Does Water Ruin Credit Cards? And What to Do About It

Credit cards are integral to daily financial transactions, offering convenience and security for purchases. While these plastic cards are designed to be durable for everyday use, their susceptibility to water exposure is a common concern for consumers. Understanding how water impacts the various technologies embedded within a credit card is important for maintaining card longevity and ensuring continued functionality.

How Water Interacts with Credit Card Technology

Modern credit cards incorporate several technologies that facilitate transactions, each with varying degrees of resilience to moisture. The primary concern is not always the water itself, but rather the contaminants or physical stress that often accompany water exposure.

The magnetic stripe, a dark band on the back of the card, stores cardholder data. Water itself does not demagnetize the stripe, but prolonged submersion in corrosive liquids like saltwater can weaken its magnetic properties. More commonly, water carries dirt, debris, or chemicals that interfere with the stripe’s readability by payment terminals.

The EMV chip, a small metallic square on the card’s front, is sealed within the card’s plastic layers, offering protection against direct water damage. However, water containing minerals or contaminants can deposit residue on the chip’s electrical contacts. This residue can impede the chip’s ability to make proper contact with a payment terminal, leading to transaction errors or intermittent functionality.

Contactless (NFC) technology operates through an antenna embedded within the card’s body. This internal placement provides protection from water exposure. While water alone is unlikely to disrupt NFC functionality, physical damage to the card, such as bending or cracking that compromises the internal antenna, poses a greater threat than moisture.

The card body, typically made of plastic like PVC or polycarbonate, is resistant to water. However, extreme conditions, such as prolonged exposure to hot water or harsh chemicals, can lead to delamination, where the card’s layers begin to separate. This physical degradation, rather than direct water absorption, compromises the card’s integrity and usability.

Immediate Actions for a Wet Credit Card

If a credit card becomes wet, immediate and proper action can help preserve its functionality. The goal is to dry the card safely without causing further damage to its components.

If a card becomes wet, gently blot it with a soft, absorbent cloth to remove surface moisture. Avoid rubbing vigorously, which could scratch the card’s surface or dislodge embedded components. Allow the card to air dry completely at room temperature for several hours. Avoid using external heat sources, such as hairdryers or direct sunlight, as excessive heat can warp the plastic or damage electronic components.

Once the card appears dry, test its functionality by attempting a small transaction or checking it at an ATM. If the card does not work, especially if chip-based transactions fail, gently clean the EMV chip’s metallic contacts with a soft, dry cloth or a cotton swab. This can remove any residual moisture or contaminants that might be obstructing the electrical connection.

If the card remains non-functional after drying and minor troubleshooting, or if there are visible signs of physical damage such as peeling lamination or a cracked chip, contact the card issuer for a replacement. Most card issuers replace damaged cards, often free of charge. The replacement process can be initiated online, through a mobile app, or by calling customer service.

Protecting Your Credit Card from Moisture

Preventative measures and diligent care can reduce the risk of water damage to credit cards and extend their lifespan. Incorporating simple habits into daily routines helps safeguard these financial tools.

Storing credit cards properly is a primary defense against moisture. Wallets or cardholders that enclose cards fully offer a layer of protection from accidental spills or light rain. Opting for a wallet made from water-resistant materials can provide additional security, especially for individuals who frequent environments where water exposure is more likely.

Keep credit cards away from environments prone to water exposure. This includes avoiding placing them near sinks, in swimsuits during aquatic activities, or in pockets during heavy rain without adequate protective covering. Even brief, repeated exposure to moisture can contribute to long-term wear.

General care practices, such as avoiding extreme temperatures and preventing the card from bending or being subjected to excessive force, also contribute to its overall resilience. Physical damage, like a warped card or a cracked chip, can make the card more vulnerable to water-related issues. For situations where a physical card might get wet, utilizing digital wallet options on water-resistant devices, such as smartphones, offers a convenient and secure alternative for making payments.