How to Restore Yellowed Plastics
Over time with exposure to sun white plastics can often yellow. The yellow may just be on the surface, or it may run deeper. If you have a product of high value that has yellowed, chances are good that you will want to restore it to it's original color. This is a risky process, but if done correctly, it is well worth the results.
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Things You'll Need
- Comet or baking soda
- Scrub pad
- Water
- Plastic or cardboard
- Tape
- Spray paint designed to adhere to plastic
Instructions
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Use bleach. White or gray plastics can yellow over time. Your first thought would be to bleach it out, but this will not work unless the area is only damaged from smoke exposure. The yellowing of the plastic will most likely go beyond just the surface and you will have to work the piece to restore the original color.
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Wet the plastic and use either comet or baking soda to scrub the surface. This process will work like sand paper and remove the top layer of the plastic. If the item is painted or of high value this will remove the top layer of the surface along with any discoloration. You want to use great caution if doing this on a valuable item, as it may compromise it's value.
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Continue working the product and wiping it occasionally with a wet cloth until the surface is back to it's original white color. You might need to repeat this process every few years if the item continues to be exposed to sunlight or other elements.
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For added protection and to prevent further yellowing, touch up the newly cleaned plastic with a white paint made to adhere to plastic. Krylon makes a paint especially designed for plastics called Fusion. You will want to take cardboard or plastic and tape it to cover over any surface area that you do not want to paint. You will also want to use a drop cloth. Spray the exposed surface with the paint, and then let dry for twenty-four hours. Repeat as necessary.
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Tips & Warnings
If it is just the surface that is dirtied from smoke you can try to just wash it with bleach and a soft sponge.
Another option of restoring yellow plastics is to paint it with paint created for plastics.
Be very careful if you are cleaning a product that is of high value.
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Comments
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I've heard it's bad advice to use bleach since it can easily make the plastic more brittle. Instead people recommend a solution of hydrogen peroxide, xanthum gum, and and Oxi enhanced laundry soap.
