10 Awesome Uses for Hydrogen Peroxide

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Hydrogen Peroxide is most commonly used to treat cuts and scrapes, but did you know there were many other uses as well? Even if you knew, aren't you curious to see how many you've tried and how many you haven't?

Helpful Hints Before Using Hydrogen Peroxide

Before using any of these, you should remember to always keep the peroxide in the dark container it comes in. Once it has been exposed to air and light, it loses some of its efficacy. It is best to use it straight from the bottle and right away after you take it from the bottle with a cloth or tissue.

It's also important to remember to be safe with peroxide. If swallowed, it can be harmful and should be kept out of reach of children. Should accidental poisoning occur, you should contact a poison control center and possibly 911 immediately. If a large amount is swallowed, 911 should be called rather than poison control. This goes for adults as well as children.

Ten Awesome Uses For Hydrogen Peroxide

Mouthwash - Hydrogen Peroxide can be used as an alternative to mouthwash. It disinfects the mouth, freshens the breath, and whitens the teeth all in one step. Of course, you'll still need toothpaste, but you won't need your mouthwash anymore. This costs less and is more effective. Just ask your dentist or doctor about it and they're likely to agree. Use it every day right after each brushing and flossing. All you need is about a capful. Swish it around for 30 seconds, just like mouthwash. Don't rinse your mouth out afterwards.

Countertop & Cutting Board Sanitizer - If you need to sanitize your countertops, hydrogen peroxide will do so, killing the germs and even salmonella. Fill a spray bottle with half water and half hydrogen peroxide, spray and wipe clean. Keep in mind that using this solution will discolor or damage some surfaces, so do a spot test in an inconspicuous area first and then wait 24 hours to see what happens. You can also use hydrogen peroxide as an effective means of sanitizing your cutting boards. It will kill salmonella and other harmful bacteria. Use the same solution as you would for sanitizing countertops.

Toothbrush Rinse - Rinse your toothbrush with hydrogen peroxide before and after each use to keep it sanitary.

Bleach Alternative - If you need an alternative to bleach, you can add 1/2 cup hydrogen peroxide to your load of laundry. It even gets out blood. Be careful, though because it really does bleach. Don't use it any dyed clothing, only whites.

Fight Mold -  Peroxide is effective against some toxic molds, but be aware that it doesn't kill germs from all of them, so it's best to leave it up to the professionals. However, I do recommend applying it in areas of your bathroom that are prone to mold, such as the cracks in the caulking of the bathtub and shower.

Computer Keys & Screen - Peroxide is a great cleaner for your computer keys as well. It kills the bacteria and air dries quickly, so the equipment doesn't get damaged. While you're at it, it's also safe for the screen, outside of the computer, outside of speakers, and the outside of any other equipment.

Bathroom Mirrors - Peroxide cleans the bathroom mirrors without leaving behind any smears, plus since it kills bacteria, you have the added benefit of knowing it's okay for your kids to kiss the mirror. Oh, come on, you know they love to do it.

Treat Acne - You can use peroxide to treat acne as well. It's the main ingredient in most acne medicines and the other ingredients in them aren't necessary. Just apply it to the affected area once or twice a day and watch how quickly the acne disappears.

Kill Bathroom Bacteria - You can keep a spray bottle of peroxide in the bathroom. Use it to spray the shower/tub, sink, and toilet area to keep away bacteria and viruses. Spray regularly.

Clean Off Fruits & Veggies - You can use it to clean fruits and vegetables. Here's how: Fill your sink with cold water. Then, add 1/4 cup peroxide and some salt. Scrub the vegetables and rinse them. This kills any lingering viruses or bacteria. It also keeps the food fresher longer.

If you don't have hydrogen peroxide in your cabinet, get some today!