We Tested Both Methods to Save Your Discolored Phone Case!
[The Problem: Why Phone Cases Turn Yellow]
Over time, phone cases (especially clear ones) yellow due to UV exposure, oxidation, and chemical reactions in plastics like TPU or silicone. While some embrace the "vintage" look, others want their cases restored. We tested two popular DIY methods to see which works best.
[Method 1: Hydrogen Peroxide (H₂O₂) Fumigation]
What You’ll Need
1. 3% hydrogen peroxide (common household grade)
2. Airtight container (plastic box or glass jar)
3. Aluminum foil (to line the container)
4. UV light source (sunlight or UV lamp)
How It Works
Hydrogen peroxide breaks down yellowing molecules through oxidation. Combined with UV light, the reaction speeds up.
Results
✅ Works for white/opaque plastics (ABS): Restores 80-90% of original color after 48-72 hours.
❌ Fails on clear TPU cases: Leaves them cloudy or uneven.
⚠️ Warning: Prolonged exposure weakens plastic durability.
![Before/after: A white plastic case restored with H₂O₂ fumigation.]
[Method 2: UV Bleaching]
What You’ll Need
1. Strong UV light source (direct sunlight or UV lamp)
2. Patience (this takes days!)
How It Works
UV light breaks down discolored molecules on the surface. However, it doesn’t reverse deep oxidation.
Results
✅ Slight improvement for TPU cases: Reduces surface yellowing by 20-30% after 5-7 days.
❌ No magic fix: Won’t restore clear cases to their original state.
🌞 Bonus: Sunlight is free, but results vary by weather.
![A TPU case under UV light showing minimal fading after a week.]
Head-to-Head Comparison
Final Recommendations
For white/opaque cases: Use hydrogen peroxide fumigation for quick whitening.
For clear TPU cases: Try UV bleaching to slow further yellowing, but consider replacing the case.
Prevention: Store cases away from sunlight and clean them monthly with alcohol wipes.
When to Give Up
If your TPU case is beyond saving, recycle it or repurpose it as a DIY project (e.g., cable organizer). Sometimes, letting go is the eco-friendliest choice!
Save your case or save your sanity? Now you know! 📱✨
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