Hydrogen Peroxide: How to Use It Properly
What Is Hydrogen Peroxide Good For? Found in a brown bottle, hydrogen peroxide is an antiseptic liquid that in the past was typically used to treat cuts or other skin wounds, and kill germs. However, peroxide is often used in non-medical situations, including for cleaning, disinfecting and stain removal. What is Hydrogen Peroxide? Hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) is essentially water (H₂O) with an extra oxygen molecule. This additional oxygen molecule gives hydrogen peroxide its powerful oxidizing properties, which enable it to kill germs and bleach porous surfaces like fabrics. For everyday household use, medical-grade hydrogen peroxide—which is 3% peroxide and 97% water—is strong enough and widely available. A more concentrated version, known as food-grade hydrogen peroxide, can have strengths up to 35%. Despite its name, "food-grade" peroxide is not intended for general cleaning or disinfecting and can be hazardous if inhaled or if it com...