Many of us have yellowed plastic items at home—old appliances, toys, a bathroom exhaust fan, or even kitchen utensils. Should we just throw them away? Well, maybe not. That would be incredibly wasteful, not to mention environmentally unfriendly, considering the plastic is still functional. Here are some methods to clean and whiten yellowed plastic, restoring it to its original color.
Why Does Plastic Turn Yellow?
White plastic can yellow over time due to a chemical reaction triggered by exposure to sunlight, various substances, and other factors. However, there are several ways to reverse this discoloration. The method you choose depends on the size of the object and the tools you have available. Some techniques are simple and budget-friendly, while others might require a bit more investment.
Soaking Methods for Cleaning Plastic
Alcohol
If plastic has yellow stains, you can clean it with alcohol. Pour alcohol into a container and let the item soak for a few minutes. To ensure no alcohol residue remains, rinse the item under running water afterward.
Bleach
Bleach is much more effective (and much stronger) than natural substances. It can be used to tackle stubborn stains and odors, but it also requires you to wear protective gear and follow safety precautions—something that’s easy to forget when busy.
Vinegar
To remove stains from plastic, simply mix one part white vinegar with three parts water. Pour the solution over the stain until it disappears. If the plastic cannot hold liquid, pour the solution into a bowl and submerge the item. After a few hours, scrub it as usual and let it dry.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Cover the yellowed plastic with hydrogen peroxide using this method: place the plastic item in a plastic bag with enough hydrogen peroxide to fully submerge it. Leave it under direct sunlight for three to four hours. Rinse the item with clean water, and you’ll have a product that looks brand new, as if it just came out of the packaging.
Effervescent Aspirin Tablets
A simple way to reduce discoloration is to soak the plastic item in a mixture of hot water and effervescent aspirin tablets.
Drop the tablets into a bowl of hot water and let them dissolve. Once dissolved, pour the solution over or into the stained item and let it sit for about 30 minutes. Rinse the plastic with soapy water.
Scrubbing Methods for Cleaning Plastic
Salt
Apply a bit of salt to the stain using a damp cloth and start scrubbing. Dab the area with a cloth or paper towel, then sprinkle salt over it. Rub the salt into the plastic along the stain to remove it. Continue scrubbing until the stain disappears.
Baking Soda
One of the best ways to remove yellowing from plastic is by making a baking soda paste. Mix baking soda with water in a cup or container until it forms a paste, then apply it to the plastic and let it sit for a few hours. Wipe off the paste with a sponge or cloth, then rinse thoroughly.
Lemon Juice and Sunlight
First, take a fresh lemon and cut it in half. Then, rub both halves over the plastic and let the juice work its magic. Leave the item outside for a few hours, or ideally an entire day, allowing the sun to help remove the yellow stains.
Wash the plastic with warm soapy water or use an all-purpose cleaner to remove any residue. If stains remain after this method, try using a mild abrasive with water to scrub them away.
Pre-Bleaching Tips
Before applying any bleaching method, test it on a small, hidden section of the plastic to ensure it won’t cause damage. Once you’re sure it’s safe, proceed with the method.
To prevent skin discoloration, wear gloves when handling bleach. Use an old toothbrush to scrub the bleach into the plastic until it’s clean. After bleaching, rinse thoroughly with soapy water.
So, don’t throw away old plastic toys and household items! You can clean and whiten yellowed plastic. Restore their shine using simple household items and a little cleaning time. Just follow these easy steps and methods, and your plastic will look new for years to come!