Why Does My Clear Phone Case Turn Yellow?
You carefully picked out a clear phone case to show off your beautiful phone's design, but over time, it's turned a dingy yellow. What gives?
Clear phone cases are prone to yellowing due to a combination of factors, including:
1. Degradation of Plastic:
- The Culprit: Most clear phone cases are made from polycarbonate (PC), a type of plastic known for its durability and transparency. However, PC is susceptible to degradation when exposed to UV rays from sunlight.
- How It Works: UV radiation causes the chemical bonds in PC to break down, leading to a change in color. Think of it like a piece of paper turning yellow in the sun.
- The Takeaway: The more exposure to sunlight, the faster the yellowing process.
2. Oxidation:
- The Culprit: Exposure to air and moisture can also contribute to yellowing. This is due to a process called oxidation.
- How It Works: When plastic is exposed to oxygen, it can react to form yellowed byproducts. This process is similar to how metal rusts.
- The Takeaway: Cases stored in humid environments or those that are frequently handled with sweaty hands might yellow more quickly.
3. Use of Certain Cleaning Products:
- The Culprit: While you might be tempted to use harsh cleaning products to keep your case spotless, some can actually accelerate yellowing.
- How It Works: Strong chemicals like bleach can damage the plastic's molecular structure, making it more prone to discoloration.
- The Takeaway: Always check the cleaning product's label for compatibility with plastic and opt for gentle, soap-based cleaning solutions.
4. The "Age Factor":
- The Culprit: Even if you take good care of your phone case, it's still a fact of life that plastic ages over time.
- How It Works: The natural breakdown of the plastic material can lead to a yellowish tint, even without significant exposure to UV rays.
- The Takeaway: It's simply part of the process of owning a clear phone case.
Beyond The Basics:
While the above reasons provide a good understanding of the mechanics behind yellowing, it's worth noting that the rate of yellowing can also vary depending on the specific type of plastic used, the quality of the case, and even the manufacturing process.
Preventing the Yellowing Blues:
- Choose High-Quality Cases: Opt for cases made from high-grade materials that are known to resist yellowing.
- Limit Sun Exposure: Try to avoid leaving your phone in direct sunlight for prolonged periods.
- Store Properly: Store your case in a cool, dry place when not in use.
- Use Gentle Cleaning Methods: Stick to mild soap and water when cleaning your case.
- Don't Fear Replacement: If your case does yellow, don't be afraid to replace it!
Additional Tips:
- DIY Cleaning Hack: According to a How-To article on wikiHow, you can try soaking your case in a mixture of baking soda and water. This might help to remove some of the discoloration.
- UV Protection: You can find cases that offer UV protection, which can help slow down the yellowing process.
Don't Let Yellowing Ruin Your Phone Case Style! By understanding the causes and implementing some simple preventative measures, you can keep your clear phone case looking fresh and transparent for longer.