Putting a USB drive in the dryer can have severe consequences for both the USB drive and the dryer itself. Here's what can happen if you accidentally place a USB drive in the dryer:
Physical damage to the USB drive: The high heat and mechanical action of the dryer can cause physical damage to the USB drive's delicate components. The circuit board, flash memory chips, and connectors may be warped, melted, or cracked, rendering the USB drive inoperable.
Data loss: If the USB drive is damaged, there's a high likelihood that data stored on it will be lost. The files and information stored on the drive may become corrupted or inaccessible due to the heat and mechanical stress endured during the drying cycle.
Risk of fire: USB drives usually contain a lithium-ion battery, which is susceptible to heat. If the battery gets damaged or ruptured during the drying process, it could lead to a fire hazard.
Damage to the dryer: USB drives are made of hard materials like plastic and metal. When tossed around inside the dryer during the cycle, they can cause damage to the dryer's drum, walls, or even the heating element if they get caught in the wrong place.
Electrical issues: If the USB drive becomes damaged to the point of short-circuiting, it may cause electrical problems in the dryer, leading to malfunctions or even electrical hazards.
To avoid these consequences, it's crucial to double-check your pockets and laundry items before putting them into the dryer. If you accidentally wash or wet a USB drive, avoid using it until it is completely dry. Placing the USB drive in a bowl of uncooked rice for a day or two can help absorb any moisture and increase the chances of recovering the data, although there are no guarantees.
Remember that prevention is always better than dealing with the aftermath of accidents, so be diligent in checking your laundry items to avoid any potential damage to both your USB drives and your appliances.