In simple terms, Hydrogen Peroxide consists of two hydrogen atoms and two oxygen atoms, as shown in the chemical formula H²O². Hydrogen Peroxide is very similar to water (H²O), but the extra oxygen atom produces one of the most useful and powerful oxidizers known to man— Hydrogen Peroxide (oxygen-rich water).
Often associated with hair bleaching or teeth whitening Hydrogen Peroxide has a wide range of uses. A truly multi-purpose disinfectant, Hydrogen Peroxide kills germs and bacteria. When used as a disinfectant, Hydrogen Peroxide very quickly breaks down into water, releasing the extra oxygen atom, which then creates oxidization – if bacteria are present, fizzing can be seen. It is also used as a disinfectant in food production as it meets the requirements that the Food Chemical Codex indicates and is suitable for all food, beverage and nutritional supplement applications.
Some uses for Hydrogen Peroxide:
Plant care: Add 3ml of 3% food grade Hydrogen Peroxide to 1 litre of water (2½ tsp per gallon). When starting out, use a lower concentration and after a few weeks increase to the higher concentration listed above.
Laundry: Use 330ml of 3% food grade Hydrogen Peroxide with your washing instead of chemical bleaches. Not on colours.
Cleaning/Sanitizing/Disinfectant: In the kitchen use 3% food grade Hydrogen Peroxide in a spray bottle. Used on surfaces and work tops, it leaves a fresh smell and the surface bacteria free. In the bathroom use half 3% solution and half distilled water in a spray bottle. This does not inhibit processes in the septic tank (unlike other household bleaches).
Food Sterilization: Soak your fruit and vegetables in a washing bowl filled with water and 45ml of 3% food grade Hydrogen Peroxide. Depending on the size, soak for 20-30 minutes, then rinse, drain, dry and leave in the fridge. It has been noted that doing this will prolong the life of fruit and vegetables.
Removing Earwax: Tilt your head to one side, use an eye dropper bottle to dispense 3% Hydrogen Peroxide so it fills the ear canal (do not do this if ear drum is damaged). Very quickly you should notice a bubbling in the ear. If the bubbling reduces after five minutes, repeat the process until the bubbling stops completely. Now repeat on the other ear. Make sure you keep a towel close by to wipe up any residue. For occasional use only.
Nasal Spray: Mix 1 tablespoon of 3% Hydrogen Peroxide with 220ml of distilled water for use with a nasal spray. Use 2-3 squirts throughout the day when you start experiencing signs of congestion.
Mouthwash: Simply use 3% food grade Hydrogen Peroxide.
There are different grades of Hydrogen Peroxide.
• 3% Pharmaceutical Grade — available for purchase at most high street chemist’s; used for cleaning wounds and as a general household disinfectant. This grade of Hydrogen Peroxide can contain a whole range of stabilizers, such as acetanilide, phenol, sodium stanate and tetrasodium phosphate.
• 6% Beautician Grade —used as hair colorant; also contains stabilizers.
• 12% Food Grade <insert link> — diluted from 35% Food Grade to comply with EU regulations
• 30% Reagent Grade — used in scientific experiments; also contains stabilizers.
• 30% to 35% Electronic Grade — used to clean electronic equipment.
• 35% Technical Grade — contains phosphorus to neutralize tap water (if added)
• 35% Food Grade — this is used in many food preparation processes, for instance, in aseptic packaging, where it is sprayed onto foil lined material used for packaging fruit juices, etc.