Hydrogen Peroxide is a chemical that comes up a lot in the cleaning industry. What’s so great about it?
This article explains the importance behind this essential cleaning chemical.
How Hydrogen Peroxide works
Hydrogen peroxide is an often included ingredient in cleaning products that disinfect surfaces.
These are products that aim to destroy as many microbes as possible.
It is able to destroy a number of microbes, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses.[1]
The way it does this is by releasing highly reactive hydroxyl free radicals.
These are unstable molecules that react with microbes, break them down, and renders them unable to spread or infect.
What makes it great for cleaning
There are a number of advantages with cleaning products that make use of hydrogen peroxide.
It’s generally compatible with many types of surfaces. That said, we recommend following your product’s directions, and testing on an inconspicuous spot.
Hydrogen peroxide breaks down into oxygen and water, which makes it more environmentally friendly.
It also has a great shelf life.
According to some studies, hydrogen peroxide loses less than 2% of potency per year when properly stored. [1]
The chemical must be stored in tightly closed containers, in a dry, cool and well-ventilated place, away from incompatible materials such as acids, alkalis, combustible material and others.
When handling, proper use of PPE is essential.
Sources:
[1] https://www.cdc.gov/infectioncontrol/guidelines/disinfection/disinfection-methods/chemical.html