How To Clean Your Phone Case Properly (Complete 101 Guide)

by Sam N. • Jun 16, 2025

We all love a fresh, shiny phone case but between daily commutes, coffee runs, and nights out, your case probably sees more grime than you realize. Don’t worry cleaning your phone case is simple, and doing it the right way keeps it looking brand new for longer.

In this ultimate 101 guide, we’ll break down how to clean every type of phone case, what to avoid, and quick tricks you can do today.

Why You Need to Clean Your Phone Case

Your phone case goes everywhere with you — gym, bathroom, subway, bottom of your tote. Germs, dirt, makeup smudges, and even that sticky latte drip can build up fast.

A dirty phone case:

  • Looks dull and stained

  • Can cause skin breakouts if you hold your phone near your face

  • Harbors bacteria that you probably don’t want anywhere near your hands

So, if you’ve never cleaned yours — don’t stress. Let’s fix that today.

 How To Clean Different Types of Phone Cases

Different materials need different care. Here’s exactly how to tackle yours:

1. How To Clean a Clear Phone Case

Clear cases look amazing — until they start turning yellow or cloudy. Here’s how to fight that:

✅ What You Need:

  • Dish soap

  • Warm water

  • Toothbrush or soft cloth

  • Baking soda (for extra whitening)

Step-by-step:
1️⃣ Fill a bowl with warm water & add a few drops of dish soap.
2️⃣ Soak your clear case for a few minutes.
3️⃣ Use the toothbrush to gently scrub any stubborn spots — especially corners.
4️⃣ Rinse with clean water and dry with a soft cloth.
5️⃣ Bonus tip: Sprinkle baking soda on tough yellow spots and scrub gently.

Example: If you notice makeup or denim stains on the edges, a quick baking soda scrub usually does the trick!

2. How To Clean a Silicone or Rubber Phone Case

Silicone and rubber cases are popular for their grip and flexibility — but they can attract lint and dust.

What You Need:

  • Mild dish soap

  • Warm water

  • Toothbrush or microfiber cloth

Step-by-step:
1️⃣ Make a soapy water mix in a bowl.
2️⃣ Dip the toothbrush or cloth into the soapy water.
3️⃣ Gently scrub the entire case, focusing on corners and button cutouts.
4️⃣ Rinse and wipe dry.

Example: Got glitter stuck to the inside? Soak for an extra 5 minutes — it’ll lift right off.

3. How To Clean a Plastic or Hard Phone Case

Plastic and hard-shell cases can get scratches, so avoid harsh scrubbing.

What You Need:

  • Mild soap

  • Warm water

  • Soft cloth

Step-by-step:
1️⃣ Dip the cloth in soapy water.
2️⃣ Gently wipe the entire surface, inside and out.
3️⃣ Use a dry cloth to buff it clean.

Example: If you have a Velvet Caviar case with printed artwork — be extra gentle to keep your design vivid!

🌿 4. How To Clean a Leather Phone Case

Leather cases are timeless — but they need a little more TLC.

✅ What You Need:

  • Leather cleaner (or mild soap)

  • Soft dry cloth

  • Leather conditioner (optional)

Step-by-step:
1️⃣ Use a dry cloth to wipe off any loose dirt.
2️⃣ Dampen the cloth slightly with soapy water — don’t soak it!
3️⃣ Wipe the leather gently.
4️⃣ Pat dry with a dry cloth.
5️⃣ Apply leather conditioner if you want it extra smooth.

Example: Got a coffee splash on your leather case? Wipe it ASAP to avoid stains.

🚫 What Not To Do

  • Don’t use bleach or harsh chemicals — they can ruin the material.

  • Don’t toss your case in the dishwasher (yes, people do this!).

  • Don’t soak leather — it warps and cracks.

How Often Should You Clean Your Phone Case?


👉 Once a week is ideal - but even once a month is better than never.
👉 Wipe it down daily with a disinfecting wipe if you’re always on the go.

 Bonus Tips To Keep Your Case Looking New

✔️ Avoid leaving your case in direct sunlight for long periods - it can fade or yellow.
✔️ Switch cases every now and then - your backup case deserves love too!
✔️ Store extra cases in a clean drawer or bag to keep dust away.

Wrap-Up: Keep It Fresh, Keep It You

A clean phone case = a fresh vibe. Make cleaning your phone case part of your self-care routine — just like wiping your screen or cleaning your earbuds.

Your phone is an extension of your style - treat it right!

Need a new case? If yours is past saving, explore Velvet Caviar’s latest designs. From clear sparkle to bold prints - your next case is waiting. ✨

Got a cleaning hack? Drop it in the comments - we love hearing your tips!