Samsung · Waterproof Personal Electronics
Body Glove Tidal Waterproof Phone Case for Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra 5G
Skip until Body Glove discloses waterproof coating chemistry.
Body Glove tidal cases use waterproof treatments but do not disclose coating composition or PFAS status. Unverified coating raises concern for potential PFAS use in water barriers.
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Material
Rubber/TPE case with waterproof coating, unspecified
Brand disclosure
Brand is silent on PFAS
Lab data
No public lab test
Why this grade
Waterproof / stain-resistant treatment
water-repellent coating treatments have historically used PFAS.
Category baseline
other is a category where PFAS exposure is more common.
No PFAS disclosure
No public statement about PFAS in this product.
The full breakdown
What it's made of and why it matters
This case combines rubber or TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) as the base with an unspecified waterproof coating applied to seal seams and surfaces. TPE itself is generally stable and low-toxicity, but the waterproof layer is the weak point: manufacturers rarely disclose whether it contains PFAS (PFAS "forever chemicals"), which are extremely persistent water- and grease-repellents commonly used in such applications. The coating chemistry directly affects whether leachables or degradation byproducts migrate into contact with skin or seep into the environment.
The brand's record and disclosure
Body Glove has not publicly disclosed the chemical composition of its waterproof coatings or stated a position on PFAS avoidance. Samsung, as the parent brand context, has made some sustainability commitments but has not been prominent in third-party certification of phone accessory safety. Neither brand currently lists this product on a verified PFAS-free database or provides independent test reports on coating leachates. This silence is the primary red flag.
How it compares in its category
Waterproof phone cases as a category almost uniformly use either fluorinated polymers or undisclosed durable-water-repellent (water-repellent coating) coatings, making comparison difficult without manufacturer transparency. Some competitors (e.g., Lifeproof, OtterBox) publish material safety data sheets, though they rarely specify PFAS status. Body Glove's approach of providing no published detail places it in the lower-transparency tier of the market, where hazard assessment relies on inference rather than evidence.
If you buy it
Rinse the case with cool water after beach or saltwater exposure to minimize coating stress and leaching. Avoid prolonged direct heat (above 50°C/122°F) which can accelerate polymer degradation. Replace the case every 2-3 years or if seams show visible cracking, peeling, or discoloration, as deteriorating coatings are more likely to shed particles or leach additives. Store in a cool, dry place when not in use to extend the waterproof seal's integrity.
Beyond PFAS: other things we checked
Established hazard classes for this product type, assessed from public information. These never change the PFAS grade; a Likely flag caps the Verdict at “Buy with care.”
PFAS in waterproof coating
Waterproof coatings on TPE cases commonly contain fluorinated compounds (C6, C8, or newer alternatives) to repel water and oil. Body Glove's lack of disclosure means PFAS presence cannot be ruled out; independent testing would be required to confirm.
TPE plasticizer migration
TPE can contain phthalates or other plasticizers depending on formulation. No public reports of migration from Body Glove cases exist, but contact with skin over extended periods is a theoretical pathway if low-grade materials are used.
Coating degradation and microparticle shedding
As the waterproof layer ages, flexing and UV exposure cause cracking and peeling. Shed microparticles from the coating are then in direct contact with hands, phone screen, and potentially ingested if hands touch lips or food.
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) off-gassing
New TPE and applied coatings may emit low levels of VOCs during initial use or if heated. No established complaints for this product, but enclosed phone cases in warm conditions can concentrate vapor.
Contact allergen from additives in TPE or coating
TPE can be formulated with accelerators and antioxidants that may trigger contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals; the coating may contain additional chemical additives. Body Glove provides no ingredient list to assess risk.
What we don’t know
This grade is a model-based estimate from public materials, coatings, and brand disclosure at 45% confidence. It is not a lab result.
No independent PFAS lab test is on record for this exact product. A lab test could move the score in either direction.
The brand has not made a specific, verifiable PFAS-free statement, so part of this score reflects that missing disclosure rather than a confirmed material.
Formulations and coatings change between production runs. Always check the current label before buying.
Safer alternatives in Waterproof Personal Electronics
Pelican
M40 Micro Case
Polypropylene copolymer plastic case with solid construction, no Teflon-family coating
Lower PFAS concern. Rigid PP case with no waterproofing treatment.
✓Naturally PFAS-free material
Urban Armor Gear (UAG)
Pathfinder MagSafe Case for iPhone
Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and metal alloy components
Lower concern. TPU phone case has minimal PFAS risk profile.
⚠Brand says nothing about PFAS
Urban Armor Gear (UAG)
Pathfinder Case for Galaxy
TPU polymer, impact-resistant composite
Lower concern, but no PFAS transparency from UAG.
⚠Brand says nothing about PFAS
More waterproof personal electronics 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.