How to Clean a Yellow Silicone Phone Case

It is easy to clean your yellow silicone phone case. However, one common issue with silicone cases is that they can turn yellow over time. This discolouration can be unsightly and make your phone case look dirty, even clean. Fortunately, you can restore your silicone phone case to its original colour with the proper methods and materials. In this guide, we’ll explore why silicone cases turn yellow, preventive measures you can take, and detailed cleaning methods.

Why Do Silicone Phone Cases Turn Yellow?

Silicone phone cases turn yellow for several reasons:

1. Exposure to UV Light: Prolonged exposure to sunlight or UV light can cause the silicone to oxidize, leading to a yellowish tint.
2. Natural Oils and Dirt: The oils from your skin, sweat, and dirt can accumulate on the Case over time, causing discolouration.
3. Chemical Reactions: Certain chemicals in lotions, makeup, and cleaning products can react with the silicone, causing yellow.
4. Ageing: The material can degrade and change colour over time due to its chemical composition.

Preventive Measures

While it’s challenging to prevent yellowing entirely, there are some steps you can take to slow down the process:

1. Avoid Direct Sunlight: Don’t leave your phone in the sun for extended periods. When not in use, please place it in a pocket or purse.
2. Clean Regularly: To remove grease and grime, wipe your mobile phone case regularly with a microfiber cloth.
3. Use Mild Cleaning Products: Avoid harsh chemicals when cleaning your phone case. Instead, opt for gentle soap and water.
4. Remove the Case Periodically: Allow your phone case to breathe by removing it from your phone now and then. This may lessen the accumulation of oils and moisture.

Cleaning Methods

Now, let’s explore the various methods to clean your yellow silicone phone case.

Method 1: Soap and Water

This is the most straightforward and most accessible cleaning method. It’s effective for light discolouration and general dirt.

Materials Needed:

• Mild liquid soap (e.g., dish soap)
• Warm water
• Soft cloth or sponge
• Toothbrush (optional)

Steps:

1. Remove the Case: Take the silicone case off your phone.
2. Prepare the Solution: In a bowl, stir some mild liquid soap and warm water.
3. Soak the Case: Submerge the phone case in the soapy water and let it soak for 15-30 minutes.
4. Scrub Gently: Use a gentle rag or sponge to scrub the Case gently. Use a toothbrush to scrub the crevices and nooks to eliminate the complex.
5. Rinse and Dry: Rinse the Case thoroughly with warm water to remove any soap residue. Pat it dry with a clean towel and let it air dry completely before putting it back on your phone.

Method 2: Baking Soda and Water

As a mild abrasive, baking soda can assist in removing stains and discolourations from the silicone’s surface.

Materials Needed:

• Baking soda
• Water
• Small bowl
• Toothbrush

Steps:

1. Remove the Case: Take the silicone case off your phone.
2. Create a Paste: In a small basin, combine baking soda and a tiny amount of water to produce a thick paste.
3. Apply the Paste: Cover the yellowed areas of the Case with the baking soda paste.
4. Scrub Gently: Use a toothbrush to scrub the paste into the Case gently. Focus on the discoloured areas.
5. Rinse and Dry: Rinse the Case thoroughly with warm water to remove the baking soda. Pat it dry with a clean towel and let it air dry completely before putting it back on your phone.

Method 3: White Vinegar and Water

A natural cleaner that can assist in removing stains and eliminating bacteria is white vinegar.

Materials Needed:

• White vinegar
• Water
• Spray bottle
• Soft cloth or sponge

Steps:

1. Remove the Case: Take the silicone case off your phone.
2. Prepare the solution: Mix equal amounts of water and white vinegar in a spray bottle.
3. Spray the Case: Spray the vinegar solution onto the phone, covering all the yellowed areas.
4. Let it Sit: Let the solution sit on the Case for about 10-15 minutes.
5. Scrub Gently: Use a gentle rag or sponge to scrub the Case gently.
6. Rinse and Dry: Rinse the Case thoroughly with warm water to remove the vinegar. Pat it dry with a clean towel and let it air dry completely before putting it back on your phone.

Method 4: Use Hydrogen Peroxide to Clean the Yellow Silicone Phone Case

Robust bleaching solutions like hydrogen peroxide can be utilized to remove tough stains.

