If you’ve got a stash of hydrogen peroxide at home, why not put it to work on some of these clever cleaning tasks? This multi-purpose wonder can bleach hair, sanitize surfaces, and even disinfect tools – making it a true all-rounder. I recently discovered that keeping your hydrogen peroxide in an opaque bottle or attaching a spray top directly to the bottle can help prevent degradation, extending its shelf life.
With this trusty aid at hand, you’re well-equipped to tackle a range of household tasks. We’ve gathered some surefire methods for getting the most out of your hydrogen peroxide. Feel free to share any of your own tried-and-true hacks in the comments.
Watch: 21 Brilliant Hydrogen Peroxide Hacks
If you’ve got a stash of hydrogen peroxide at home, why not put it to work on some of these clever cleaning tasks? This multi-purpose wonder can bleach hair, sanitize surfaces, and even disinfect tools – making it a true all-rounder. I recently discovered that keeping your hydrogen peroxide in an opaque bottle or attaching a spray top directly to the bottle can help prevent degradation, extending its shelf life.
With this trusty aid at hand, you’re well-equipped to tackle a range of household tasks. We’ve gathered some surefire methods for getting the most out of your hydrogen peroxide. Feel free to share any of your own tried-and-true hacks in the comments.
Clean and Disinfect a Kitchen Sink
When it comes to maintaining a spotless kitchen sink, one effective approach is to utilize the oxidizing properties of hydrogen peroxide. Simply spray the entire sink surface and allow it to sit for 10 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing. For an added layer of disinfection, combine equal parts of hydrogen peroxide and rubbing alcohol to create a leave-on spray that effectively kills germs.
As you begin preparing your next meal, be sure to give the area a thorough rinse to ensure a safe and healthy cooking environment for everyone involved.
Disinfect Toothbrushes
To extend the lifespan of your toothbrush, try soaking it in hydrogen peroxide. This simple trick is perfect for that middle ground where your toothbrush has lost its newness but isn’t quite ready for the trash. Simply place your toothbrush bristle side down in a cup filled with peroxide and let it sit for 15 minutes after the soak, thoroughly rinse the brush to remove any lingering peroxide. With this hack, you can give your trusty toothbrush a brand new lease on life.
Looking for more clever bathroom tips? Check out our collection of ways to banish a stinky bathroom and breathe some fresh air into your daily routine.
Use It as a Bleach
For those who’ve run out of bleach or simply prefer not to use it on their laundry, hydrogen peroxide offers a reliable and effective substitute. Simply replace one cup of bleach with an equal amount of peroxide in your washing machine to achieve similar results. The benefits of using peroxide as a bleach alternative are twofold: it’s a safer option for you and the environment, while still providing the same level of whitening power.
Keep the Shower Clean
To maintain a sparkling shower, combine ½ cup hydrogen peroxide and ½ cup rubbing alcohol in a spray bottle. Apply the solution after the final shower of the day to tackle soap residue and buildup. For an added boost, some individuals incorporate dishwashing detergent into their mixture; however, I’ve opted against it as this leave-on spray is intended for that purpose. If you decide to explore further, please do share your findings.
This simple hack has been touted to grant a few extra days between cleans, making the task less daunting. Look to elevate your bathroom’s cleanlininate game and see the difference it makes.
Clean the Garbage Can
The humble kitchen garbage bin can quickly become a breeding ground for bacteria and odors when subjected to raw scraps and cooked leftovers. To tackle this problem, consider using hydrogen peroxide as a natural sanitizing agent. Begin by thoroughly spraying every inch of the bin’s interior and exterior surfaces with the peroxide solution. Allow it to sit for approximately 15 minutes before rinsing, drying, and replacing the trash bag with a fresh one.
With this simple trick, you’ll be well on your way to a cleaner kitchen – and who knows, maybe even inspired to tackle some of our other easy cleaning hacks.
