12 uses for hydrogen peroxide that you may not know about yet
Hydrogen peroxide is known for its antimicrobial and antiseptic properties, and which makes it very useful in first aid kits for the treatment of superficial skin wounds, for example. The usefulness of this product - readily available in shops and pharmacies - does not end there. In fact, its properties make it an economical and very effective alternative for many commercial chemical cleaners commonly found in our homes.
In fact, hydrogen peroxide is also used in cosmetic treatments, being effective in eliminating skin blemishes, ensuring good oral hygiene and neutralizing bad breath. But we can also use it for household cleaning.
Let's discover together 12 alternative uses for this cheap and extremely versatile product:
1. Laundry whitener
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If you have white garments that need brightening, you can replace bleach with hydrogen peroxide: insert it directly into the washing machine as you would the bleach. The results will be better, you will avoid damaging the fabrics and you will pollute less. Hydrogen peroxide is also an excellent stain remover for protein or vegetable stains; just apply it to the affected area and leave it to act for 10 minutes before proceeding with a regular wash.
2. Tiles and grout
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To remove dirt and mold from tiles and grout - especially in the shower and bathtub - you can use a solution composed of 2 parts baking soda and one part hydrogen peroxide. Your tiles and grout will be squeaky clean in no time.
3. Sanitizer for sponges
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Sponges are well-known to be the dirtiest objects in the home and, although they are used for cleaning chores, they are often a source of germs and mold. To ensure they are sanitized and last longer, you can immerse them, after use, in a solution of equal parts of water and hydrogen peroxide for at least 10 minutes.
4. Removing rust
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Even rust can be easily removed using hydrogen peroxide: just make a paste by mixing the sodium bicarbonate with a few drops of hydrogen peroxide and apply it onto the rusted object, leaving it to act for at least an hour. Then rinse off by rubbing with a sponge and running water. Try it on work tools, toys and on the tub and faucets: you'll be surprised by the results!
5. Cleaning mirrors
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For clean, streak-free mirrors, the alternative to products on the market is hydrogen peroxide: spray it in pure form on the mirror and dry off with a paper towel or microfiber cloth.
6. Cleaning the mattress
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For a peaceful (and hygienic) sleep, it is important to remember to clean the mattress at regular intervals. To do this, remove the sheets and mattress covers and vacuum the mattress before trying to remove any stains. To tackle the stains, prepare a solution of equal parts of water and hydrogen peroxide, applying it to the stains with an old, soft toothbrush. Let the solution act for 5 minutes and, if necessary, repeat the operation until the stain is completely gone. Be sure to remove any moisture by blow-drying wet spots before making the bed.
7. Cleaning patio furniture
Hydrogen peroxide is also perfect for cleaning plastic or metal garden furniture. Mixed with water and baking soda, it will make all your garden furniture look like new again.
8. Sanitized toilet
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To maintain hygiene in your toilet, pour hydrogen peroxide into it weekly and leave it to act for 30 minutes before scrubbing with a toilet brush. The toilet will be perfectly clean and sanitized without the use of aggressive chemical cleaners.
9. Removing water stains from granite
To easily remove annoying water stains from granite surfaces, add a few drops of hydrogen peroxide to half a cup of baking soda and spread this paste on the surface to be treated. After 5-10 minutes, remove the paste with a damp cloth or soft sponge and the stains will have vanished.
10. Sanitizing the humidifier
The use of humidifiers brings significant benefits for our respiratory system, but if not cleaned regularly, they can accumulate dirt, mold and germs. To properly sanitize them, simply fill the machine with one part hydrogen peroxide and 4 parts water, leave it to act for 30 minutes, then rinse and dry off.
11. Cleaning children's toys
Like everything else in the house, children's toys also accumulate germs and dirt. Sanitize them perfectly by spraying hydrogen peroxide directly onto the toys, or by preparing a mixture of equal parts water and hydrogen peroxide and immersing all the toys in this mix.
12. Vintage metallic finishes
Finally, we suggest a possible use for DIY lovers. If you want to create a vintage patina on iron or iron alloy objects, you can create rust in minutes with the help of a few ingredients. Mix 500 ml of hydrogen peroxide, 4 tablespoons of white vinegar and 1 and a half tablespoons of table salt and immerse the object to be rusted - after spraying it with white vinegar -in the mix for 5 minutes. Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid breathing the fumes of the reaction and you will see that rust appears in a just a few moments.
Did you already know about any of these alternative uses for hydrogen peroxide?