Materials Needed:

• Hydrogen peroxide (3%)
• Small bowl
• Soft cloth or sponge
• Gloves (optional)

Steps:

1. Remove the Case: Take the silicone case off your phone.
2. Soak the Case: Pour enough hydrogen peroxide into a small bowl to submerge the phone case.
3. Let it Soak: Submerge the phone case in the hydrogen peroxide and let it soak for about 30 minutes to 1 hour.
4. Scrub Gently: Use a gentle rag or sponge to scrub the Case gently. Wearing gloves is advised since hydrogen peroxide can be harsh on the skin. Proceed with caution.
5. Rinse and Dry: Rinse the Case thoroughly with warm water to remove the hydrogen peroxide. Pat it dry with a clean towel and let it air dry completely before putting it back on your phone.

Method 5: Use Toothpaste to Clean the Yellow Silicone Phone Case

Toothpaste contains mild abrasives that can help lift stains and discolouration from the surface of the silicone.

Materials Needed:

• White toothpaste (non-gel)
• Toothbrush
• Soft cloth

Steps:

1. Remove the Case: Take the silicone case off your phone.
2. Apply Toothpaste: A tiny bit of white to the Case’s yellowed sections.
3. Scrub Gently: Use a toothbrush to scrub the toothpaste into the Case gently. Focus on the discoloured areas.
4. Rinse and Dry: Rinse the Case thoroughly with warm water to remove the toothpaste. Pat it dry with a clean towel and let it air dry completely before putting it back on your phone.

Additional Tips for Clean Yellow Silicone Phone Case

• Test First: To ensure a cleaning solution won’t damage the Case or produce more discolouration, test it on a tiny, discrete area before using it on the entire Case.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Avoid harsh solvents like acetone or bleach, as they might exacerbate the discolouration and harm the silicone.
• Store Properly: When not in use, store the phone case in a cool, dark place to prevent exposure to sunlight and other elements that can cause discolouration.
• Replace When Necessary: If the yellowing is severe and doesn’t come off with cleaning, it might be time to replace your silicone phone case. They are relatively inexpensive and come in a variety of colours and designs.

Final Thoughts for Clean Yellow Silicone Phone Case

Yellowing silicone phone cases is a common issue, but with regular maintenance and the proper cleaning methods, you can keep your Case looking fresh and clean. Knowing why your phone covers yellows and taking preventative action can help keep it looking newer for longer. Remember to clean your Case regularly, avoid direct sunlight, and use gentle cleaning solutions to keep it in the best condition possible.

FAQs

Why does my silicone phone case turn yellow?

Silicone phone cases turn yellow due to exposure to UV light, natural oils and dirt from your skin, chemical reactions with products like lotions and makeup, and the natural ageing of the material. These factors cause the silicone to oxidize and discolour over time.

Can I clean my yellow silicone phone case with bleach?

It’s not recommended to use bleach to clean your silicone phone case. The harsh chemical bleach may harm the silicone substance in the Case, intensifying the yellowing or making the Case brittle and shatter. Opt for gentler cleaning solutions like mild soap, baking soda, white vinegar, or hydrogen peroxide.

How often should I clean my silicone phone case to prevent yellowing?

Cleaning your silicone phone case every few weeks is best to prevent yellowing. Regular cleaning removes accumulated dirt, oils, and other substances contributing to discolouration. Wipe down your Case with a microfiber cloth regularly and deep clean it using one of the methods described every month or as needed.

Can I use hydrogen peroxide on my silicone phone case without risk?

Hydrogen peroxide (3% concentration) is generally safe for cleaning silicone phone cases. An efficient bleaching chemical that can assist in getting rid of discolouration and deep stains is hydrogen peroxide. However, it’s essential to rinse the Case thoroughly after soaking and scrubbing to remove all residue. Also, consider wearing gloves to protect your skin while handling hydrogen peroxide.

How can I prevent my silicone phone case from turning yellow again?

To prevent your silicone phone case from turning yellow again, follow these tips:

• Steer clear of UV or direct sunlight for extended periods.
• Regularly Case the Case with a mild soap and water.
• Avoid contact with harsh chemicals and products that can cause discolouration.
• Remove the Case from your phone periodically to allow it to breathe and reduce moisture buildup.
• Store the Case in a cool, dark place when not in use to minimize exposure to elements that cause yellowing.