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How to Restore a Yellowed Super Nintendo Console: Step-by-Step Guide

25 September 2024 8 min read Mark Baxman

Introduction

The Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) remains one of the most beloved retro consoles of all time, offering a vast library of timeless games. However, if you’ve been storing your old SNES, you might notice an unfortunate side effect of aging: the once-gray plastic has likely turned a sickly yellow color. This yellowing effect, while common in many old electronics, can make your prized console look aged and neglected.

But don’t worry! This discoloration is reversible, and with the right methods, you can restore your SNES to its original glory. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover the science behind why this happens and walk you through step-by-step instructions on how to clean and restore a yellowed Super Nintendo console.

Why Does the SNES Turn Yellow?

The yellowing of SNES consoles is a result of a chemical reaction known as bromine aging. In the 1980s and 1990s, many plastic manufacturers added a flame retardant called bromine to the ABS plastic used in electronics to meet safety standards. Over time, the bromine reacts with heat, UV light, and oxygen, causing the plastic to yellow. This doesn’t affect the functionality of the console, but it does ruin its aesthetics.

Here’s a quick summary of why SNES consoles turn yellow:

  • Bromine: A flame retardant in the plastic that reacts with light and oxygen over time.
  • UV Exposure: Sunlight and UV light can accelerate this chemical reaction.
  • Heat: Prolonged exposure to heat, either from storage or use, can intensify yellowing.

Now that we know why it happens, let’s dive into how you can restore your SNES to its original, clean look.

Section 1: Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Before starting the restoration process, you’ll need to gather a few supplies. Fortunately, most of the materials are easy to find and affordable.

Required Materials:

  • Hydrogen Peroxide (12% or higher): This will act as the main chemical to reverse the yellowing.
  • Plastic Wrap or a Transparent Plastic Bag: Helps retain moisture during the treatment.
  • UV Light or Direct Sunlight: A UV light source is necessary to activate the hydrogen peroxide and restore the original color.
  • Screwdriver Set: You’ll need this to disassemble the SNES case.
  • Soft Bristle Brush or Toothbrush: For scrubbing hard-to-reach areas.
  • Gloves: For handling hydrogen peroxide safely.
  • Safety Goggles: To protect your eyes from any potential splashes of peroxide.

Optional materials:

  • Retrobrite Gel Kit: A ready-made solution that includes hydrogen peroxide and a thickening agent.
  • Plastic-safe cleaner: For initial cleaning to remove dirt and grime.

Section 2: Disassembling Your Super Nintendo Console

To effectively clean and treat the yellowed plastic, you’ll first need to disassemble the SNES. The outer shell is where most of the yellowing occurs, so it’s best to remove it before starting the restoration process.

Step 1: Gather Your Tools

You will need a small Phillips-head screwdriver and possibly a game bit screwdriver to remove the screws. Game bit screwdrivers are often needed for retro consoles because they use proprietary screws.

Step 2: Remove the Screws

  1. Turn the SNES upside down: On the bottom, you’ll find six screws holding the shell together.
  2. Unscrew the bottom plate: Carefully remove the screws and set them aside in a safe place.
  3. Separate the upper and lower halves: Once the screws are removed, gently separate the top half of the console from the bottom.

Step 3: Remove the Internal Components

Once the shell is open, you’ll see the motherboard and other internal components. Carefully unscrew and disconnect the components so you can work solely with the plastic shell.

  • Remove the motherboard and buttons: These are sensitive components that should not be exposed to hydrogen peroxide or UV light.
  • Take out the plastic buttons: The buttons may also yellow, so you can clean these separately using the same method.

Note: Make sure to take pictures or label where each part goes before you remove them to ensure you can reassemble everything correctly.

Section 3: Cleaning the Console Shell

Before applying the hydrogen peroxide treatment, you need to thoroughly clean the plastic shell. This will remove any dirt or debris that could interfere with the restoration process.

