Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen Peroxide is a chemical compound consisting of water and an additional oxygen atom. It is a powerful oxidising agent widely used in cleaning, disinfecting, and sanitising. Due to its antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties, it is an effective alternative to harsh chemical cleaners.

Hydrogen Peroxide

Storage: Store in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight or heat to prevent it from breaking down. Hydrogen Peroxide can decompose over time, especially when exposed to light.
Shelf life: Typically 1-3 years when stored properly in a dark container. Once opened, it should be used within a few months for best efficacy.

Hydrogen Peroxide is refined for purity and is available in various concentrations, commonly 3% for household cleaning and up to 35% for industrial use.

Hydrogen peroxide isn’t strictly necessary for cleaning, but it’s a useful and effective option, depending on what you’re cleaning. It acts as a natural disinfectant, deodoriser, and stain remover, making it a great non-toxic alternative to harsh chemicals like bleach.

Clear, colourless liquid with a slightly thin and watery texture.

Has a mild, sharp, slightly metallic odour, which is often barely noticeable when diluted.

Disinfectant: Kills germs on surfaces, making it effective for sanitising kitchens and bathrooms.
Stain Removal: Removes tough stains from fabrics, carpets, and tiles.
Deodorising: Neutralises odours, especially from mould and mildew.
Mold & Mildew Control: Helps clean and prevent mould growth in damp areas.
Food-Safe Cleaner: Can be used to clean fruits, vegetables, and food preparation areas when properly diluted.

The pH of hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) depends on its concentration:

• 6% to 10% (hair bleach and stronger solutions) → pH around 3.5 to 4.5
• 3% (household hydrogen peroxide) → pH around 4.5 to 6 (slightly acidic)
• 30% (industrial strength) → pH around 3 (more acidic)
• Pure hydrogen peroxide (100%) → very unstable but pH is close to 0

Even though it’s slightly acidic, hydrogen peroxide is a strong oxidizer, making it effective for disinfection, bleaching, and cleaning.

3% solution: General household cleaning and disinfecting.
5-6% solution: Stronger stain removal and mould treatment.
10-35% solution: Industrial-strength applications (use with caution).

Clear, colourless liquid, typically packaged in dark containers to protect it from light.

✅ Highly effective disinfectant without harmful residues.
✅ Breaks down safely into water and oxygen, making it eco-friendly.
✅ Removes stains naturally, including blood, wine, and mildew.
✅ Affordable and widely available.

❌ Can cause skin irritation at high concentrations.
❌ Decomposes over time if exposed to light and heat.
❌ May bleach fabric and surfaces if not diluted properly.
❌ Less stable than other disinfectants like bleach.

If you need similar cleaning properties, consider:
White Vinegar: Natural disinfectant and deodoriser.
Baking Soda: Abrasive cleaner and odour neutraliser.
Lemon Juice: Mildly acidic for stain removal and freshness.
Isopropyl Alcohol (Rubbing Alcohol): Strong disinfectant for surfaces.

• Always dilute to the appropriate concentration for cleaning tasks.
• Test on a small area before using on delicate surfaces like fabrics or wood.
• Use in a spray bottle for easy application on surfaces.
• Combine with baking soda for a powerful scrubbing paste.
• Avoid mixing with vinegar or bleach, as this can create harmful reactions.

💡 For kitchen cleaning, mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water for an all-purpose spray.
💡 To remove mould and mildew, spray undiluted 3% hydrogen peroxide directly on affected areas and let sit before scrubbing.
💡 For laundry stain removal, apply a small amount directly to stains before washing.
💡 To disinfect cutting boards, wipe with hydrogen peroxide and let sit before rinsing.
💡 To clean grout and tiles, apply and let bubble for a few minutes before scrubbing.

250-500ml (8.5-17 fl oz), depending on cleaning needs.