What You’ll Need

• Hydrogen peroxide (6–12%) – liquid form, not cream

• Large plastic bin – big enough to fully submerge the Mac’s shell parts

• Clean water (if diluting concentrated peroxide)

• Clear lid or cling film – to trap heat and intensify UV

• Sunlight or a UV lamp

• Gloves and eye protection

• Optional: a bit of OxiClean (activator, makes it fizz a bit)
  
  
  
   

Step-by-Step: Retrobrighting by Soaking

1. Disassemble the Mac

• Fully remove all electronics—only the plastic should be submerged.

• Be gentle with clips and tabs; they get brittle with age.

2. Clean the Plastics First

• Wash with dish soap and warm water.

• Scrub off dirt so the peroxide can work on the actual surface.

3. Prepare the Peroxide Bath

• Fill your bin with enough hydrogen peroxide to cover all parts.

• If using a high-concentration peroxide (like 35%), dilute it with water to ~10–12%.

• Add a small scoop of OxiClean (optional, helps activate the peroxide with oxygen bubbles).

4. Submerge and Seal

• Place the plastic parts in the bath, making sure they’re fully submerged.

• Use plastic mesh, rocks, or zip ties to keep them from floating.

• Cover the bin with clear plastic wrap or a transparent lid.

5. Expose to UV

• Place the entire bin in direct sunlight for 6–12 hours (or longer if yellowing is deep).

• Sunlight warms the bath and activates the peroxide.

• Stir gently or rotate parts occasionally if possible.

6. Rinse and Dry

• Remove parts, rinse thoroughly with water, and inspect the results.

• Dry completely before reassembly.

7. Repeat if Necessary

• Some yellowing might need a second round, especially if it’s deep or uneven.

Notes and Warnings

• ALWAYS wear gloves and goggles when working with peroxide—especially in large amounts.

• Don’t use metal tools in the bath—it reacts with peroxide.

• Don’t leave in sun too long, or the plastic can warp if the bin gets too hot.

• Do this outdoors or in a well-ventilated area—oxygen off-gassing can build up pressure.