Hydrogen Peroxide as a Disinfectant

Hydrogen peroxide, as most of us are aware of, is a weak acid. It is chemically denoted by H2O2, and is composed of water and hydrogen. This acid looks colorless when diluted with water, but actually is a slight blue. Use of this acid as a disinfectant comes from its highly oxidizing nature, which makes it readily reactive. And due to this property, H2O2 is also used as an effective antiseptic, and as a bleach. Let us know now how does this substance come in handy as an effective disinfectant for different household purposes.

How Does H2O2 Work As A Disinfectant?

When we use the word 'disinfectant', we refer to a substance that is able to destroy harmful microorganisms that are living and thriving on non-living surfaces of various settings. So the same goes with hydrogen peroxide, when it is also used as a disinfectant in places such as hospitals, clinics, for surgical tools, bathroom tiles, sinks, shower heads, door knobs, kitchen countertop, various fabrics, etc. The main benefit of using this acid is its lack of any harmful fumes or residues, which can affect people, especially children, the elderly and those with a compromised immune system.

So how does this acid work as an important disinfectant? As cited above, this acid is known for its strong oxidizing property. And this very property allows it to exhibit antimicrobial activity. When H2O2 is applied to any surface, it begins a quick reaction which releases free oxygen radicals. And this causes a free radical damage to the cells and tissues of the protective covering of bacteria thus, eliminating them and making the surface disinfected.

Directions for Use

Hydrogen peroxide of higher strength (30% - 35%) is usually used as a disinfectant, and is available in health store. Remember that this acid of such a strength can give rise to adverse side effects if consumed or if it comes in contact with the skin. Sometimes, it can be life-threatening too. So before using the product, ensure that you know how to dilute it and by how much. Once you have diluted the solution, soak a cloth in it and simply wipe the surfaces you intend to disinfect. And after 2 - 3 minutes, rinse the surface with a wet cloth. Take care that while you are using this acid, there are no children or pet around.

Other Uses

Besides being used as a disinfectant, hydrogen peroxide is also used for:

• Whitening laundry; simply pour a cup of it in the washer
• Whitening teeth; wet the bristles of the brush with it, and work on all the areas, especially those with tartar and plaque. For this, the strength of the acid should be no more than 3%
• Wax cleaning; pour three to four drops of it in one ear, and keep your head tilted to a side. It is better to lie on the bed and remain in this position for about 10 minutes. Thereafter, tilt your head on the other side and drain away the liquid. Repeat with the other ear
• Gardening; make a (1/1) solution of the acid and water, and fill it in a spray bottle, and mist the plants with it
• Water purification; the acid's oxidizing property lets it to be effective water purifier
• Homemade sanitizer; a 50/50 solution of the acid and water is no less effective than an expensive commercial sanitizer

So this is how you can use hydrogen peroxide for disinfecting various surfaces, and for other household purposes. In this way you can avoid burning hole in your pockets by going for pricey commercial products on the market.