Protecting Your iPod - Skins and Things

Everyone wants to keep their iPod looking as good as new, but this can be difficult sometimes, especially since the product seems to attract scratches.

Vinyl cases

You can buy a case to cover your iPod. The advantages of a vinyl case are that they protect your iPod well, and are available in a variety of colors and materials. Disadvantages are that they usually cover the screen, can be bulky and inconvenient, and hide the sleek design of the iPod.

iPod socks

The Apple store offers trendy socks that are fitted to the iPod, in a set of six different colors. To use, simply slide the iPod into the sock - simple protection! One of the drawbacks to using a sock is that you will have to slide your iPod in and out of the sock whenever you need to use the click wheel. The iPod sock is compatible with all iPod models except the iPod shuffle.

Nano tubes

Also available from the iPod store are iPod nano Tubes, designed specifically for the iPod nano and coming in a set of five colors. Tubes are made from silicone and are resistant to dirt and stains. There is clear cover for the display screen which allows the user to access the click wheel and hold button.

iPod skins

You can also buy an iPod skin, designed specifically for the iPod Nano, to protect it iPod during athletic activities such as running or exercising. These are available for purchase from www.iSkin.com and elsewhere. iSkin offers iSkin slims and iSkin DuoBand, both as exercise companions. Both have a polycarbonate layer that allows the user to view the iPod's screen and access the click wheel to adjust volume or change songs. 

iPod shields or films

You can also buy a "shield" or "film" product, which cover the scratchable surface of the iPod with a clear film that keeps the body from getting scratched. Since these products are clear, you can still keep the look of the iPod. There are several options available:

• The first is invisibleSHIELD. This is a clear cover that is made from a material that is also used to protect helicopter blades. The film is cut perfectly to cover everything except the corners of the iPod. The cover uses an adhesive to stick to the iPod and claims not to leave a residue. Screen protectors and click wheel covers are available if you do not wish to cover the entire iPod. 
• Power Support offers two film covers – one for the iPod Nano and one for the 5G iPod. Both films are made from a more rigid material. Some users claim this film is more durable than the soft flexible films. The Power Support film does not leave a sticky residue because it uses a static cling to adhere to the product. The sets include three pieces: a film for the front of the iPod (excluding the click wheel), a film for the back cover, and a cover for the click wheel. The film set does not cover the sides so that there are no hanging edges that could eventually peel. 

Both the invisibleSHIELD and the Power Support Film Sets are thin enough that a case can still be used if desired.

Handmade iPod pouches

We have seen handmade "pouches" for iPods of all descriptions - from crochet to felt to quilted! Most look similar to glasses cases and are hung round the next or over the shoulder by a cord. These are especially fun for kids, who can make and accessorise with their outfits easily.

How to remove scratches from your iPod