Bleaching rubber shock boots

[Swede]

I wasn’t sure if this would work as all the YouTube videos show it being done on white plastic. I did one to be able to make a before and after comparison - quite pleased with the result.

I wrapped the boot in clingfilm with some 12% Hydrogen Peroxide paste (hair bleach). Tried a UV light but in the end I just put it in the sunshine for four days.

Just got to do the other one now…

 

[ishaw]

Where do you find this mythical sunshine?

 

[Swede]

Where do you find this mythical sunshine?

It's been a long time coming...

 

[bikeworkshop]

Hard to think the bleach won't degrade the plastic though - and UV is the frequent killer of clear plastic parts.
Post an update in 2026
- are they still ok?

 

[novocaine]

from the picture it looks an awful lot like it's made it bigger (this isn't a daft thing, it happens, honest)

the longevity for this is dependent on the type of material they are made from. I suspect it's not a natural rubber but a synthetic like TPU. it will degrade over time. I suspect all the bleach has really done is remove the grime and oil from the surface though.

they look better, not original perfect, but defo better.

 

[Swede]

The increase is size is mostly from me pulling it about when washing off the peroxide. So far I’ve not noticed any material change but I’ll bear your comments in mind.

 

[Tsundere]

Pleasing result. Always nice when you roll the dice and it works out.