How to Clean Your Phone Case

Your phone case is the first line of defense against daily wear and tear, but it also collects germs, dust, and grime. Keeping it clean not only makes it look better but also extends its lifespan and maintains its effectiveness in protecting your phone.

How to Clean Silicone and Plastic Phone Cases

When it comes to keeping your phone case clean, the material makes all the difference. Both silicone and plastic cases are popular choices, each requiring a slightly different approach to cleaning. Here’s how you can keep both types looking like new.

Common Steps

Remove the Case: Always take the case off your phone to prevent moisture from getting into your device.

Dust Off: Start by wiping down the case with a dry, soft cloth to remove any surface dust and dirt.

Wash Gently: Mix a bit of mild soap with warm water. Dip a lint-free cloth into the solution and wring it out so it’s damp, not wet. Gently wipe the case inside and out.

Dry Thoroughly: After cleaning, dry the case with a clean towel or let it air dry completely before putting it back on your phone.

For Silicone Cases

  • Attracting Lint: Silicone cases can attract lint and pet hair. After the initial dry wipe, use a lint roller to pick up any remnants.
  • Dealing with Stains: For stubborn stains, apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol on a cotton ball and gently dab the stained area. Rinse quickly under cold water if the material allows, and pat dry.
  • Final Touch: Once clean, you might consider using an anti-static spray lightly applied to the case to reduce future dust and lint attachment.

For Plastic Cases

  • Scratch and Scuff Removal: Plastic cases show scratches more easily. To minimize the appearance of fine scratches, make a paste of baking soda and water. Rub this gently onto the affected areas with a soft cloth, using circular motions.

  • Avoiding Yellowing: Over time, clear plastic cases can develop a yellow tint. To combat this, ensure that after cleaning, the case is kept out of direct sunlight and cleaned regularly to prevent oil build-up, which can contribute to discoloration.

  • Deep Clean: If the case is particularly greasy or dirty, consider using a mixture of vinegar and water for a deeper clean. Apply this with a spray bottle, let sit for a few minutes, then wipe away with a soft cloth.

Special Considerations for Advanced Features

If your phone case has cool features like a foldable stand or MagSafe compatibility—like the Torras Spin or Guardian MagSafe—you'll want to keep them in top shape. Here’s how to maintain these extras effectively and keep them looking good:

  • For Foldable Stands and Mechanical Parts: Dirt and dust can sneak into the smallest spaces and jam up your case's moving parts. A soft-bristled brush is perfect for coaxing out any stubborn grit without scratching anything. If you notice any sticky spots, lightly dabbing them with a cotton swab moistened with a bit of alcohol can do the trick. Just make sure things stay drier than damp.

  • MagSafe and Magnetic Elements: Magnets can attract more than just your charging cable; they also pick up dust and lint. To clean these areas, gently brush them with a soft, dry cloth. If there's a greasy fingerprint or two, a quick wipe with a cloth barely dampened with isopropyl alcohol can help remove them without risking any damage.

  • Textured Grips and Embossed Details: These designs can trap dirt a bit more than smooth surfaces, so they need a gentle approach. A soft brush or a lightly soaped-up cloth can lift away dirt without grinding it down. Finish up by patting everything dry with a clean cloth to make sure no moisture lingers where it shouldn’t.

Taking care of these special features doesn’t have to be a chore. A little regular maintenance will keep your phone case functioning beautifully and extend its lifespan, ensuring your phone stays secure and stylish.

What Should You Never Do When Cleaning Your Phone Case?

When cleaning your phone case, there are a few key don'ts to keep in mind to avoid damage:

  1. Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Never use bleach, ammonia, or other harsh chemicals. They can degrade the materials of your case, causing discoloration and weakening of the structure.

  2. No Excessive Water: Do not submerge your phone case in water, especially if it's not water-resistant. Excessive moisture can seep into crevices and damage both the case and potentially your phone.

  3. Steer Clear of Abrasive Materials: Stay away from rough materials like scouring pads. These can scratch the surface of your case, making it look worn and reducing its protective capabilities.

  4. Avoid Direct Heat: Don't dry your phone case with a hairdryer or place it on a radiator. High temperatures can warp and distort the shape of your case.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your phone case remains in top condition, continuing to protect your device effectively.

When Is It Time to Get a New Phone Case?

Sometimes it’s not just about whether your phone case can still take a hit. Here are a couple of straightforward signs that it’s time for a fresh one:

1. It Looks Rough: If your case is starting to look like it’s been through a few too many drops, with cracks or parts that are peeling off, it's probably a good call to grab a new one. Plus, a fresh case just feels nice.

2. It Doesn’t Fit Right Anymore: Like that old favorite t-shirt that’s not quite the right size anymore, your phone case can stretch out over time, especially the silicone ones. A loose case isn’t doing its job right, which means your phone isn’t as protected as it could be.

3. New Phone, New Needs: If you’ve upgraded to a new phone or if your lifestyle has changed—maybe you need more rugged protection for outdoor activities, or you want a case with a built-in wallet for convenience—it’s a good time to reassess your current phone case.


Here’s a quick overview of the different types of phone cases and their features:

  • Stands: If you need a versatile stand for hands-free viewing, consider the Ostand R 360°, Pstand, or Lstand. These cases provide sturdy support and flexible viewing angles.

  • Magnetic: For seamless MagSafe compatibility, the Guardian Ostand offers a strong magnetic hold and easy attachment to MagSafe accessories.

  • Transparent: If you prefer a clear case that shows off your phone’s design while providing MagSafe compatibility, the Clear Ostand MagSafe is a perfect choice.

  • Ultra-thin: For those who prefer a sleek and minimalistic design, the Origin MagSafe case offers ultra-thin protection without compromising on MagSafe functionality.

If conditions permit, you can update your phone case regularly. Remember, a case is not just an accessory, it's a safety net for your precious cell phone!

FAQs

Can I clean my phone case with baby wipes?

While baby wipes are a handy option, they often contain lotions or other chemicals that can degrade the materials used in phone cases over time, particularly silicone or soft plastic. If you're in a pinch, they can be used lightly, but it's generally safer to use just a damp cloth with a bit of mild soap for regular cleaning.

How can I prevent my clear case from turning yellow?

Clear cases, especially those made from silicone and some plastics, can yellow over time due to exposure to UV light, oils, and other environmental factors. To minimize this effect, keep your case out of direct sunlight as much as possible. Regularly cleaning your case can also help, as it removes oils and dirt that can contribute to yellowing. Using a UV-resistant spray designed for plastics can offer additional protection.

Are there any natural alternatives for cleaning my phone case?

For a more eco-friendly cleaning solution, a half-and-half mixture of water and white vinegar can be very effective. This natural cleaner is suitable for most types of phone cases, including plastic and silicone. Apply the mixture with a soft cloth, gently scrub as needed, and then rinse the case under running water to remove any residue of the vinegar solution, which will prevent any lingering smell.

How do I clean a phone case with glitter or other decorations without damaging it?

Phone cases with glitter or other decorative elements require gentle handling to avoid dislodging any decorations. Lightly dabbing with a wet cloth is recommended. If you need to address dirt or buildup around the decorations, use a soft-bristled brush (like a toothbrush) to gently scrub around the decorations, not over them. Avoid using any harsh solvents or scrubbing directly on the decorations, as this can cause them to peel off or lose their finish.