The Ultimate Guide to Cleaning with Hydrogen Peroxide: Uses, Tips, and Precautions

spray bottle hydrogen peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is a versatile cleaning agent that has been used for decades in various households and industrial settings. 

Its main ingredient, hydrogen peroxide, is a powerful oxidizer that can effectively kill bacteria and viruses, remove stains, and whiten clothes and surfaces. 

In this article, we’ll take a detailed look at the many cleaning purposes and uses of hydrogen peroxide, as well as some things that you shouldn’t clean with it.

Let’s get started.

Cleaning Uses of Hydrogen Peroxide

Disinfecting surfaces: One of the most popular uses of hydrogen peroxide is as a surface disinfectant. It can effectively kill a wide range of bacteria and viruses, including E. coli, salmonella, and the flu virus. To use it as a disinfectant, simply mix 3% hydrogen peroxide with water in a spray bottle and apply it to surfaces that need to be cleaned.

Whitening clothes: Another popular use of hydrogen peroxide is as a whitening agent for clothes. To use it for this purpose, add a cup of hydrogen peroxide to your laundry load along with your usual detergent. The hydrogen peroxide will help to remove stains and brighten your clothes, leaving them looking fresh and new.

Removing stains: Hydrogen peroxide is also great for removing tough stains from various surfaces. To remove stains from carpet or upholstery, mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water in a spray bottle and apply it directly to the stain. Allow it to sit for a few minutes before blotting it up with a clean cloth.

Cleaning grout and tile: If you’re looking to clean grout and tile in your bathroom or kitchen, hydrogen peroxide can be a great option. Mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide and baking soda to form a paste, and then apply it to the grout and tile. Scrub the area with a brush and then wipe it clean.

Cleaning cutting boards: Cutting boards can harbor bacteria and other harmful microorganisms if they’re not cleaned properly. Hydrogen peroxide can be used to effectively clean and sanitize your cutting boards. Simply spray the cutting board with hydrogen peroxide and let it sit for a few minutes before wiping it clean.

Cleaning brushes: Brushes can also harbor bacteria and other germs, so it’s important to clean them regularly. Hydrogen peroxide can be used to effectively clean and sanitize your brushes. Simply soak your toothbrush in hydrogen peroxide for a few minutes before rinsing it with water.

Cleaning and whitening nails: For those who want to whiten and brighten their nails, hydrogen peroxide can be a great option. Mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide and baking soda to form a paste, and then apply it to your nails. Scrub your nails with the paste and then rinse them with water.

Cleaning ears: Hydrogen peroxide can also be used to clean ears. It is an effective way to soften and remove earwax. Fill an eyedropper with equal parts water and hydrogen peroxide, lie down, and put a few drops in your ear. Keep your head tilted for 5 minutes and then drain out the earwax.

Cleaning fruits and vegetables: Hydrogen peroxide can also be used to clean fruits and vegetables, as it can effectively remove dirt, bacteria, and pesticides. Simply mix a solution of 1 part hydrogen peroxide to 3 parts water in a spray bottle and spray it on your fruits and vegetables. Let them sit for a few minutes before rinsing them off with water.

Killing mold: Mold can be a difficult problem to solve, especially in damp areas such as bathrooms and basements. Hydrogen peroxide can be effective in killing mold and preventing it from coming back. Mix a solution of 1 part hydrogen peroxide to 3 parts water in a spray bottle and spray it directly on the mold. Let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing it off and wiping the area clean. Keep in mind that it’s best to wear gloves and a mask when dealing with mold, as it can be harmful if inhaled.

What Concentration of Hydrogen Peroxide is Best for Cleaning?

When using hydrogen peroxide for cleaning, it’s important to use the right concentration. The most commonly used concentration for cleaning is 3%, which is safe for most household cleaning purposes. This concentration is easily available in most drugstores and supermarkets. 

When using hydrogen peroxide for cleaning, you can also dilute it with water to make it less concentrated, depending on the cleaning task, for example, for cleaning fruits and vegetables, you can use a 1:3 ratio of hydrogen peroxide and water. 

It’s also important to note that higher concentrations of hydrogen peroxide, such as 35%, should be handled with caution and should not be used for household cleaning. These higher concentrations can be dangerous and can cause irritation or burns if not handled properly.

It’s always best to read the label and follow the instructions of the hydrogen peroxide product you are using and if in doubt, test it in a small inconspicuous area before using it on a larger scale.

Things you shouldn’t clean with hydrogen peroxide: 

While hydrogen peroxide is a powerful cleaning agent, there are certain things that you shouldn’t use it on. 

For example, hydrogen peroxide can bleach or discolor certain materials, such as fabrics and hair. It can also damage certain surfaces, such as wood and metal. 

Therefore, it’s important to test hydrogen peroxide on an inconspicuous area before using it on a larger scale. Additionally, hydrogen peroxide should not be used on open wounds or in the eyes, as it can cause irritation and damage.

Conclusion: 

In conclusion, hydrogen peroxide is a versatile and powerful cleaning agent that can be used for a wide range of cleaning purposes. From disinfecting surfaces and whitening clothes to removing stains and cleaning grout and tile, hydrogen peroxide can be a great addition to your cleaning arsenal. 

However, it’s important to remember that hydrogen peroxide should not be used on certain materials or surfaces, and should be used with caution on the body. With proper usage, hydrogen peroxide can be a safe and effective way to keep your home and belongings clean and fresh.

If you’re looking for more natural cleaners? Try baking soda. Read 10 Spots That Will Benefit from a Box of Baking Soda.  

 to learn more.

Thanks for reading!

-Baking Soda Guy

Image by Mimzy from Pixabay