Cleaning products should be selected for the surface and task. Read the label and handling requirements before use.
Some formulated cleaning products contain hydrogen peroxide. Their suitability depends on the surface, concentration, and product instructions; peroxide is not universally gentler or safer than other cleaners.
What Is Peroxide?
Hydrogen peroxide is an oxidizing chemical used in industrial processes and some formulated cleaning products. This article discusses nonmedical surface care and handling considerations.
Cleaning performance depends on the finished product, surface, and label instructions. A general chemical description does not establish a product’s disinfectant claims or suitability for a particular facility.
Peroxide is a Very Versatile Cleaner
Choose a finished cleaning product labeled for the surface and task. Follow its preparation, application, contact-time, and rinsing instructions.
Hydrogen peroxide remains an oxidizing chemical with exposure hazards. Choose a labeled product suited to the task and follow its handling instructions.
Some of the surfaces you can clean with peroxide include:
- Appliances
- Countertops
- Floors
- Walls
- Mirrors
- Carpets
- Glass
Handling Precautions
Follow the product label and concentration-specific Safety Data Sheet (SDS). Avoid ingestion, inhalation, and contact with skin or eyes; use the protective equipment and handling controls specified for the product. Do not mix peroxide with vinegar, bleach, or other cleaners. Decomposition into water and oxygen does not make peroxide non-toxic or harmless.
Household Cleaning Tips Using Peroxide
There are so many different uses for peroxide, and the benefits and features of this multipurpose chemical are endless. We’ve put together some of the top tips and tricks to help you get the most out of the cleaning power of this magic liquid.
Removing Stains
Use a finished stain-removal product suitable for the fabric or surface. Follow its label and compatibility-test instructions. Do not make a homemade peroxide mixture with detergent, baking soda, or other chemicals.
A Clean Bleach Substitute
Hydrogen peroxide can be used in the place of bleach. To whiten and brighten fabrics, add a cup to your whitewash load. It’s gentler on your clothes than chlorine bleach.
We recommend that you allow laundry to soak for about 20 minutes before starting the washing machine to get the best results. Since it’s also anti-fungal, it removes the musty smell from bath towels and bedding.
Cleaning Bathroom Surfaces
Follow the surface manufacturer’s care instructions for fixtures, tile, grout, and glass. Select a labeled cleaner and follow its application, contact-time, rinsing, and drying requirements. Do not combine cleaning products.
Cleaning Kitchen Equipment
For appliances, cookware, and food-contact surfaces, use the manufacturer’s recommended method and a product labeled for the application. Complete all required rinsing steps. Do not make peroxide mixtures with vinegar, lemon, detergent, or baking soda.
Nonmedical Product Selection
Keep peroxide use limited to the application specified by the product label. Do not infer a personal-care or medical use from its role in surface cleaning.
Personal Items and Equipment
Follow the item manufacturer’s care instructions. Do not infer a medical, dental, or personal-care cleaning method from this general article.
Appliance Care
Follow the appliance manufacturer’s cleaning instructions. Do not run humidifiers or similar equipment with peroxide in the reservoir unless the manufacturer explicitly specifies the process. Complete required rinsing and drying before reuse.
Fabric and Bedding Care
Follow the textile care label and use an appropriate finished product. Do not apply peroxide to bedding as an improvised pest treatment.
Select and Handle Products Carefully
Follow the cleaning product’s label, the surface manufacturer’s instructions, and the concentration-specific SDS. Keep children and pets away during cleaning and store chemicals out of their reach. Do not use bulk peroxide as a medical or veterinary treatment.