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How To Clean A Clear Phone Case That Turned Yellow

Clear phone cases are a favorite among smartphone users because they protect your device while showing off its design. Unfortunately, over time, these once-pristine cases can turn an unsightly yellow. This discoloration not only diminishes the case’s aesthetic appeal but can also make your phone look older and dirtier than it is. The good news? You don’t have to replace your yellowed case just yet.

With the right cleaning techniques, you can restore your clear case to its original state. In this article, we’ll explain why clear phone cases turn yellow and offer three effective methods to clean them. These simple solutions will help bring your case back to life and keep your phone looking sharp.

Why Do Phone Cases Go Yellow?

The yellowing of clear phone cases is a natural process that happens over time due to the materials used to make them. Most clear cases are made from a type of plastic called thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). TPU is durable and flexible, making it a popular choice for phone cases, but it has a downside—it is prone to yellowing when exposed to various environmental factors.

One of the main reasons phone cases turn yellow is oxidation, a chemical reaction that occurs when the TPU is exposed to air and UV rays from the sun. This exposure causes the polymers in the plastic to break down, leading to a yellow or brown tint. Additionally, oil and sweat from your skin, dirt, and heat can accelerate the yellowing process, making the case look grimy and aged. While it’s impossible to completely stop this process, regular cleaning can significantly slow it down and help maintain the case’s appearance.

Three Methods Of Cleaning A Clear Phone Case That Turned Yellow

There are several ways to clean a yellowed phone case, and the best method depends on how discolored the case has become and the materials you have available. Below, we’ll explore three proven techniques to restore your clear phone case to its former glory.

Method 1: Baking Soda Scrub

Baking soda is a popular household cleaning agent because of its natural abrasive properties. It’s great for gently scrubbing away stubborn stains and discoloration without causing damage to the case itself.

  1. Materials: Baking soda, water, a soft toothbrush or sponge.
  2. Steps:
    • Remove your phone case and sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the yellowed areas.
    • Dampen a soft toothbrush or sponge with water and gently scrub the baking soda into the case using circular motions. Focus on areas with the heaviest yellowing or grime.
    • Continue scrubbing for several minutes, making sure to reach all the nooks and crannies.
    • Rinse the case thoroughly under warm running water, ensuring that all baking soda residue is removed.
    • Dry the case with a microfiber cloth and let it air dry completely before placing it back on your phone.

Why it works: Baking soda’s mild abrasive texture helps lift stains and remove the yellow tint without being too harsh on the case material. It’s a safe, non-toxic option that works well for moderate yellowing.

Method 2: Hydrogen Peroxide Soak

Hydrogen peroxide is a powerful cleaning agent known for its ability to break down organic compounds. It’s especially effective in reversing the oxidation process that causes yellowing in phone cases.

  1. Materials: Hydrogen peroxide (3% solution), a shallow container, warm water, and a soft cloth.
  2. Steps:
    • Fill a shallow container with hydrogen peroxide, ensuring there’s enough to fully submerge the phone case.
    • Place the yellowed phone case into the solution and let it soak for 1 to 2 hours, depending on how discolored it is.
    • After soaking, remove the case and rinse it thoroughly under warm water to remove any leftover peroxide.
    • Dry the case with a clean cloth and allow it to air dry completely.

Why it works: Hydrogen peroxide is excellent at breaking down the bonds that cause discoloration, especially in cases that are heavily yellowed. It not only whitens the material but also disinfects it, making it a powerful dual-purpose cleaner. Be sure to rinse the case well to avoid leaving any residue.

Method 3: White Vinegar And Dish Soap Solution

White vinegar is another household staple known for its gentle yet effective cleaning properties. Combined with dish soap, it creates a solution that cuts through grease, grime, and yellowing on your phone case.

  1. Materials: White vinegar, dish soap, warm water, a sponge or brush.
  2. Steps:
    • Mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water in a bowl, then add a few drops of dish soap.
    • Submerge your phone case in the mixture and let it sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the solution to break down the yellowing and grime.
    • After soaking, use a sponge or soft-bristle brush to scrub the case, paying close attention to corners and any heavily discolored areas.
    • Rinse the case under warm running water and pat dry with a clean towel.

Why it works: Vinegar’s natural acidity helps break down oils and stains, while dish soap cuts through grease and dirt. This method is particularly effective for cases with light to moderate yellowing and is a safe, non-toxic option for regular cleaning.

Conclusion

Clear phone cases can start to yellow over time due to exposure to sunlight, oils, and dirt, but with the right cleaning methods, you can easily restore their transparency. Whether you choose to use a baking soda scrub, a hydrogen peroxide soak, or a vinegar and dish soap solution, each method is effective at removing yellowing and keeping your phone case looking as good as new. Regular cleaning not only helps maintain the appearance of your phone case but also extends its lifespan, saving you the cost of frequent replacements. Try these methods and enjoy a phone case that looks clean, fresh, and clear once again!