Restoring White: How to Make Yellowed Plastic on Appliances Bright Again

Introduction:
Over time, white plastic parts on household appliances—like refrigerator handles, washing machine knobs, or microwave trim—can take on an unsightly yellow hue. This yellowing is usually caused by a combination of UV light exposure, oxidation, heat, and the breakdown of flame-retardant chemicals in the plastic. Fortunately, you don’t need to replace these parts or spend a fortune to restore their original brightness. With a few household ingredients and a little patience, you can make yellowed plastic white again.

Ingredients:

You will need:

• 1 cup hydrogen peroxide (3% solution)

• 1 teaspoon baking soda (optional for added cleaning power)

• Clear plastic wrap (cling film)

• A small bowl or container

• Soft-bristle toothbrush or sponge

• Rubber gloves (to protect your skin)

• UV light source (sunlight works great)

Preparation:

1. Clean the Surface:
   Begin by wiping down the yellowed plastic with a damp cloth and a bit of dish soap to remove surface dirt, grease, and grime.

2. Prepare the Whitening Mixture:
   In a small bowl, mix 1 cup of hydrogen peroxide with 1 teaspoon of baking soda (optional). The baking soda can help slightly abrade the surface and boost whitening.

3. Apply the Mixture:
   Using a toothbrush or sponge, apply the mixture generously to the yellowed plastic. Make sure every discolored area is thoroughly coated.

4. Wrap with Plastic Wrap:
   Cover the treated plastic with a layer of clear plastic wrap. This prevents the peroxide from drying out and helps intensify the bleaching process when exposed to UV light.

5. Expose to Sunlight:
   Place the appliance (or the detachable plastic part) in direct sunlight for 3–6 hours. UV light activates the hydrogen peroxide, helping to reverse the yellowing.

6. Rinse and Dry:
   After the treatment, carefully remove the plastic wrap, rinse the plastic with water, and wipe it dry with a clean cloth.

Serving and Storage Tips:

• For safety, avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach directly on appliances, especially those with electronic components.

• Always test a small hidden area first to ensure the peroxide does not react poorly with your appliance.

• Use gloves to protect your skin and avoid prolonged exposure to hydrogen peroxide.

• Store leftover hydrogen peroxide in a cool, dark place to maintain its potency.

Variations: