Why Do Clear Phone Cases Turn Yellow?

Clear phone cases have become increasingly more popular with the release of colorful smartphones. You spend so much time picking a color for your new phone that it can feel like a waste covering it up.

Clear phone cases allow you to show off your phone’s vibrant color, but some clear cases tend to garner some yellow hues after a while, which aren’t as appealing. You’re probably wondering why this is the case and how you can stop it.

We’re here to clear things up. Learn why your phone case has turned yellow and how to prevent it from doing so.

Has Your Clear Phone Case Gone Yellow? Here’s Why

Clear phone cases aren’t so clear after all. They have a natural yellow tint that manufacturers neutralize with a blue dye. Over time, the material degrades, and the yellow undertone begins to show. If your case has turned yellow, it’s not a stain or grime build-up, but rather natural degradation.

Ultraviolet Light Exposure

Ultraviolet (UV) light, usually from the sun, breaks down the molecular bonds that make up the case. As these bonds degrade, the natural yellow hue becomes more prevalent. UV light even alters the color of non-clear cases.

Heat

Heat can also break down the chemical bonds in clear cases. While the sun is the main culprit, your phone case can overheat with prolonged charging or high-level activity. If you hold your phone often throughout the day, the heat from your hands can affect your phone case.

Oil/Sweat

The natural oils and sweat from your skin build up on your phone over time, causing the clear case to appear more yellow and accelerating the degradation process.

Material

Not all clear phone cases are made from the same stuff. Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and silicone are commonly used to manufacture clear phone cases. They also turn yellow quicker than polycarbonate (PU) and graphene.

How Do You Keep a Clear Phone Case From Turning Yellow?

Regular Cleaning

Clean your clear case often with soap and water. Not only does this remove the oils building up, but it also cleanses the case of bacteria, which is why you should also clean non-clear protectors regularly.

If your case is starting to yellow, try using baking soda. Simply take the case off the phone, sprinkle some baking soda, and let it sit for about 30 minutes. Rinse off the baking soda and let your case dry completely before putting it back on your phone.

Repeat this process if needed, although it may be time for a new case if yours is still yellow after several attempts.

Avoid Direct Sunlight

Because UV light and heat promote the degradation of your case, do your best to keep your phone out of direct sunlight. Carry it in your pocket or bag instead of holding it in your hand.

Avoid Heat

Keep your phone case away from other heat sources, such as hot water or prolonged phone usage. Clean your case with warm water, not hot water. If your phone is overheating due to extended use, give it a break to cool down.

Choose an Anti-Yellow Case

Although clear cases will eventually yellow, anti-yellow products can keep them looking great for a long time. Accessories made from plastic are more susceptible to yellowing. Choosing a case with an anti-yellowing material like carbon will prolong its life while providing high protection.

Alternatives: Solid Color, Textured, and Art Phone Cases

Avoid the yellowing issue altogether by choosing a non-clear case. If you like the solid color of your phone, consider a solid-colored guard similar to it. You may even find a color you love even more.

Express yourself even further with textured and art cases. These add splashes of color and a nice feel to maximize your case’s personality.

Do Anti-Yellowing Clear Cases Work?

Anti-yellowing cases work to a certain extent. They won’t prevent yellowing forever, as all accessories degrade eventually, but they can stay clear much longer. Most clear cases are made from thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), which is much more susceptible to yellowing than other materials. Polycarbonate (PC) is more resistant to yellowing, prolonging your case’s transparency.

Anti-yellow cases may also have an anti-oxidant coating that helps prevent yellowing. This coating reduces the speed at which the chemical bonds degrade, maintaining the crystal clear look.

Frequently Asked Questions

How To Remove Yellowing From a Clear Plastic Case?

Soak your case in warm water and soap, then brush it. Rinse it and see if the yellow has been reduced. If not, soak it in warm water and baking soda for 30 minutes. Sprinkle baking soda on stubborn areas, brush, and rinse. If it’s still yellow, it’s time for a new one.

Final Thoughts

Clear cases are bound to turn yellow eventually, but that shouldn’t stop you from enjoying them while they last. Protecting your case from UV light, excessive heat, and natural oils from your skin can slow the degradation process. But no phone case lasts forever. When it’s time to replace yours, find a clear phone case from Casezao that matches your style!