Step 1: Wash the Shell

  1. Fill a basin with warm, soapy water.
  2. Scrub the plastic shell: Use a soft-bristle brush or toothbrush to gently scrub the plastic. Pay special attention to corners and areas around buttons or ports.
  3. Rinse thoroughly: After scrubbing, rinse the shell with clean water to remove any soap residue.
  4. Dry completely: Allow the shell to air dry or use a lint-free cloth to remove excess moisture.

Section 4: Retrobright Treatment to Restore Color

The most effective method for restoring yellowed plastic is known as Retrobrighting. This technique uses hydrogen peroxide and UV light to reverse the chemical reaction that causes yellowing.

Option 1: The Hydrogen Peroxide Method

Step 1: Applying Hydrogen Peroxide

  1. Put on gloves and goggles: Hydrogen peroxide at high concentrations can be harmful to the skin and eyes.
  2. Place the plastic shell in a container: Use a large plastic or glass container where you can submerge the parts.
  3. Pour hydrogen peroxide: Submerge the yellowed plastic pieces in 12% or higher hydrogen peroxide.
  4. Cover with plastic wrap: Seal the top with plastic wrap to prevent the hydrogen peroxide from evaporating too quickly.

Step 2: Expose to UV Light

The key to this process is exposing the hydrogen peroxide-treated plastic to UV light. You can either:

  • Place the console in direct sunlight for 4–6 hours, rotating occasionally to ensure even exposure.
  • Use a UV lamp if you’re doing this indoors. Make sure to use the lamp for the same amount of time.

Step 3: Monitor the Process

Check the plastic regularly. After several hours, you should start to see the yellowing fade. Depending on the severity of the yellowing, the process may take anywhere from 4 to 12 hours.

Step 4: Rinse and Dry

Once you’re satisfied with the color restoration:

  1. Remove the plastic from the peroxide solution.
  2. Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove any chemical residue.
  3. Dry completely before reassembling the console.

Option 2: Using Retrobrite Gel

Alternatively, you can use a Retrobrite gel kit, which contains a hydrogen peroxide-based gel that’s easier to apply. This method is ideal for those who prefer a more hands-on approach without submerging their parts in liquid.

  1. Apply the Retrobrite gel directly to the yellowed plastic.
  2. Cover with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
  3. Expose to UV light or sunlight for several hours, checking regularly.
  4. Rinse and dry once the process is complete.

Section 5: Reassembling the Console

Once the plastic has been restored to its original color, it’s time to reassemble the SNES.

Step 1: Reinstall the Internal Components

Carefully place the motherboard, buttons, and other components back into the plastic shell. Refer to the pictures or notes you took during disassembly to ensure everything goes back in the correct position.

Step 2: Replace the Screws

Once the internals are back in place:

  1. Align the upper and lower halves of the console shell.
  2. Reinsert the screws and tighten them securely.

Section 6: Preventing Future Yellowing

Now that your SNES is looking fresh and new, you’ll want to take steps to prevent it from yellowing again.

Tips for Preventing Yellowing:

  • Store in a cool, dark place: Keep your SNES away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
  • Use a protective case or cover: Consider storing your console in a dust cover or a closed cabinet to protect it from UV light.
  • Regular Cleaning: Dust and clean your console regularly to prevent dirt buildup.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use regular hydrogen peroxide from the pharmacy?

Yes, but for faster and more effective results, use a hydrogen peroxide concentration of 12% or higher. Regular hydrogen peroxide (3%) may work but will take longer.

2. Is Retrobrighting permanent?

While Retrobrighting can significantly reduce yellowing, it’s not permanent. Over time, yellowing may return, especially if the console is exposed to heat and UV light.

3. Can I restore other electronics with Retrobrite?

Yes! Retrobright can be used to restore many old electronics and plastic items that have yellowed over time, including old computers, monitors, and other gaming consoles.

Conclusion

Restoring a yellowed Super Nintendo console is a rewarding project that can bring new life to your classic gaming system. By using the Retrobright method and taking proper care of your console, you can return your SNES to its original color and keep it looking great for years to come.

If you found this guide helpful, feel free to share your own restoration experiences or ask questions in the comments below. Happy gaming and good luck with your SNES restoration project!