Clear Phone Cases – Why Do They Turn Yellow?
If you own a clear phone case for any length of time, you may have noticed it discoloring over time due to UV light exposure and natural oils from your hands. To minimize this happening, ensure it gets regular cleanings while staying out of direct sunlight.
Some clear cases are more susceptible to yellowing than others, with silicone being one of the main culprits. As it’s an inexpensive, low-grade material, silicone tends to turn yellow more rapidly than materials such as TPU or polycarbonate. Furthermore, case type also plays an integral role; harder, inflexible cases tend not to show yellowing nearly as fast.
Yellowing of clear phone cases is typically caused by exposure to UV rays from sunlight. UV light breaks down long polymer chains found within a phone case, creating several shorter chains which accentuate its natural yellow hue. Heat can speed this process further; for this reason it’s wise to store your case away from hot environments like direct sunlight or an oven as these environments will hasten its decay.
Environment factors that could contribute to yellow discoloration on a phone case include dirt, sweat and grease build-up from hands using their phones with oily palms; this then transfers onto the case resulting in yellowing discoloration that’s difficult to get rid of.
Regular cleaning with mild soap and water solution will keep a clear phone case from yellowing over time, and for tough stains try spot removers such as baking soda or Isopropyl alcohol; bleach can damage plastic, so it should be avoided as much as possible.
Consider investing in a clear phone case constructed of non-plastic materials like wood, bamboo and leather – each boasts its own aesthetic and feel while often being less susceptible to yellowing than conventional plastic cases.
Even if your clear phone case turns yellow, it doesn’t necessarily signal doom for it. There are various strategies out there for removing yellowing from plastic products; most don’t work well or could permanently damage them. To combat yellowing effectively and sustain its longevity, clean regularly while limiting exposure to harsh chemicals; otherwise consider purchasing another case altogether.
