Hydrogen peroxide is a versatile household chemical known for its antiseptic properties, but its uses extend far beyond cleaning wounds. Here are 20 surprising and safe ways to use hydrogen peroxide, each backed by expert advice and practical tips.
Disinfecting Toothbrushes
The American Dental Association says toothbrushes can be exposed to fecal coliform and other bacteria in the bathroom. Soak your toothbrush in hydrogen peroxide to kill bacteria and germs; rinsing in hydrogen peroxide reduces the bacterial count by 85 percent. Simply pour a small amount into a cup and submerge the toothbrush bristles for about five minutes. This helps maintain oral hygiene by keeping your toothbrush germ-free.
Whitening Laundry
Add a cup of hydrogen peroxide to your laundry load to brighten and whiten clothes. It’s especially effective for removing stains and dinginess from white fabrics, making your whites brighter without the harsh effects of chlorine bleach.
Cleaning Glass and Mirrors
Mix hydrogen peroxide with water in a spray bottle to create an effective glass cleaner. Spray on glass surfaces and mirrors, then wipe away for a streak-free shine. This solution is non-toxic and leaves surfaces sparkling clean.
Sanitizing Cutting Boards
After washing your cutting board, spray it with hydrogen peroxide to kill any remaining bacteria. Renovator Bob Vila advises a 10-minute soak in 3 percent hydrogen peroxide to kill germs on wooden cutting boards. This is particularly useful for boards used to cut meat, as it helps prevent cross-contamination in your kitchen.
Mouthwash for Oral Hygiene
Dilute hydrogen peroxide with water and use it as a mouthwash to kill bacteria and help whiten teeth. Scientists found that a 5 percent hydrogen peroxide solution was as effective as a 25 percent solution at whitening teeth. Swish the solution in your mouth for about 30 seconds, then spit it out. This can help maintain oral health and freshen your breath.
Cleaning Refrigerators
Wipe the inside of your refrigerator with hydrogen peroxide to disinfect and deodorize. It effectively cleans without leaving harmful residues, ensuring your food storage area is hygienic and odor-free.
Gardening Fungicide
Mix hydrogen peroxide with water and spray it on plants to help control fungal infections. The oxygen released by hydrogen peroxide helps stop the growth of mold and mildew on plant leaves.
Acne Treatment
Dab hydrogen peroxide on pimples to help clear up acne. The antiseptic properties kill bacteria that cause acne, helping to clear your skin. However, use it sparingly to avoid drying out the skin.
Sanitizing Makeup Brushes
Soak makeup brushes in a solution of hydrogen peroxide to clean and disinfect them. This prevents bacteria buildup on your makeup tools, promoting better skin health and hygiene.
Refreshing Bath Mats
Spray bath mats with hydrogen peroxide to kill mold and mildew. This is especially useful in damp bathrooms, where these fungi tend to grow. Let the peroxide sit for a few minutes, then rinse with water.
Cleaning Humidifiers
Add a pint of hydrogen peroxide to one gallon of water and use it to clean your humidifier tank. This will help prevent mold and bacteria growth in the water, ensuring the air you breathe is healthier.
Deodorizing Shoes
Spray the inside of your shoes with hydrogen peroxide to kill odor-causing bacteria and fungus. This is a great way to freshen up gym shoes or any other footwear that tends to get smelly.
Disinfecting Sponges
Soak kitchen sponges in hydrogen peroxide to disinfect and clean them. This helps extend the life of your sponges while ensuring they are germ-free for washing dishes and surfaces.
Cleaning Pet Toys
Use hydrogen peroxide to disinfect and clean your pet’s toys. It’s safe for pets and ensures their toys aren’t harboring harmful bacteria or viruses.
Brightening Curtains
Spray diluted hydrogen peroxide on curtains to brighten them without the need for harsh chemical cleaners. This can help remove light stains and yellowing, especially on white or light-colored fabrics.
Sanitizing Children’s Toys
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), hydrogen peroxide kills yeasts, fungi, bacteria, viruses, and mold spores. Clean children’s toys with hydrogen peroxide to kill germs without using toxic chemicals. This ensures the toys are safe for children to handle and helps prevent the spread of illness.
Cleaning Grout
Apply a paste made from hydrogen peroxide and baking soda to grout lines to clean and whiten them. This mixture effectively removes grime and restores the look of tiled areas.
Disinfecting Computer Keyboards
Lightly spray a cloth with hydrogen peroxide and use it to wipe down your computer keyboard. This helps remove oils, grime, and germs that accumulate from regular use.
Removing Blood Stains
The Environmental Working Group recommends hydrogen peroxide as an effective way to remove grass, blood, and drink stains like fruit, juice, and wine. Apply hydrogen peroxide directly to fresh blood stains on fabrics. The bubbling action helps lift the stain from the material, making it easier to wash out.
Cleaning Window Sills and Door Frames
Wipe down window sills and door frames with a cloth dampened with hydrogen peroxide to remove dust and mold buildup. This not only cleans but also disinfects the areas, which are often overlooked during regular cleaning.
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