Remove Pesticides From Fruits and Vegetables
Consider substituting your usual produce cleaner with hydrogen peroxide, a versatile and effective sanitizing agent. To do so, fill a spray bottle with the peroxide and give your fruits or veggies a gentle misting. A smart approach is to gather any produce you plan on preparing and wash them all in one go. After spraying, allow the solution to sit for a brief moment to sanitize any unwanted bacteria or debris, then thoroughly rinse the produce.
Clean Jewelry
When it comes to cleaning jewelry, it’s essential to exercise caution before attempting to clean your piece. Familiarize yourself with its hardware material and any stones that may be present; this knowledge will help you determine the most suitable cleaning method for your jewelry. A gentle yet effective approach is to mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide and Windex in a bowl, allowing your jewelry to soak in this solution for approximately 15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
This combination helps effectively remove dirt and grime from your pieces.
Restore Old Baking Sheets
Baking sheets can rapidly deteriorate due to the accumulation of burnt food residue, oils, and other substances. However, there is a simple and effective way to restore them to their original state. To begin with, apply a layer of baking soda to the troubled surfaces, followed by hydrogen peroxide, and finally another layer of baking soda. Allow this solution to sit and soak for 20 minutes before rinsing off and washing regularly.
Sanitize Makeup Brushes
Are you experiencing skin issues after removing your makeup at night? The root cause might be surprisingly simple: dirty makeup brushes. To keep these pesky problems at bay, try a gentle yet effective cleaning solution of equal parts hydrogen peroxide, castile soap, and water. Let the mixture sit on your brushes for 10 minutes before thoroughly rinsing them off.
This technique not only prolongs the lifespan of your brushes but also helps prevent clogged pores, acne, and other skin concerns that can leave you feeling frustrated and self-conscious.
Clean Mirrors
For a streak-free shine, combine one part hydrogen peroxide with one part water to create an effective cleaning solution. Apply this mixture directly to the mirror’s troubled areas using a spray bottle. Then, use a clean microfiber cloth to wipe down the surface, effectively removing any dirt or grime. By employing these clever cleaning tricks, you’ll not only achieve a flawless finish but also streamline your cleaning routine.
Sanitize Cutting Boards
When it comes to kitchen utensils, bacteria and foodborne germs can easily accumulate, with cutting boards being a particularly notorious breeding ground. To combat this issue, start by spraying any cutting boards you want to disinfect with hydrogen peroxide at a concentration of 3% or less. Allow the solution to penetrate the board’s surface for a full ten minutes before rinsing and allowing it to air dry.
This process is especially important if you own a white plastic cutting board or one with a lighter color that has become stained over time. In these cases, simply spraying the board and letting it sit in direct sunlight for two hours can make a significant difference. Once the time has passed, rinse the board thoroughly and allow it to dry completely before putting it back into use.
Remove Stains From Clothing
Before attempting to remove the stains from your fabric, it’s essential to conduct a patch test on an inconspicuous area first. To create the cleaning solution, combine equal parts hydrogen peroxide, Dawn dishwashing detergent, and warm water. Apply this mixture generously to the affected area, allowing it to soak for 15 minutes. Use a laundry scrub brush to gently scrub the area after soaking. Inspect the spot to determine if the stain is still visible.
If the stain persists, repeat the cleaning process until the markings are no longer apparent. Once the stain has been removed, rinse out any remaining solution and launder the fabric as you normally would.
Clean Your Toilet
Create a solution by combining equal parts hydrogen peroxide and soap. Add baking soda and warm water to the mixture, stirring until dissolved. Finally, add a few drops of your preferred essential oil for a pleasant aroma. This cleaning concoction can be used to tackle even the toughest toilet stains. To apply, use the toilet brush to spread the solution evenly around the bowl. Allow it to sit for a short period before flushing to rinse away any remaining grime.
Disinfect Fridge
The frequency of my fridge cleaning days can be attributed to the varying contents I’ve accumulated over time. Since adopting hydrogen-based disinfection methods, however, I’ve noticed a more consistent schedule for these tasks. To maintain a hygienic environment, I recommend starting by spraying the walls and shelves with a solution similar to a cleaner after removing all items.
