Let's be clear about one thing: Your phone is F-I-L-T-H-Y. It carries 10 times the number of germs a toilet seat does, so don't expect your phone case to be any cleaner. With flu season in full swing and the new coronavirus spreading, it's better to take precautions than to fall prey to sickness. Show So please, clean your damn phone case already. If you're looking for a basic wipe-down, Apple has a cleaning guide for its cases. But if you need something more robust, we've got you. Here's how you can disinfect that nasty, yellowing case that stares you down every time you look at your phone. PlasticGerms live here. Credit: Getty Images / iStockphoto Plastic is relatively durable compared to other smartphone case materials, so it will survive tougher and more effective cleaning solutions, like bleach. If you're uncomfortable working with that, though, feel free to use dish soap instead. (For a bleach-free method, follow the instructions for rubber and silicone cases.) What you need:
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Aftercare: Wipe your case down with a disinfecting wipe weekly and repeat this routine once a month. Rubber and siliconeNo matter how pretty the case, it's still covered in bacteria. Credit: Getty Images / iStockphoto Rubber and silicone are a bit more delicate than plastic, so you'll have to use a milder cleaning solution. But that also means you might not be able to get all the gunk out in one try. In any case, start by using a dish soap solution, and if stains and yellowing persist, try baking soda after. What you need:
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Note: Don't boil your silicone case or stick it in a dishwasher, as you might with silicone cookware. It could shrink the case. Aftercare: Wipe your case down with a disinfecting wipe weekly and repeat this routine once a month. WoodYour wood case will need a bit of TLC. Credit: Wicker Paradise Liquid can cause some wood and wood finishes to shrink or expand. But this vinegar solution is generally safe to use on all types of wood and finishes — just be sure not to soak your case in it. What you need:
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Aftercare: This solution functions as an all-purpose, everyday wood cleaner. Save whatever you have left of the solution and repeat this routine weekly. LeatherHigh maintenance AF Credit: Getty Images / iStockphoto Leather is the snowflake of all these phone case materials — it's sensitive to oil, dyed materials, makeup, sunlight, heat, and humidity. Once you stain it, there really isn't an ideal way to address it. It's best to use a leather cleaner and follow the instructions there, but this works as a cheaper alternative, too. Just be mindful that the leather might slightly change color with whatever solution you choose to use. What you need:
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Aftercare: Keep your case out of direct sunlight, heat, humidity, and anything else that can stain it. Repeat this routine once a month — or more frequently if you prioritize cleanliness over preventing leather discoloration. How do I get sticky residue off my phone case?Rubbing Alcohol or Vodka
Wet a paper towel or clean rag with rubbing alcohol, and rub the residue to lift it off. For stubborn stickers, lay an alcohol-soaked rag on the area, and let it sit for several minutes to soften the residue. Use the rag to rub off what's left behind.
How do you get slime off a silicone phone case?PLASTIC & SILICONE PHONE CASES
To remove stains and to clean around the edges, gently scrub with a toothbrush. You can also add baking soda if you find a very stubborn stain. Continue scrubbing until all dirt is removed, then rinse your phone case in cold water. This even works great on clear plastic phone cases.
Why is my phone case always sticky?Sticky film build up on silicone or rubberized surfaces can occur when grease or oils are allowed to cling on the silicone surface. This can leave a sticky residue feeling to the touch, even after washing with soap.
Does vinegar clean silicone phone case?In the sink, add a tablespoon of bleach, two cups of vinegar, and water. Allow the silicone phone covers to soak for 30 minutes. Use a brush to gently scrub the phone case. Rinse with clean water and dry.
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