The Most Important Bottle in Your Home–Hydrogen Peroxide
Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in 2019 and has been refreshed for clarity, accuracy, and improved readability.
The Most Important Bottle in Your Home: Hydrogen PeroxideHydrogen peroxide is one of the most underrated items in your home. Found in almost every pharmacy and grocery store, this inexpensive liquid is known for disinfecting small cuts—but its uses go far beyond first aid. At Ernest Homes, we rounded up more than 40 practical, surprising, and truly helpful ways to use hydrogen peroxide throughout your home and daily routine.
Health & Personal Care Uses
Ease a Sore Throat
Gargle a 50/50 mixture of warm water and hydrogen peroxide to soothe irritation. Do not swallow the mixture.
Freshen Breath & Support Oral Health
- Swish gently to help with canker sores.
- Hold in your mouth for a few minutes to help relieve tooth discomfort.
- Mix baking soda with hydrogen peroxide for a DIY toothpaste or denture cleaner.
Revitalize Your Skin
Add half a pint of hydrogen peroxide to bath water to help rejuvenate the skin thanks to its mild antibacterial properties.
Prevent Yeast Infections
Some people add a small amount of hydrogen peroxide to a routine feminine care rinse to reduce Candida growth. Always consult a healthcare provider before use.
Fight Acne
Apply a small amount once to the affected area to kill bacteria. Avoid overuse to protect healthy skin flora.
Beat Foot Fungus
Soak feet in a 50/50 water and peroxide mix to relieve athlete’s foot. Also use the mixture to disinfect shower shoes.
Treat Ear Concerns
- A few drops can help with mild ear irritation.
- For earwax removal: add a few drops of olive oil, then peroxide, then rinse with warm water.
Note: Persistent or painful symptoms require medical care.
Disinfect Toothbrushes
Pour peroxide over your toothbrush to eliminate lingering bacteria.
Soften Corns & Calluses
Soak feet in a mixture of one cup peroxide and half a cup of water for 15 minutes. Repeat weekly for best results.
Cleaning & Disinfecting Uses
Clean and Sanitize Countertops
Mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water in a spray bottle to disinfect kitchen and bathroom surfaces.
Whiten Grout
Spray hydrogen peroxide onto dry grout, allow it to sit for several hours, then scrub with soapy water.
Streak-Free Mirrors
Spray and wipe with a paper towel for crystal-clear results.
Brighten the Toilet & Tub
- Pour four ounces into the toilet bowl and let sit for 20 minutes before scrubbing.
- Combine peroxide, vinegar, and baking soda to clear minor clogs.
- Use peroxide to remove rust stains.
Fight Mold Naturally
Spray directly on moldy areas, let sit, then wipe clean.
Sanitize Cutting Boards
After rinsing, spray with hydrogen peroxide to eliminate bacteria hiding in crevices.
Boost Your Dishwasher
Add a few ounces to your dishwasher detergent to enhance cleaning power.
Disinfect Sponges & Dishcloths
Soak in hydrogen peroxide to kill germs and extend their lifespan.
Food & Kitchen Uses
Clean Fruits & Vegetables
Spray a mixture of peroxide and vinegar onto produce, rinse, and air dry. This helps remove contaminants and extend freshness.
Refresh the Refrigerator
Wipe shelves and drawers with peroxide to eliminate odors, stains, and bacteria.
Unexpected & Creative Uses
Grow Mushrooms in the Refrigerator
Believe it or not, peroxide plays a role in growing oyster mushrooms at home. Watch the tutorial linked in the original version of this post for details.
And guess what? We’re just getting started! For more incredible ways to use hydrogen peroxide, check back for our next blog post in this series.
If you’d like more tips for maintaining your home or exploring new home options, the team at Ernest Homes is here to help! Contact us anytime.
