machine.
The magnetic stripe on the back of the card contains account information and is generally resistant to water. However, prolonged exposure to harsh detergents, physical abrasion during a wash cycle, or high heat can demagnetize or damage it, making it unreadable by card readers. Contactless payment antennas, also embedded within the card, are protected by this sealed design, though their electronic connections can be compromised under severe conditions.
The EMV chip, encased in epoxy resin, provides a sealed environment protecting its internal circuitry from water. While the chip itself does not short out due to water exposure (it lacks an internal power source), residue or corrosion on its contacts can interfere with communication, and extreme heat can dislodge it.
Actions After Water Exposure
If a credit card goes through a wash cycle, retrieve it and gently pat it dry with a soft cloth or paper towel. Allow the card to air dry completely at room temperature, avoiding artificial heat sources like hair dryers, as excessive heat can easily warp the plastic. For cards submerged for an extended period, placing them in a bowl of dry rice for a day or two can help absorb any remaining moisture.
After drying, visually inspect the card for any physical damage such as warping, cracks, bubbling around the EMV chip, or significant fading of numbers or the magnetic stripe. Next, test the card’s functionality by attempting transactions using all available methods: inserting the EMV chip, swiping the magnetic stripe, and tapping for contactless payment.
It is advisable to conduct these tests at an ATM or for a small, low-value purchase to avoid inconvenience if the card fails. Even if physical components are damaged, online transactions that only require card numbers and security codes may still be possible.
If the card is physically damaged, unreadable by payment terminals, or consistently fails transactions, it is necessary to contact the card issuer for a replacement. The customer service number is typically located on the back of the card, but it can also be found on the issuer’s website or mobile app.
Card issuers usually have a straightforward process for sending a new card, which generally arrives within five to seven business days via standard mail. Many issuers also offer expedited shipping (often 1-3 days, sometimes free) and temporary digital card options for immediate use.