How to Clean a Silicone Phone Case

Learn how to thoroughly wash your phone case

Co-authored by wikiHow Staff

Last Updated: August 8, 2023 Fact Checked

Cleaning your silicone phone case is important as germs and dirt can build up. You can use soap and water to clean silicone, but all harsh cleaners should be avoided. In a pinch, disinfecting wipes are a great way to remove bacteria from your case. Make an effort to scrub your case thoroughly about once a month and disinfect it at least once a week.

Method 1

Method 1 of 2:

Washing the Case Monthly

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1
Remove your phone from its case to clean it. You must remove your silicone phone case before you can give it a thorough cleaning. Gently stretch a corner of your case to start pulling if off your phone. Continue lifting up the silicone case around the perimeter of the phone until you can pull the device out completely.^{[1]
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- Avoid pulling the silicone hard enough to damage or tear it.
The best cleaning solution for your silicone phone case is warm soapy water. Add dish washing liquid to a cup of water while it is still warm to ensure that the soap dissolves in it properly. Stir the mixture until it is slightly foamy.^{[2]
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3
Dip a clean toothbrush in the soapy water and scrub your case. Soak a clean toothbrush in your soap mixture for 1-2 minutes, then apply it to your silicone case. Scrub the case in small circular motions. Focus on stains or caked on dirt to get your phone case as clean as possible.^{[3]
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- Dip the toothbrush back into the soapy water every few seconds to ensure a thorough clean.
Baking soda can help to lift patches of oil, dirt, or debris on your phone case that are difficult to remove. Sprinkle a small amount of baking soda directly on the soiled are. Continue to scrub the case with the toothbrush.^{[4]
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When you are done scrubbing, rinse the soapy mixture off your phone in the sink. Use warm water as opposed to hot or cold water. Gently rub the case as you rinse to make sure that no soap remains on it.^{[5]
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6
Let the case dry completely before putting your phone back in it. Putting your phone back in your case when it is still moist may damage your phone and allow bacteria to build inside of the case. Dab your phone case with a paper towel to remove as much water as possible. Then, let your case sit for about an hour to be sure that it is dry and ready to use.^{[6]
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- If you are pressed for time, try drying your phone case with a blow dryer for a few seconds on the lowest setting.
Daily use of your cell phone means the regular transfer of oil and bacteria between you and your device. Keep germs and dirt to a minimum by cleaning your phone case at least once a month, inside and out. To remember to do this, set a monthly reminder or make a note on your calendar or in your agenda.^{[7]
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Method 2

Method 2 of 2:

Disinfecting the Case Weekly

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Disinfecting only the outside of your phone case is ineffective as bacteria can linger between your phone and its case. Always remove your phone to sanitize the case thoroughly. Be sure to target germs on both the inside and outside of the silicone case for the best results.^{[8]
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Cleveland Clinic
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2
Wipe down your case with a disinfecting wipe at least once a week. Rub a disinfecting wipe all over the inner and outer surface of the case. Let the case sit for several minutes to dry. When you are sure that it is dry, put your phone back in.^{[9]
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- This is also a good way to disinfect your phone case quickly if in comes in contact with germs.
3
Rub the case with isopropyl alcohol to kill germs if you don’t have wipes. Apply rubbing alcohol to a cotton swab or cotton ball. Swipe the alcohol-soaked cotton over both the inner and outer surfaces of your phone case. This will kill bacteria lingering on the case. ^{[10]
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- The rubbing alcohol should dissipate within seconds of applying it.
Make sure there is no lingering moisture in the case, as this could damage your phone. Wait a few extra minutes to ensure the case is totally dry before putting it back on your phone.
5
Avoid using harsh cleaning products on your case. Strong, concentrated cleaning products can cause damage to silicone items. Refrain from using any harsh cleaning chemicals on your phone case. These may include:^{[11]
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Federal Communications Commission
Independent U.S. government agency responsible for regulating radio, television, and satellite, and phone communications

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- Household cleaners
- Window cleaners
- Cleaners with ammonia
- Cleaners containing hydrogen peroxide
- Aerosol sprays
- Solvents

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Tips

Be careful washing your phone case if it has crystals, rhinestones, or other decorative elements on it.

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Opt for a dark-colored silicone phone case to avoid stains.

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Warnings

Don't boil your phone case to disinfect it as the silicone may shrink.

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Dye transfer stains from clothing are usually permanent on silicone.^{[12]
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