Ask the Rov: My toddler put a cell phone in the sink on Shabbos. May I take it out?
By Rabbi Chaim Hillel Raskin – Rov of Anash in Petach Tikvah
A phone’s primary use is Shabbos prohibited, which would categorize it as a kli shem’lachto l’isur. As such, it may be handled for a permissible use (l’tzorech gufo, e.g., to look at the time if the display is on), or if one needs its place (l’tzorech mekomo), but may not be moved for its own protection (l’tzorech atzmo).
This is assuming that during the week, the phone is left around and used by all. However, if you are particular about an expensive phone and avoid using it for any purpose other than its designated (Shabbos-prohibited) usage to preserve its value, it may fall under the stricter category of muktza machmas chisaron kis (muktza due to potential financial loss). In this case, it may not be moved even letzorech gufo or mekomo.1
Moving a phone to save it from getting wet (l’tzorech atzmo) is not allowed.2 But if the phone in the sink will prevent people from using the sink, this is considered l’tzorech mekomo.3
If there is another sink to use, some hold that the muktza may not be moved since it’s technically not necessary. They similarly argue that a muktza item may not be used l’tzorech gufo if a non-muktza item is available.4 Others counter that even a non-muktza utensil may not be moved for no reason and may only be moved for a purpose. Thus, it is no worse to move a kli shem’lachto l’isur for the sake of gufo or mekomo.5 One may rely on the lenient view.
What about picking it up with a towel, thereby drying some of the water that splashed on it? Is that a problem of “fixing” a utensil? Technically, he’s not actively fixing it, only preventing it from getting ruined.6 Similarly, it isn’t prohibited due to preparing for the weekday since that only applies to preparation that involves some effort and not a fleeting act (just as one may place a bookmark in a sefer when finished learning for the next day).7
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From The Weekly Farbrengen by Merkaz Anash
Lichora should be muttar k’l’achar yad?
Exactly. What isn’t this mentioned enough. It can be very practical to slip the back of your hand under the phone and pick it up to be placed in a safe place.
This would probably be the most simplest solution.
Would love if anyone can share why this can be a problem of any sort.