How to Clean a Phone Case Seemingly Beyond Repair

Phones are our constant companions in daily life. Calculators, calendars and communication are all at the touch of a button, but that also means physical contact with our phones is near constant. To keep you and your phone safe, it is important to learn how to clean a phone case properly and thoroughly. 

Even when the damage seems beyond repair, there may be steps you can take to make your case look brand-new again.

Why Should I Clean My Phone Case?

You might have heard of this infamous study that found more bacteria on a sample study of phones than on toilets. While this seems alarming, remember that many people bring their phones to the bathroom, and public spaces and drop them on the ground from time to time. 

Like we wash our hands and disinfect our spaces, it is a good idea to continue this practice with our phones and phone cases. 

Cleaning and maintaining may also ensure a longer life for your phone. Dried liquids and grime can build up over time and start to block ports, speakers, and sensors on your screen. Be sure to follow these steps to receive the most out of your appliance.

What If My Case Seems Beyond Repair?

Phone cases are vital to keeping our expensive technology safe, so if your case is in bad shape, sometimes it may be the better option to simply buy a new one. These symptoms below are possible signs that only cleaning your phone case will not protect your phone:

• Large cracks or holes in the material
• Peeling screen protector
• Leaking water excessively  (Some glitter cases may have deep cracks that are not easily patched.)

However, there are many examples where some household tools and know-how can repair and clean a phone case. 

All-Inclusive Deep Cleaning

Before addressing specific concerns about how to clean a phone case, complete a full deep-cleaning procedure. This process may remove dust, grime, and discoloration. If you have already tried a cleaning process, skip this section and work on your specific cleansing needs below. 

• Clean your workspace and your hands to limit the further spread of germs.
• Turn off and unplug your phone before slipping it out of the case. 
• With antibacterial wipes or spray on a cloth (microfiber works best) work your way through the edges, creases and crannies of the case.
• Certain types of cases (silicone and rubber) can be cleaned with soap, water and a brush to really get inside the buttons and small spaces.
• Let dry for at least 15 minutes. 
• If you have a microfiber cloth or glasses polishing cloth, wipe it down to prevent dust and debris. 
• Make sure to clean your phone so as to not track germs back inside the case. 

Facing Specific Repairs and Cleanings

These examples are common issues that many mobile users face every year, but you will not find every type of phone case repair below. Seek your local mobile phone repair business for more information or advice.

1. Yellowing Discoloration

Discoloration is a common problem with clear, silicone phone cases. If the deep clean did not remove the color warp, this simple mixture may do the trick. 

Mix warm water with one teaspoon of bleach and let your phone soak for 10 minutes. After drying and wiping with your cloth, reassess the coloring of your newly clean phone case. For certain cases, a longer soak time may be needed.

2. Scratches

Scratches can come from friction in your pockets, drops, or any contact with sharp edges. Thankfully, a common household item will blur these marks: white toothpaste. 

Simply wipe toothpaste over the scratches to blur the marks and remove staining.

3. Food or Debris Stuck Inside

Dropping a phone case in food or some sort of grime may be cleaned with a mixture of equal parts water and vinegar. It is best to wipe residue away quickly so it does not become sticky, but if this is the case, consider a long soak in this mixture.

4. Paint Stains

For a silicone case, chipping may remove large chunks of paint. If there is still some residue, soak in soapy water for 30 minutes and then scrub with a brush. 

For a rubber case, first, try erasing the marks with a colorless eraser. If the stain persists, your alcoholic antibacterial wipes may be another great option.

The Secret to a Clean Phone Case

The best way to keep your phone case clean is to watch where it goes. Consider leaving it out of the bathroom and similar spaces to prevent germs. Complete daily sanitizing and regular deep cleaning to target your needs. 

Even for the case seemingly beyond repair, there are actionable steps to owning a clean phone case.