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When the error was realized and the passport retrieved from the pocket of a shirt in the dryer, it was certainly damp and the cover and many pages had curled, but perhaps it can be reflattened by a stack of heavy books or something. The ink on the pages, including one important visa, seem to be fine and still legible. Not sure if there's some microchip or something which is now hosed, though. This is a fairly new US passport issued late 2013, if it matters.
Asking for a friend.
There is a guideline from the department of state when to replace one's passport if it has been damaged.
Take a look at State Departments FAQ to see if your friend will requirethis this. And from what you describe he does.
Years ago I jumped in a swimming pool with my passport in my back pocket (college days...) and had the same dilemma, so I understand your situation. It's a pain (especially for a brand new passport) but I'd definitely recommend changing it if there is significant damage. Many immigration personnel will turn you away at the border and whether you get a new passport really depends on whether you are willing to risk that.
Something to consider regarding the important visa currently in the passport: Countries where the passport holder is required to have a visa to enter are likely to be even more strict about a damaged passport...
Some years ago I forgot my passport in a pocket and put it in the washing machine. It looked pretty bad, but dried up well, the stamps were all still visible. I crossed borders of more than 10 countries with it without issues, got all kinds of visas in it and did not get a new one until it was full. So I wouldn't worry about it, and it makes you look like a very seasoned traveller. It was not a US passport though.
