In this article, we’ll delve into why is my Macbook Charging Cable turning Yellow or a similar shade, exploring the science behind the discoloration and offering tips on how to prevent and address it.
If you’re a MacBook user, you might have encountered a perplexing situation: your once pristine white charger cable has started to turn an unsightly shade of Yellow. This unexpected transformation can be both confusing and concerning.
The same problem occurred to me recently, leaving me feeling confused and stupid as I may have got a duplicate cable.
Nonetheless, the yellow appearance of the Apple Macbook charging cable made sense as I researched the topic thoroughly across the web.
In this Article, we'll see:
The Anatomy of a MacBook Charger Cable
Before we unravel the mystery of the yellowing charger cable, it’s essential to understand the materials that make up this integral component of your MacBook setup.
Apple’s chargers consist of a white outer casing, typically made of a durable, rubber-like material, housing the internal wiring and connectors.
Apple Charging Cable Turning Yellow: The Culprit is Oxidation!
One of the primary reasons your MacBook charger cable may be turning yellow is oxidation. The same oxidation causes rusting of metals over time and is responsible for food rotting when left in unsuitable conditions.
It (Oxidation) is a natural chemical process that occurs when certain materials react with oxygen in the air. In the case of your charger cable, the white rubber exterior is susceptible to oxidation, leading to gradual yellowing over time.
Oxygen molecules interact with the polymers in the rubber, causing them to break down and change color.
Charging Cable Turning Yellow also differs based on various environmental factors.
These include but are not limited to:
- Heat or high-temperature
- Direct Exposure to Sunlight
- Humidity in your current environment
Over time, these external elements contribute to the degradation of the rubber material, leading to the yellowish discoloration you observe.
Environmental Factors
As mentioned earlier, environmental factors play a significant role in oxidation. Moreover, some factors can accelerate the process even further than what is considered to be expected.
For example, exposing your MacBook charger cable to sunlight for prolonged periods can accelerate the yellowing. High temperatures and humidity levels can also expedite the chemical reactions that cause the rubber to break down.
Also, it is worth noting that the degree of yellowing can vary based on your geographical location and how you use and store your MacBook charger. Users in warmer and more humid climates may notice a faster discoloration rate than those in more relaxed, drier regions.
Addressing Yellowing Cables: How to Properly Clean the Yellow Macbook’s Charging Cable?
If your MacBook charger cable has already turned yellow, you can try a few DIY methods to mitigate the discoloration. Return that fresh, out-of-the-box look to your Charging Cable by following the tips below.
Now, Ain’t this a great news!
1) Using Mild Cleaning Solutions
You can attempt to clean the cable with a mild cleaning solution. Mix a small amount of mild detergent or baking soda
2) Retractable Cable
Some users opt for retractable cable organizers. These products allow you to retract the cable into a protective case when not in use, minimizing exposure to the elements.
These cables take great care of your MacBook’s charging cable. Retractable cords help maintain the fresh look and reduce wearability issues of the line.
3) DIY Cable Sleeves
If you feel crafty, you can create your cable sleeves using fabric or heat-shrink tubing. This DIY approach can provide an additional layer of protection and potentially extend the life of your charger cable.
Not to forget, the effectiveness of these tips will mostly depend on the condition of Apple’s Charging Cable and the degree of discoloration. In short, you cannot clean every Apple Cable turned Yellow.
Therefore, it is advisable to purchase a new cable instead of cleaning the Yellow Charging cable. Ultimately, not all discolored apple cables are worth the cleaning effort.
If your wire has seen better days, purchase a new Apple Magsafe or Type-C Charging Cable and use the tips in the next section to maximize its fresh white appearance and life span.
How Do I protect my Macbook’s Charging Cable?
While the yellowing of your MacBook charger cable is a natural occurrence, there are preventive measures to slow down the process and keep your cable looking as good as possible for as long as possible.
1) Store the Magsafe or Type-C Macbook charging Cable Properly
Store your MacBook charger in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight when not in use. Consider using a cable organizer or a cable holder to prevent unnecessary bending or twisting that could accelerate wear and tear.
2) Avoid Exposure Extreme Temperatures
Try to keep your charger away from extreme temperatures.
Avoid leaving it, for example, in your car on hot days or exposing it to freezing temperatures.
Also, if the charging cable is behind a desk, make sure that there are no objects from switch boards or computer devices that can heat the cable.
3) Gentle Cleaning
If you notice early signs of yellowing, you can gently clean the cable with a damp, soft cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or solvents, as they can further damage the rubber.
Macbook charging cable turning yellow is a common effect in regions with extreme temperatures and / or humidity.
4) Use Cable Protectors
Consider investing in cable protectors or sleeves designed to shield your charger cable from environmental elements. These accessories can add an extra layer of protection, preventing direct exposure to air and sunlight.
5) Rotate Usage of Macbook’s Cables
If you have multiple chargers, consider rotating their usage to distribute wear and tear more evenly.
You can also try keeping multiple cables at different places in your home. While some cables may go behind a desk, others rest at different corners of your home. However, it requires proper cable management and multiple cables to begin with!
Conclusion
The yellowing of your MacBook charger cable is a common occurrence resulting from oxidation, a natural process influenced by environmental factors. While it may not be entirely preventable, taking proactive measures to store and use your charger responsibly can slow down discoloration.
Additionally, if your cable has already turned yellow, there are methods to address the issue and restore its appearance. Follow this Apple’s Forum for further details.
Understanding the science behind the yellowing process ultimately empowers MacBook users to make informed choices and care for their charger cables more effectively. By incorporating these tips into your routine, you can prolong the life of your MacBook charger cable and maintain a clean and functional charging setup.
Again, we are only trying to maintain the cable’s brand new or out-of-the-box condition for a more extended period. Most things we do not control will play their role, and the natural wearing and tearing of the cable will continue over days, months, and years.
Leave a Reply