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Banishing Yellow Stains: Cleaning and Restoring Retro Consoles
The golden age of video gaming produced various iconic consoles, which even after decades continue to hold nostalgic value for gaming enthusiasts worldwide. However, a common issue retro console owners face is the unsightly yellow stains that mar the pristine white surface of these devices. This problem is primarily due to a chemical reaction involving a flame-retardant compound added to the plastic during manufacturing. Here’s an in-depth guide on how to banish those yellow stains and restore the retro consoles to their original glory.
Understanding The Yellowing Process
Before jumping into the cleaning methods, let’s delve into the science behind the yellowing of retro consoles. The plastic used in these consoles contains a compound called bromine. This bromine, mixed with other chemicals, forms a Brominated Flame Retardant (BFR), designed to slow down or prevent fires. Over time, exposed to UV light and heat, bromine starts to displace itself and interact with oxygen, resulting in the yellowing of the console’s shell.
The Retrobright Method
The most popular method for reversing yellowing in consoles is the Retrobright method. This method involves creating a homemade gel consisting of hydrogen peroxide, Xanthan gum, and Oxy laundry booster. However, you can also buy pre-made products named retrobright. The essential idea is to break down the yellowed bromine compounds on the surface of the plastic, thereby restoring it to its original color.
Ingredients and Tools required for Retrobright Method
To apply the Retrobright method, you’ll need a set of specific ingredients and tools. They are hydrogen peroxide (12% concentration preferred), Xanthan gum, Oxy laundry booster, a Blender, a Small brush, Plastic wrap, and UV light (sunlight or UV lamps).
Procedure for Retrobright Method
First, you’ll need to form a paste with the above-mentioned ingredients. In a blender, add a small amount of hydrogen peroxide and a teaspoon of Xanthan gum, blend until a gel forms. Then add a spoonful of Oxy laundry booster and mix it thoroughly. Now your retrobright mixture is ready.
You’ll need to disassemble your console to expose the yellowed plastic parts. Ensure you’re careful not to damage the internal workings of the console. Once done, ensure the plastic surfaces are clean and free from dust or oil. Apply the retrobright mixture evenly to the console’s plastic parts, making sure every stained area is covered.
After the application, cover the parts with plastic wrap. This step prevents the hydrogen peroxide from evaporating quickly and helps maintain the gel to stay in contact with the console shell for a more extended period. The next step is the exposure to UV light. If you live in a sunny region, leaving the treated parts under direct sunlight for 6-8 hours should be sufficient. Ensure to turn them occasionally for even exposure. If sunlight is not an option, UV lamps are a good alternative.
After the UV exposure, remove the plastic wrap and wash the parts thoroughly using water. Dry the components completely before reassembling the console. Repeat the process if you still see yellow stains.
Remember, the Retrobright method is best for light to moderate yellowing. Also, it’s worth noting that this method doesn’t prevent subsequent yellowing. Over time, untreated bromine in the plastic might start to surface again, leading to re-yellowing. Consider this method as a temporary restoration technique and not a permanent fix.
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