If the Home button on your iPhone isn’t working, there may be an easy fix. Your Home button may stop working after a drop or fall if it gets dirty or has a mechanical problem. This guide will teach you how to fix a Home button on an iPhone that isn’t working and show you how to unlock your iPhone and use an on-screen Home button until you can get your Home button working again.
Before you start: Ensure you have your iPhone and a slightly damp lint-free cloth ready.
How to fix a non-working iPhone home button
Follow these steps to troubleshoot and repair your iPhone’s Home button.
- First, try unlocking your iPhone’s screen. Press the side or top button to wake the screen.
- Swipe up on the locked screen to display your notifications.
- Tap a notification to bring up the Touch ID screen.
- Then, tap Use Passcode and enter your passcode.
Get a temporary Home button
- Open the Settings app and tap Accessibility.
- If your iPhone opens to the Home screen, tap Touch under “Physical and Motor”.
- Toggle on the switch for AssistiveTouch to enable the on-screen Home button.
- To unlock your screen using the temporary Home button, press the side button to wake the screen and then tap the on-screen Home button quickly.
Reset your Home button settings
- Open Settings and tap Accessibility.
- Tap Home Button under the “Physical and Motor” header.
- Set Click Speed to Default.
- Toggle on Rest Finger to Open for Touch ID functionality.
Rule out software issues
- Test your Home button in a built-in app like Notes. If it works there, the issue might be software-related.
- Check for both app and operating system updates by going to the App Store and tapping your profile photo, then select Update All if applicable.
- Also check for iOS updates in Settings > General > Software Update.
Check for damage
- Inspect the Home button for physical damage or obstructions. Remove any screen protectors or cases if necessary.
- Look for signs of liquid damage by checking the Liquid Contact Indicator inside your SIM card slot.
Remove dirt and debris
- Power down your iPhone by pressing and holding the top or side button and dragging the slider.
- Slightly dampen a soft, lint-free cloth, avoiding using anything abrasive.
- Gently rub the Home button in circles until you’ve cleaned it sufficiently.
- Make sure the button is completely dry before powering your iPhone back on.
Pro tip: If your Home button stops working while connected to power, try unplugging your charger to see if the issue resolves itself. Always use Apple-certified chargers to avoid functionality problems.
Understanding how to troubleshoot your iPhone’s Home button can save you time and frustration. While it may require some specific steps, these methods help determine whether the problem is mechanical or software-related. Following this guide not only aids in fixing the Home button but also highlights the importance of regular maintenance and proper use of accessories. If your attempts are unsuccessful, consider reaching out to Apple support for further assistance.








