Samsung · Waterproof Personal Electronics Cases
Samsung Galaxy Note 10 Series Waterproof Phone Case
No coating described, and no PFAS statement from the brand.
The product information we reviewed describes tPU or silicone elastomer, 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 or silicone elastomer
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.
Phthalate plasticizers in TPU or silicone (if formulation undisclosed)
While modern TPU and silicone are typically phthalate-free, some budget formulations may use di-isononyl cyclohexane-1,2-dicarboxylate (DINCH) or other plasticizers. Samsung's material specification sheets do not detail this; assume best practice but no guarantee.
Volatile organic compound off-gassing during manufacturing or storage
New TPU cases may emit faint odors from residual solvents or curing agents for the first few days. Airing the case before extended skin contact can reduce exposure; this is not a sustained hazard once off-gassed.
Mold or bacterial growth in seals if not dried after water immersion
Any sealed waterproof case traps moisture if stored wet or not fully dried. Trapped water in gaskets can support microbial growth, posing a hygiene risk to hands and phone over time.
Softening or degradation of seals under sustained heat or UV
TPU and silicone naturally degrade when exposed to prolonged sunlight, high temperatures, or ozone. This reduces waterproofing performance over 1-2 years of typical outdoor use, not a chemical hazard but a durability issue.
What’s reassuring
Base material not linked to PFAS
The main material recorded for this product is not one associated with PFAS.
Heavy metals
No recalls or independent test results report heavy metal contamination in Samsung Galaxy Note 10 cases. TPU and silicone colorants are typically organic, but Samsung does not publish pigment sourcing or testing.
Source, FDA ↗The full breakdown
What it's made of and why it matters
This case is constructed from TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) or silicone elastomer, both synthetic rubbers chosen for flexibility, shock absorption, and water resistance. TPU and silicone are inert at room temperature and do not leach plasticizers like older PVC cases. The waterproofing derives from the material's inherent elasticity and sealed seams or gaskets, not from chemical coatings, which reduces leaching risk. Both materials are stable under normal phone-use conditions and do not off-gas volatile organic compounds in meaningful amounts at typical body-contact temperatures.
The brand's record and disclosure
Samsung has not issued a public statement on PFAS use in phone accessories. No major recalls or chemical disclosures specific to this case series are on record. Samsung's broader product safety record is standard for consumer electronics manufacturers, with typical compliance to regional chemical regulations (REACH, RoHS). The silence on PFAS in elastomer accessories is common industry-wide, as most phone cases rely on material properties rather than fluorinated water-repellent coatings.
How it compares in its category
Waterproof phone cases typically use TPU, silicone, or neoprene. This Samsung case sits in the mainstream option, TPU and silicone are not linked to phthalates or cadmium stabilizers, while older vinyl or PVC cases may contain these substances. No brand in this category routinely discloses PFAS testing, making direct comparison difficult. Comparable third-party cases (Spigen, OtterBox, Lifeproof) share the same material base and carry similar hazard profiles.
If you buy it
Rinse the case with fresh water after saltwater or chlorinated pool exposure to prevent mineral buildup in seams and gaskets, which can degrade the seal over time. Avoid prolonged contact with direct sunlight or extreme heat (above 50°C), as TPU and silicone can soften and lose water resistance. Replace the case if seals crack, gaskets separate, or the material becomes sticky or discolored, as these indicate degradation. Store in a cool, dry place and do not leave sealed in direct heat, which accelerates elastomer aging.
What we don’t know
- Basis
- Model estimate, 35% confidence, not a lab result
- Lab test
- None on record for this exact product
- Brand statement
- Samsung 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.