Why do old consoles turn yellow?

Old video game consoles, especially plastic-based ones, are prone to turning yellow over time due to a variety of factors. The most common reason is the breakdown of a chemical reaction that occurs between the plastic and certain environmental elements. Here’s why this happens:

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1. Bromine in Plastic (Brominated Flame Retardants)

• Many older consoles (like the Super Nintendo, Sega Genesis, and PlayStation 2) were made using ABS plastic, which contains bromine as a flame retardant.
• Over time, exposure to UV light (from sunlight or fluorescent lighting) and air causes a chemical reaction in the bromine, leading it to oxidize and change the color of the plastic from white or gray to a yellowish tint. This process is often called "browning" or "yellowing".

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2. Exposure to UV Light

• UV light can also break down the chemical bonds in the plastic of old consoles, accelerating the yellowing process. For consoles that have been sitting in well-lit areas, the sunlight causes degradation in the material.

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3. Heat and Humidity

• Older consoles may have been exposed to high temperatures and humidity, such as being stored in attics or garages. These conditions can also speed up the yellowing process, as heat and moisture react with the plastic over time.

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How to Clean Yellowed Consoles?

If your console has turned yellow, you can take steps to clean it up and restore its appearance. Here are some methods to remove yellowing from older consoles:

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1. Using Retrobright (Hydrogen Peroxide and Other Ingredients)

Retrobright is the most popular method for restoring the color of retro consoles. It involves a hydrogen peroxide-based gel that can break down the oxidized chemicals in the plastic, helping to reverse yellowing. Here's how you can do it:

Materials Needed:

• Hydrogen peroxide (3% solution, available at most pharmacies)
• Oxygen bleach (like OxiClean or Arm & Hammer)
• Plastic wrap or a UV-safe container
• Brush (for applying the solution)
• UV light source or direct sunlight

Step-by-Step Retrobright Process:

1. Disassemble the Console: Remove any internal parts and delicate components, like the controller ports, cartridge slot, or disk drive, if possible. Make sure to keep the console free of any components that could be damaged by the chemicals.
2. Prepare the Solution: Mix hydrogen peroxide (3% solution) with a small amount of Oxygen bleach. Some people also use Retrobright gels available online, which contain the peroxide mixture and other stabilizing ingredients.
3. Apply the Solution: Using a brush, apply the solution evenly over the yellowed plastic areas of the console. You can also dip a soft cloth in the solution and rub it onto the affected areas.
4. Wrap in Plastic: After applying the solution, wrap the console in plastic wrap to prevent the solution from drying out.
5. Expose to UV Light: Place the console in direct sunlight or under a UV light for a few hours. The UV light helps activate the peroxide, breaking down the yellowing. If using a UV lamp, you may need to keep the console under the lamp for up to 4-6 hours.
6. Clean and Rinse: After the treatment, remove the plastic wrap and gently rinse the console with warm water to remove any residual peroxide. Dry it completely.

Note: The Retrobright method works best for light to moderate yellowing. For severe yellowing, you might need to repeat the process or adjust the treatment time.

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2. Using Baking Soda and Water

If you don’t have access to hydrogen peroxide, another gentler option is a baking soda paste. This method works best for mild discoloration.

Materials Needed:

• Baking soda
• Water
• Cloth or sponge
• Soft brush (optional)

Step-by-Step:

1. Make the Paste: Mix equal parts of baking soda and water to create a thick paste.
2. Apply the Paste: Use a soft cloth or brush to gently apply the paste onto the yellowed areas of the console.
3. Scrub Lightly: Gently scrub the surface with a soft sponge or brush, making sure to avoid damaging the console’s surface.
4. Wipe and Dry: After scrubbing, wipe the console down with a damp cloth and dry it thoroughly.

This method may not be as effective as Retrobright, but it can help to reduce yellowing.

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3. Using Isopropyl Alcohol

Isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) is a mild solvent that can sometimes help with cleaning the surface of yellowed plastic, especially if the yellowing is due to dirt or grime build-up rather than chemical oxidation.

Step-by-Step:

1. Apply the Alcohol: Dampen a soft cloth or cotton swab with isopropyl alcohol.
2. Wipe the Console: Gently rub the cloth or swab on the yellowed areas of the console.
3. Clean and Dry: Wipe down the console with a clean, damp cloth and let it dry completely.

While this method might not restore the original color, it can help clean up surface dirt and grime.

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How to Keep Your Retro Console from Yellowing?

To prevent your console from yellowing in the future, consider these protective measures:

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1. Keep in a Dark, Cool Place

• UV light is the primary cause of yellowing, so store your retro consoles in dark areas (like a cabinet or shelf) where they aren’t exposed to direct sunlight or harsh lighting.
• Avoid storing consoles in humid areas, as moisture can also contribute to discoloration over time.

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2. Use UV Filters or Covers

• If you plan to display your retro console, consider placing it under a UV-filtering cover or a glass display case. This will protect it from sunlight and UV rays, helping to preserve the plastic.

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3. Use Console Skins or Covers

• Some people use console skins or plastic covers to protect the exterior of their retro consoles. These can provide an extra layer of protection from dust, UV exposure, and general wear and tear.

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4. Regular Cleaning and Maintenance

• Regularly clean your console using soft microfiber cloths to remove dust and dirt. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners that can damage the plastic surface.
• If you display the console regularly, be sure to dust it off at least once a month and keep it out of direct sunlight.

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Conclusion

Yellowing on old game consoles is a natural process that happens over time due to the breakdown of plastic caused by UV exposure, heat, and chemical reactions. However, with methods like Retrobright and some simple cleaning techniques, you can restore the appearance of your vintage hardware. To prevent future yellowing, it’s important to keep your console stored in a cool, dark place and protect it from prolonged UV exposure.