Is your phone not charging no matter what you try? You’re not alone. Many Android and iPhone users face this issue. A phone not charging properly is frustrating, but most problems can be fixed at home.

In this guide, we’ll show you 13 proven methods to solve charging issues. Whether it’s a faulty cable, dirty charging port, or software glitch, we’ve got you covered. Let’s get your phone charging again quickly and safely.

Let’s dive into the most common phone charging problems and how to solve them.

1. Check the Charging Cable and Adapter

When your phone won't charge, start by checking your charging cable and adapter.

Look for bends, frays, or cuts in the cable.
Try a different charger or borrow one from a friend.
Always use original or certified chargers recommended by the phone brand.

Using a cheap or faulty charger can harm your battery and even cause slow or no charging.

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2. Inspect and Clean the Charging Port

Dust, dirt, or lint can easily get stuck in the charging port, especially if you keep your phone in your pocket or bag.

Use a toothpick, dry brush, or compressed air to gently clean the port.
Be very careful not to damage the inner components.

Avoid using metal pins or water — this can cause permanent damage.

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3. Try a Different Power Source

Not all power outlets provide equal energy.

Try charging using a different wall socket.
Use a USB port, power bank, or even your laptop.
Avoid surge protectors and low-voltage USB hubs.

Switching power sources can quickly tell if the issue is with the outlet or your phone.

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4. Restart or Reboot Your Phone

Sometimes, the fix is as simple as a restart.

A quick reboot clears minor software glitches that may interfere with charging.
Restart your Android or iPhone and try charging again.

It’s amazing how often this simple trick solves charging problems.

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5. Enable Safe Mode to Detect App Conflicts (Android)

Some third-party apps might block charging in the background.

To boot into Safe Mode:

Press and hold the Power button.
Long-press “Power off” and tap OK to enter Safe Mode.
Try charging your phone in this mode.

If it works, a recently installed app might be causing the issue.

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6. Turn Off Your Phone While Charging

Running apps, games, or video calls while charging slows the process and heats up your phone.

Turn off your phone while charging.
You’ll notice faster and safer charging.

Background apps consume power and may even pause charging temporarily.

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READ ALSO – How to Connect Your Android Phone to Windows 11: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

7. Update Your Phone’s Software

Phone makers often release updates to fix known bugs — including charging bugs.

Go to Settings > Software Update.
Download and install the latest update if available.

Keeping your phone’s software up-to-date can help avoid many charging-related issues.

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8. Calibrate Your Battery (Advanced Users)

If your phone battery drops quickly or shows incorrect percentages, try calibrating the battery.

Steps to calibrate:

Use the phone until it turns off.
Charge it to 100% without interruption.
Leave it plugged in for 1 more hour.
Restart the phone and use it normally.

Only do this occasionally, as frequent calibration can harm battery life.

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9. Avoid Using the Phone While Charging

Using the phone while it’s charging:

Increases heat, which slows charging
Damages battery health over time

Avoid watching videos or gaming during charge time. Let your device rest for faster and healthier charging.

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10. Check for Water or Moisture Damage

Your phone may refuse to charge if there’s moisture in the charging port.

Signs of water damage:

Warning message like “Moisture detected”
Port looks foggy or has visible water

Fix it by:

Gently drying the phone with a soft cloth
Leaving it in a dry place (not rice!)
Avoiding hair dryers or heat

If it doesn’t work, visit a technician.

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11. Try Wireless Charging (If Supported)

If your phone can, try wireless charging to see if it’s a port problem.

Put your phone on a Qi-certified wireless charger.
Ensure your phone is properly aligned.

If wireless charging works but wired doesn’t, your USB port might be broken.

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12. Visit an Authorized Service Center

If nothing works, it might be a hardware issue.

Faulty charging port
Defective charging IC (integrated chip)
Battery wear or motherboard damage

Don’t try to open your phone at home — go to a brand-authorized service center.

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13. Bonus Tips to Prevent Charging Issues

To avoid problems in the future:

Use only certified charging cables and adapters
Don’t let your battery drop below 15% regularly
Avoid overnight charging frequently
Keep your phone cool while charging

Preventive care can help your battery last longer and avoid charging troubles.

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Conclusion

Just because your phone is not charging properly doesn’t mean it’s damaged. A quick fix is often all you need. These 13 simple solutions can help you get your phone charging again in just a few minutes.

Always use original chargers, keep your phone clean, and avoid overcharging. If nothing seems to work, don’t worry—just visit an authorized service center for expert help.

If you’re facing a charging issue we haven’t mentioned, let us know in the comments! And if this guide helped you, share it with someone who needs it.

FAQs – Fix Phone Charging Issues

1. Why is my phone not charging when plugged in?

It might be a bad cable, adapter, charging port, or software issue. Try using different cables or power sources first.

2. Can a software update fix charging issues?

Yes, updates can sometimes fix bugs that stop charging.

3. Is it safe to use my phone while charging?

Yes, sometimes it's okay. But using your phone a lot while charging can slow it down and harm the battery.

4. Should I calibrate my battery regularly?

No, only calibrate if your battery percentage acts strangely.

5. Can I use a different brand charger?

Only if it's certified and fits your phone's power needs. Avoid cheap, untested chargers.

6. My phone shows “Moisture detected.” What do I do?

Dry the port carefully and let your phone air out. Don't use heat or rice.

7. Is wireless charging better than wired?

Not always. It's safer but slower than most wired fast-charging options.

8. Does overnight charging damage the battery?

Occasional overnight charging is fine. But doing it too often might shorten your battery's life.

9. Why is my phone charging slow even with a fast charger?

Background apps, a damaged cable, or a dirty port might be the problem.

10. How can I make my phone charge faster?

Turn off your phone, use a wall outlet, and close apps running in the background.

11. When should I visit a service center?

If DIY fixes don't work, and your phone still won't charge, see a professional.