It’s frustrating to see how the plastics in our consoles, computers, containers, Tupperware, toys, and all those items made of plastic degrade. Over time, these items turn from white to a yellowish color. If you think this is the time to change your devices because they have turned yellow, you are not right.
There are several ways to make your consoles and other plastic items spotless again. This article will show you how to whiten plastic by removing that unpleasant yellowish tone.
In addition, we will give you some tips to prevent this from happening. It is almost impossible for plastic not to turn yellow. Still, there are ways to slow down this process so that you can enjoy your white devices for longer than average.
How to bleach yellow plastic?
The plastics in electronic devices have the facility to turn yellow over time, but how do you get them back to their original color? Here are some solutions to this frequent problem. We recommend that, as a precaution, you use gloves to perform any of the following processes.
Sodium bicarbonate
Baking soda is a compelling and helpful product for whitening plastic items, allowing the object to return to their original color. This chemical element helps to eliminate germs and other bacteria that may be present in appliances and is even useful for whitening teeth or dental plaque.
To whiten yellowish items with baking soda:
- Pour half a glass of baking soda into a container with boiling water.
- Let it sit for a few minutes to avoid burning yourself, and during this time, find a cloth to dampen it in soapy water.
- Wipe the yellow areas of the appliance with this mixture.
- After cleaning with soap and water, use baking soda with hot water. Wet a sponge with this liquid and gently wipe the device with circular movements.
- Let it act for 10 minutes until you notice that the yellow disappears.
- To finish the process, remove the remains with water only.
Hydrogen peroxide
If you do not have baking soda, you can opt for hydrogen peroxide. Clean the appliance with soap and water to remove surface dirt. Then, pour hydrogen peroxide into a bucket and completely submerge the device in the container. Let the object stand in the hydrogen peroxide in daylight for at least 6 hours.
Now you can go back to your daily activities, and, after this time, you will notice that your objects are white, and the yellowing will no longer be a problem.
Bleach
A product that you will indeed have in your house is bleach, the one you use to clean the bathroom or kitchen. This product is potent and will help you clean your yellow devices. Mix half a glass of bleach with cold water until you notice that it is a homogeneous liquid, and start working. Wet the objects with a sponge and let them stand for 10 minutes. After this time, rub them with a cloth with water until you remove the yellowish remains.
For greater effectiveness, you can mix the three elements mentioned above. Pour half a glass of hydrogen peroxide, three tablespoons of baking soda, and water into a container.
White vinegar
If you prefer something simpler, you can go to the store for a bottle of white vinegar. This condiment serves as an antioxidant, so it will help whiten your items. The only drawback that may arise during this procedure is the smell. Still, you can do it outdoors to avoid dizziness or symptoms that may produce such an intense stench.
You can dilute the vinegar in water so the smell is not so strong. However, for more effectiveness, it is advisable to do it with pure vinegar. Place the vinegar in a bowl and soak the appliances in the vinegar. You can help yourself with a toothbrush to speed up the cleaning process.