Why clear phone cases turn yellow

Silicone phone cases, commonly known as clear cases, are one of the most popular options due to their ability to protect the device without obscuring its design . However, over time, these cases begin to look compromised, as they tend to turn yellow.

If your phone currently has this case and you’re noticing it’s turning yellow, this article is for you. Here, we’ll explain why clear phone cases turn yellow , as well as how to easily prevent yellowing .

• Does the material of clear cases cause them to turn yellow?
  • What causes clear cases to turn yellow?
  • Is it possible to prevent yellowing of clear phone cases?

Does the material of clear cases cause them to turn yellow?

Almost all clear cases are made from a material called TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane). The characteristics that make this material the preferred material for most clear phone case manufacturers are its flexibility and durability , both of which offer good protection against bumps and drops.

Although this material is very popular for its durability, it has a defect that often appears over time: it is susceptible to environmental influences , which causes sudden yellowing.

In short, it could be said that the material of the transparent covers is the main culprit for making them turn yellow .

What causes clear cases to turn yellow?

The discoloration process is due to several factors, although the main ones that cause them to turn yellow are the following:

• Natural oxidation : Over time, TPU material reacts with oxygen in the air, a chemical process known as oxidation. This causes the material to lose its transparency and acquire a yellowish hue.
• Dirt and oils : Constant contact with our hands leaves oils and other substances that accumulate on the case. These oils, along with dirt particles present in the environment, contribute to the yellowing of the case.
• Temperature : Exposure to high temperatures also accelerates yellowing of clear cases. Even the heat from the phone itself or the environment can affect the case.
• Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet rays : Sunlight is one of the main causes of color changes in these types of covers. UV rays affect the chemical compounds in the material used to make them, causing a reaction that degrades the material and turns it yellow.

Is it possible to prevent yellowing of clear phone cases?

While it is inevitable that covers of this style will turn yellow over time, there are several steps you can take to delay this process :

• Clean the case regularly : Cleaning the case frequently to remove accumulated dirt and oils can help reduce the rate at which yellowing occurs.
• Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun : Storing your phone in shaded areas and avoiding exposing the case directly to sunlight will help keep it in better condition.

Without much further ado, the best advice we can give you to prevent your phone case from turning yellow is to buy a case made of another material . You can find sock cases online , or the famous colored plastic cases (these usually hide the phone’s design).