Case-Mate · Waterproof Personal Electronics Cases
Case Mate Waterproof Phone Case-Wavy Pink Sparkle
No coating described, and no PFAS statement from the brand.
The product information we reviewed describes tPU/rubber, with no water-repellent coating named. Water resistance on products like this usually comes from the material and its seals rather than a surface treatment. The brand has published no PFAS statement for it.
We flunk more products than we pass. This one earned its grade. How we grade
Material
TPU/rubber
Brand disclosure
Brand is silent on PFAS
Lab data
No public lab test
What’s concerning
Category baseline
The starting point for this type of product, before anything specific to this product is counted.
No PFAS disclosure
No public statement from the brand about PFAS in this product.
Microplastics
Extended UV exposure or repeated flexing may cause microscopic TPU fragments to shed, particularly where seams are stressed. Routine indoor use and replacement every 2-3 years minimizes this risk; visible cracking or stickiness indicates material breakdown.
Source, EPA ↗Mold or bacterial growth on sealed seams
Waterproof cases trap moisture in seams if water enters and is not fully dried. Periodic opening, air-drying, and inspection of seal integrity prevent microbial colonization; not a material chemistry hazard but a maintenance issue.
What’s reassuring
Base material not linked to PFAS
The main material recorded for this product is not one associated with PFAS.
Phthalates
TPU formulations in mainstream phone cases are not documented to use phthalate plasticizers; however, low-cost TPU blends from some manufacturers may contain trace phthalates. No specific testing or recalls for Case-Mate phone cases on this issue are on record.
Source, ATSDR ↗Colorant and sparkle additive safety
Mica, glitter particles, and organic dyes used in sparkle finishes are generally inert when embedded in TPU and do not leach into skin or device under normal contact. No hazard reports specific to Case-Mate's sparkle formulations have been published.
Metal accelerators or residues in manufacturing
TPU production may involve trace heavy-metal catalysts (tin, zinc), but finished TPU cases are not documented to leach these metals during normal phone contact. Case-Mate does not publicly disclose manufacturing controls for metal residues.
The full breakdown
What it's made of and why it matters
This case is constructed from TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) and rubber, materials chosen for flexibility and impact absorption rather than rigid plastics. TPU is a synthetic polymer that does not inherently leach BPA, phthalates, or other endocrine disruptors under normal use conditions. The 'sparkle' finish likely refers to embedded glitter or mica particles in the elastomer, not a chemical coating, so degradation of a protective layer is not a concern. No adhesives, enamels, or ceramic components are present in typical phone cases of this design.
The brand's record and disclosure
Case-Mate has not published a formal PFAS avoidance statement or material safety transparency report in publicly available sources. The brand has no widely documented recalls or safety controversies related to chemical leaching or off-gassing in its phone case lines. The PFAS-excellent grading reflects the absence of waterproofing coatings known to contain PFOA or similar compounds; waterproofing in TPU cases derives from the material itself and sealed seams, not a fluorinated treatment.
How it compares in its category
Silicone and TPU cases generally present fewer chemical risks than rigid polycarbonate cases with metal accents or adhesive-bonded glass protectors. Unlike gel cases prone to staining or PVC alternatives associated with phthalate leaching, TPU holds color well and avoids known plasticizer hazards. This product sits in the lower concern middle tier of phone case chemistry; premium alternatives with third-party material certifications or explicit non-toxic claims offer marginal additional assurance but at higher cost.
If you buy it
Clean the case occasionally with mild soap and water; avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, which can degrade TPU slightly over years of use. Do not leave the case in a hot car or near heat sources above 60C (140F), as TPU becomes softer at elevated temperatures and may lose structural integrity. Replace the case if seams separate, the material becomes sticky or discolored, or if cracks appear that compromise water protection. Store in a cool, dry place when not in use.
What we don’t know
- Basis
- Model estimate, 45% confidence, not a lab result
- Lab test
- None on record for this exact product
- Brand statement
- Case-Mate has made none
Formulations change between production runs, so check the current label. How we grade.
More waterproof personal electronics cases grades
How we score, every product runs through the same public 0-100 rubric based on materials, coatings, brand disclosure, lab findings, and recalls. See the full methodology → Spotted a mistake? Report an error.