Allow it to sit for 5 minutes before thoroughly washing everything with plain soap, water, and finishing with a dry clean cloth.
Sanitize Floors
Maintaining floor cleanliness is crucial, especially when sharing space with little ones. To ensure a healthy environment, it’s essential to sanitize your floors regularly. Hydrogen peroxide makes this task surprisingly easy. Begin by thoroughly sweeping and mopping your floors as you normally would. Next, spray the hydrogen peroxide solution onto the surfaces and allow it to sit for a few minutes. Then, use a clean cloth or sponge to wipe down the area, letting it air dry completely.
The leftover solution will evaporate without leaving any residue behind, making the surface safe for everyone – including pets – to occupy.
Disinfect Washing Machine
Disinfecting your washing machine may seem like a daunting task, however, it’s a crucial step in maintaining its cleanliness and eliminating unpleasant odors. To get started, take some time to wipe down the entire machine with a damp cloth, removing any dirt, hair, or debris that can accumulate and cause issues over time. Once you’ve completed this step, pour 2 cups of hydrogen peroxide into the washing machine drum and run the hottest wash cycle.
This combination will help sanitize your machine and eliminate any lingering bacteria or odors.
Deodorize Your Shoes
When it comes to deodorizing shoes, having a simple and effective DIY solution at hand can be a lifesaver – literally. For anyone who’s ever dealt with stinky footwear, here’s a straightforward formula to banish unpleasant odors: hydrogen peroxide is the key. The process is remarkably easy, requiring just two steps. First, take out your shoes and expose as much of their interior as possible before spraying the area thoroughly (use as much peroxide as needed to combat the level of smell).
Next, let them sit undisturbed for the night or until they’re completely dry. As the hydrogen peroxide works its magic, it not only eliminates any lingering fungi or bacteria but also neutralizes the underlying odor by wiping out these pesky microbes, you’ll be left with a fresh, fungus-free shoe that’s as pleasant to wear as it is easy to maintain.
Remove Smell from Towels
If your towels have become lackluster in both appearance and scent, there’s a simple solution. Add one cup of hydrogen peroxide to your wash cycle along with your regular soap. Not only will this combination leave your towels smelling fresher, but it will also help to restore their vibrancy. To dry them, hang them outside in direct sunlight for optimal results. Alternatively, if the weather doesn’t cooperate, use the hottest setting on your dryer to achieve a similar effect.
Clean Burnt Pots, Pans, and Baking Sheets
Reviving burnt spots on pots, pans, or baking sheets can be a real challenge, but fear not – a simple solution involving baking soda and peroxide can work wonders. Start by sprinkling baking soda liberally over the entire surface of the affected area, then spray peroxide until you achieve a pasty consistency that covers all dark spots evenly. Allow the mixture to sit overnight, allowing the chemicals to work their magic.
The next day, use a scraper to gently remove any remaining residue and clean up the area. Finish by washing with hot soapy water and a scrubber, then rinse and dry when you’re satisfied with the result.
Disinfect Reusable Grocery Bags
Reusable grocery bags often fall victim to neglect, accumulating bacteria and germs from carrying food from public places. To keep them hygienic, a simple washing with soap and water is sufficient, or for added convenience, toss them in your machine and let air dry. After drying, give the bags an extra layer of sanitization by spraying them down with peroxide, making sure to thoroughly cover all surfaces, including seams.
Finally, allow the bags to air dry once more, ideally under the warm rays of the sun.
Remove Coffee Stains from Cups
For our final hack, add a sufficient amount of undiluted peroxide to each mug once it’s been thoroughly cleaned. Ensure that the stain is completely covered by the peroxide; as soon as the marks disappear, pour the solution into the next stained mug. Once all mugs have undergone this process, rinse and dry them to complete the cycle. With these magic eraser hacks under your belt, you’re ready to elevate your cleaning game and bring a new level of shine to your home.