How to Take Off a Phone Case — The Right Way

Usually, you want your phone case to stay in place—after all, that’s where it’s needed most. But your phone case needs to come off when you clean it or want to update your look with the newest OtterBox collection. 

Depending on your case, removal could be easy, but some cases have several layers that need to be removed in a specific order. If you’re not careful, you might break the case or — even worse — your phone.

Not All Cases Are the Same: The Many Types of Cases

From colors and materials to additional functions, phone cases are as unique as the phones they protect and the people who carry them. The steps involved in taking off a phone case may vary depending on the type. Most cases can be divided into soft, hard and wallet-style. 

Understanding Soft Cases

Soft cases are made from flexible materials, such as silicone, that offer additional protection and grip without adding to your phone’s bulk. They tend to be thinner and more flexible than other cases, giving you a sleek, minimalistic look without leaving your phone susceptible to tumbles and drops.

Removal Techniques

The following methods typically work well for removal. If you have a stubborn case that won’t come off, warm it with a blow-dryer on low in 20-second intervals. As the silicone warms, it should become more malleable.

Peeling Method: 

  1. Choose a corner away from the buttons and camera to start. 
  2. Pull the corner of your phone free from the case.
  3. Pull the case away from the phone along the edges until the phone is free.

Push-Through Method:

  1. Starting on the charging port end, grip your phone with your thumbs on the back. Use your fingers to hold the edge of the case along the front. 
  2. Gently apply pressure with your thumbs while pulling back on the edge. The phone should pop out.
  3. Slide the phone out of the rest of the case.

Delving Into Hard Cases

Typical hard cases, such as the OtterBox Frē Series, provide enhanced protection and durability with a built-in screen protector. Others, such as the OtterBox Defender Series, offer multiple layers requiring a few extra steps to remove.

Hard phone cases usually snap off using the corner method. However, you must be careful not to apply too much pressure to the plastic, as it can break. 

The corner removal method involves locating the small notch on the bottom corner of the case and using your fingernail or a thin object to lift the tab and separate each section of the case.

How to remove an OtterBox Defender Case

Although the Defender series is considered a hard protective phone case, it’s not your typical hard shell case.

The Defender comes in three sections. The flexible silicone outer shell and the two-part interlocking frame. To remove a Defender Series Case:

  1. First, you want to remove the outer silicone layer by peeling it away from the inner frame.
  2. Use the seam that runs around the entire edge of the screen to pry the outer layer off, starting at the bottom and working your way around.
  3. To remove the inner shell, a series of clips and notches hold the two pieces together along the edges. (On the backside, you’ll see arrows pointing to the tabs.)
  4. Starting with the side, unclip each of the latches and begin prying the two pieces apart.
  5. Work your way around the edges until the top layer comes apart. 
  6. Once all of the latches have been opened, the cover should come right off. (Be careful not to drop your phone, now that its no longer protected.)

The All-In-One Wallet Cases

Wallet cases, such as our Strada Series, have become more popular because of their convenience. All-in-one wallet cases are a great choice for those who want to carry their phone and wallet together, rather than fumbling with them separately.

Removal Technique

It's important to note that before removing the case, you should double-check to make sure that everything is out of your wallet before removal. 

Open and Slide

Book-style wallet cases have a compartment on one side for your phone. You just need to open the wallet flap, and your phone should slide right out.



Showcase Your Style With OtterBox

Taking off iPhone or Android cases is a breeze once you know what you’re doing. With OtterBox, the process is beyond simple. With our commitment to quality and our flair for individuality, we make a case for practically every need and to suit any style.

Check out our diverse range of phone cases and accessories to find your perfect fit today.