Smartphone cases are items that are used daily, but transparent or clear cases in particular have the problem of yellowing easily. As the yellowing progresses, it looks bad and the case loses its appeal. In this article, we will explain the causes of smartphone case yellowing and how to prevent it.

What causes your phone case to turn yellow?

The yellowing of smartphone cases isn't just a result of aging, but is also influenced by several specific factors. The following causes are often not widely known, so it's important to pay attention to them in order to actually prevent them.

Chemical reactions of materials

Some cheap plastic or silicone cases react with oxygen and moisture in the air during use, causing oxidation and yellowing. Silicone materials are particularly prone to deterioration over time due to their flexibility, making the yellowing particularly noticeable.

Ultraviolet ( UV ) radiation accumulation

If you use your smartphone outdoors on a daily basis, direct exposure to UV rays can cause changes in the molecular structure of plastic or silicone materials, resulting in yellowing. Cases without UV protection are more likely to show signs of this over time.

Hand sweat and sebum

Sweat and sebum secreted from the palm of your hand can adhere to the case, causing yellowing. Especially in summer or in humid environments, the sebum often oxidizes and changes the color of the case. Yellowing also tends to concentrate in areas that come into contact with the oils of your fingers.

Chemicals and lifestyle habits

Chemicals found in cosmetics, perfumes, and cleaners can react with the material of your phone case and cause discoloration. Airborne pollutants, such as cigarette smoke and car exhaust, can also adhere to your phone case, causing yellowing.

By knowing these causes, you can reduce the risk of your smartphone case turning yellow and find preventative measures to keep it looking nice and fresh for longer.

How to prevent your phone case from turning yellow

To prevent your phone case from yellowing, it's important to take care of it regularly and use it in an environmentally friendly manner. Below are some specific steps you can take to prevent yellowing.

Choose a case with UV protection

The most effective way to prevent yellowing caused by UV rays is to choose a case with UV protection. Even if you can't avoid direct sunlight when you're out and about, choosing a case with UV protection can help reduce yellowing even over long periods of use. When choosing a case, it's a good idea to check not only the UV protection but also whether the quality of the case will be maintained.

Remove the case periodically and clean it

Accumulation of sweat, sebum, and dust in the air can cause yellowing to progress. Regularly removing the case and cleaning it is effective in preventing yellowing. Simply wiping it with a microfiber cloth will remove most of the dirt, and light cleaning will help maintain the clarity of the case. After cleaning, be sure to dry it thoroughly before using it again.

Storage method to protect the case

When not in use, remove the case and store it in a well-ventilated place. Humidity will cause yellowing to progress more quickly, so it is important to store it in as dry a place as possible. Furthermore, when storing it in a bag or pocket, be careful not to leave it in direct sunlight or in a high-temperature location for an extended period of time.

Avoid external factors that affect your case

When using your smartphone on a daily basis, try to avoid contact with chemicals, cigarette smoke, exhaust fumes, etc. on the case. Contact with these substances can cause discoloration of the material. Yellowing of the case is particularly noticeable in smoking environments, so it is best to use your smartphone in as clean a place as possible.

Apply anti-yellowing coating

There are also cases on the market that are coated with antibacterial and stain-resistant materials. These cases are less likely to get dirty and less likely to yellow. Choosing such a coating will help keep your case clean and prevent yellowing.

Be creative in choosing materials

Silicone and other flexible materials tend to yellow easily. Therefore, choosing a material that resists yellowing, such as polycarbonate or TPU, will help keep your phone looking fresh for longer. Especially for transparent cases, choosing a durable material will help prevent deterioration over time.

By following these methods, you can prevent your smartphone case from yellowing and keep it looking beautiful for a long time.

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What kind of smartphone case is less likely to yellow?

Choosing the right material is crucial to preventing your smartphone case from yellowing. Below we will introduce the features and materials of smartphone cases that are less likely to yellow.

Polycarbonate (PC) case

Polycarbonate is a very strong material that easily maintains its transparency. Even if it does not have UV protection, it is resistant to UV rays and oxidation, so it is resistant to yellowing. It also has excellent heat resistance, so it is resistant to discoloration even in high-temperature environments and tends to maintain its transparency even after long-term use.

TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) case

TPU is a flexible, durable material that resists yellowing. It yellows less quickly than silicone cases, making transparent TPU cases easier to maintain their beauty over the long term. TPU is also scratch-resistant, so dirt and oils can be easily wiped off.

Silicone case (but high-quality one)

Silicone cases are popular with many users because they are flexible and fit comfortably in the hand, but cheap silicone cases tend to yellow easily. However, high-quality silicone cases tend to be less prone to yellowing and are often more durable. Choosing a high-quality silicone case will help prevent yellowing while maintaining its softness.

Leather case

Leather cases can be used without worrying about yellowing. Leather is breathable and does not absorb moisture easily, making it less likely to yellow. Leather also develops a patina with use, so it maintains its beauty over time. However, if you prefer a transparent case, leather cases are a different option, so it's important to consider your preferences.

Matte finish case

Matte-finish cases are less likely to yellow than glossy transparent cases. Matte-finish cases have a non-glossy surface, so dirt and sebum are less noticeable and they are less likely to yellow. Choosing a matte finish is one way to slow down the progression of yellowing while maintaining the beauty of a transparent case.

Custom Design Case

Recently, customizable design cases have become popular, but because these cases are printed or processed, the material itself is often less likely to yellow. In particular, cases with colors or designs tend to retain their beauty even after long-term use, as yellowing is less noticeable.

Related article: What is TPU material? What are its benefits? Introducing recommended TPU smartphone cases

summary

To prevent your smartphone case from yellowing, it's important to choose the right material and take care of it regularly. Choose materials that are resistant to yellowing, such as polycarbonate or TPU, and regularly clean and use UV protection.

When choosing a smartphone case, it's important to consider both functionality and design. For example, TORRAS smartphone cases are made with durable TPU and PC materials, which not only prevent yellowing but also add a stylish touch. Furthermore, the built-in 360° rotating stand makes watching videos and video calls more convenient and practical.

TORRAS offers cases for various models, including iPhone SE cases , iPhone 16 cases , and iPhone 15 cases , each of which combines high quality and design. They are highly durable and will stay in good condition even after long-term use.

If you're looking for a stylish and convenient smartphone case, TORRAS products are highly recommended.