Solve your toughest cleaning problems, from dirty grout to rusty tools, with the help of hydrogen peroxide. This inexpensive and versatile solution has powerful antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and bleaching properties. It can be used to clean a variety of surfaces and items in your home. Here are some important tips for using hydrogen peroxide safely:
- Use the correct concentration for the task at hand. Most household uses call for a 3-percent solution.
- Store hydrogen peroxide in a cool, dark place, away from sunlight and heat sources.
- Rinse the area thoroughly after using hydrogen peroxide to remove any residue.
- Take safety precautions by working in a ventilated area, wearing gloves, and rinsing your hands after use.
Now, let’s explore some of the amazing uses for hydrogen peroxide:
De-gunk tile and grout
To clean tile and grout, create a homemade cleaner by mixing ½ cup of baking soda, ¼ cup of hydrogen peroxide, and a teaspoon of liquid dish soap. Apply the mixture to the surface, let it sit for 5 minutes, then rinse clean with water.
Freshen up your mattress
To clean and freshen your mattress, create a solution of one part hydrogen peroxide to one part water. Spray the solution onto stains, let it sit for 5 minutes, then blot with a clean cloth. Use a hair dryer to dry excess moisture before making the bed.
Clean the bathtub without harsh chemicals
To clean your bathtub without harsh chemicals, make a paste of 2 parts baking soda to 1 part hydrogen peroxide. Apply the paste to the tub and shower area, wait for 30 minutes, then rinse. Follow with a solution of half vinegar and half water to dissolve any residue and soap scum.
Refinish metal hardware
To give metal hardware an antique look, spray white vinegar onto the surface and wait 5 minutes. Then, mix 2 cups of hydrogen peroxide, 4 tablespoons of white vinegar, and 1½ teaspoons of table salt in a spray bottle. Soak the metal surface with the mixture and rust should start forming immediately. Work in a well-ventilated area.
Get rid of rust
To remove rust from tools and other items, create a paste by mixing equal parts cream of tartar and baking soda with a few drops of hydrogen peroxide. Rub the paste onto the rusty objects, wait an hour, then wash with water.
Sanitize cutting boards
To clean and disinfect wood cutting boards, spray them with white vinegar, wait 5 minutes, then wipe them down. Next, pour hydrogen peroxide over the surface and distribute it evenly with a sponge or paper towel. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes, then wipe with a damp cloth and air dry.
Banish toilet bowl germs
To keep your toilet clean and germ-free, pour ½ cup of hydrogen peroxide into the bowl, let it sit for 30 minutes, then scrub with a toilet brush. To freshen the brush, pour extra hydrogen peroxide onto the bristles and allow it to air dry.
Help protect plants from root rot
To prevent root rot in plants, mix 1 tablespoon of hydrogen peroxide with 1 cup of water and soak the soil after it has dried. Make sure the soil dries completely before applying the solution again.
Reduce pests on houseplants
To reduce pests on houseplants, mix ½ cup of hydrogen peroxide with 1 gallon of water in a spray bottle. Spray the foliage, making sure to soak both the tops and undersides of leaves. Spray the top layer of soil to help reduce fungus gnats.
Wipe away water marks on granite
To remove water marks from granite countertops, create a paste of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. Apply the paste to the stain, let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes, then wipe clean with a damp cloth. For tougher stains, cover the paste with plastic wrap, let it sit overnight, then wash and dry.
Remove stains from marble
To remove stains from marble countertops, mix hydrogen peroxide with ammonia and spray it onto the stain. Let it sit for a minute or two, then wipe clean with a towel or chamois. Rinse well with water and dry with a clean towel.
Get rid of skunk stink
To remove skunk odor from clothing, soak the stained items in a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and water. Rinse thoroughly and launder as usual. To remove skunk odor from yourself or your pet, mix hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and dishwashing detergent. Rub the mixture onto the affected areas, avoiding eyes and sensitive areas. Rinse with clean water.
Freshen up lawn furniture
To clean outdoor furniture, mix warm water, hydrogen peroxide, dish soap, and borax. Spray the solution onto the furniture, let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes, then scrub and rinse.
Polish mirrors
To clean mirrors without streaks, spray undiluted hydrogen peroxide onto the surface and wipe with a paper towel or lint-free cloth.
Disinfect the humidifier
To clean and disinfect a humidifier, fill it with a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and water. Let it sit for half an hour, then rinse with cold water.
Brighten dingy whites
To brighten white fabrics, add hydrogen peroxide to your washing machine along with water. It can also be used as a stain remover for protein-based or plant-based stains. Test a small area first to check for color-fastness.
Clean kids’ toys
To sanitize children’s toys, either spray them with undiluted hydrogen peroxide or soak them in a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and water.
Disinfect sponges
To disinfect sponges, soak them in a mixture of water and hydrogen peroxide for at least 10 minutes.
Clean garden pots and tools
To disinfect garden pots and tools, wash them with soap and water, then soak them in a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and water. Rinse and air dry.
Soak seeds to help them sprout
To help seeds sprout faster, soak them in a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and water for up to 24 hours. Rinse and plant as usual.
Wash produce
To remove germs and pesticides from fruits and vegetables, soak them in a mixture of water and hydrogen peroxide. Rinse thoroughly before storing.
Clean the dishwasher
To clean your dishwasher, pour hydrogen peroxide into the bottom and run a hot water cycle. You can also add hydrogen peroxide to a standard dishwasher load to boost disinfection.