Hydrogen peroxide is most known for its packaging and for its medical use. The brown bottle package is a familiar sight to almost everyone. Hydrogen peroxide is kept in a dark colored bottle to prevent light from weakening it. Even though it is most commonly used as a way to clean cuts, scrapes, and other minor wounds, there are a surprising number of alternative uses for hydrogen peroxide.
Unlike many chemicals, hydrogen peroxide doesn’t harm the environment. It even forms naturally, with some of it coming down every time it rains. Hydrogen peroxide even occurs naturally in our bodies. Of course, the hydrogen peroxide we buy in stores is a manufactured product, but it is made by mimicking a reaction that is a normal part of nature.
One of the best hydrogen peroxide uses is in the garden, as a fertilizer and plant spray. It can be used on sick plants, mixed with water and sprayed on, killing any fungus that might be harming the plant. Sprayed onto tree cuttings, it will keep them fresher longer. It can also help plants grow faster and healthier.
Hydrogen peroxide can be used in personal care for things other than scrapes. One of hydrogen peroxide’s uses is as a mouth wash. This can help treat bad breath, canker sores, and other problems in the mouth caused by bacteria. It also helps whiten teeth. Only use one capful of hydrogen peroxide, and don’t use it for long periods of time. Dentists warn that extended use could soften tooth enamel.
Acne can be treated with hydrogen peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide uses oxidation to clean bacteria. Germs are bubbled up and out of the skin. It works best with acne that has pus in it, cleaning the pimple out and allowing it to heal quicker. Dab peroxide onto the acne, leave it for a second, then wipe it back off. Leaving hydrogen peroxide on your face too long can damage your skin.
Use hydrogen peroxide to clean your personal care tools. Tweezers, combs, nail clippers, and other personal care products are a breeding ground for germs. Soaking them in hydrogen peroxide for a few minutes will kill these germs, and leave you with clean tools. Toothbrushes can also be soaked in peroxide to sanitize them.
There are many hydrogen peroxide uses in the kitchen. It can be sprayed on cutting boards after use to kill salmonella and other bacteria. It can also be sprayed on table tops and counters to kill germs and leave a fresh scent. It also works great as a disinfectant for sponges, buckets, and kitchen tools. Use it on fruits and vegetables to remove residues. Just be sure to rinse afterward.
Elsewhere in the home, hydrogen peroxide uses include brightening laundry and removing stains. Always dilute the peroxide before placing it directly on a stain, because peroxide can bleach clothes. It can also be used to remove and prevent mold growth. Hydrogen peroxide can clean toilets and carpets, too.
Hydrogen peroxide uses, besides for cuts and scrapes, are wide-reaching. There’s a lot you can do with it. It’s an anti-bacterial, anti-fungal product that is safe for the environment. In both personal and household care, 3% hydrogen peroxide is one of the best products for a multitude of tasks.