Restore the Whiteness of Your Yellowed Mobile Phone Cover
When the white transparent cover of your mobile phone turns yellow, it can be due to exposure to UV light, heat, or the aging of the material. This article will guide you through various methods to restore its whiteness.
Understanding the Cause of Yellowing
Clear phone cases are typically made of silicone, a flexible and inexpensive polymer. However, as this material ages, it undergoes a natural degradation process, which often results in yellowing. This yellowing can be accelerated by excessive exposure to light and heat, as well as contact with certain chemicals.
Methods to Restore the Whiteness of Your Phone Cover
1. Soap and Water
Gentle and effective, the soap and water method can help revive your yellowed cover.
Begin by mixing mild soap with warm water. Submerge a soft cloth in the solution and gently scrub the cover. Rinse the cover with clean water and dry it thoroughly.2. Baking Soda Paste
The baking soda paste method can be particularly effective for stubborn yellows.
Prepare a paste using baking soda and water in a 3:1 ratio. Apply the paste to the yellowed areas and scrub gently with a soft cloth or toothbrush. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes, then rinse and dry the cover.3. Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide can help whiten the cover and enhance the whitening effect when left in sunlight.
Use a 3% concentration of hydrogen peroxide. Soak a cloth with the solution and apply it to the cover or submerge the cover, if possible. Exposure to sunlight for a few hours can further enhance the whitening effect. Rinse and dry the cover once it has been left to sit.4. Toothpaste
Non-gel, non-whitening toothpaste can be used to gently clean the cover.
Apply a small amount of toothpaste to the cover and gently scrub it with a soft cloth. Thoroughly rinse the cover with water and dry it.5. Commercial Products
Specific products designed to restore plastics can help remove yellowing. Look for plastic cleaners or restorers to use on your cover.
6. UV Treatment
If you have access to a UV light, exposing the cover to a short UV treatment can help reduce yellowing.
Precautions
Always test any cleaning method on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it does not damage the cover. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as they can scratch or further damage the surface. If these methods do not work, consider replacing the cover for a more permanent solution.
Preventing Yellowing of Clear Phone Cases
When a clear phone case turns a yellow color, it can be distressing, especially if you have a new one. This section will provide tips on how to prevent your phone case from yellowing in the first place.
Tip 1: Clean the Phone Case with Dish Soap
A simple yet effective way to clean your phone case and prevent yellowing is by using dish soap.
Make a mixture of one cup of warm water (240ml) and a few drops of dish soap. Submerge a toothbrush in the solution and use it to scrub the phone case, being sure to clean all nooks and crannies. Rinse the phone case thoroughly and dry it with a soft cloth. Air dry for at least an hour before storing it. Repeat this process on a regular basis to remove excess oils and chemicals that can degrade the material.Tip 2: Scrub with Baking Soda
Baking soda is a versatile cleaning agent that can help remove stains.
Sprinkle baking soda over the surface of the phone case and use a wet toothbrush to work it into the stain. Rinse the baking soda off and dry the phone case with a soft cloth. Follow up with step one to ensure all baking soda residue is removed.Tip 3: Disinfect with Rubbing Alcohol
Regularly disinfecting your phone case can also help prevent yellowing. It is also a good hygiene practice.
Use a spray bottle filled with rubbing alcohol or dip a soft cloth in alcohol to coat the phone case. Once coated, use a clean, dry cloth to remove the alcohol and leave the phone case to air dry for an hour. This method not only cleans but also kills bacteria, making your phone case more hygienic.