Hydrogen peroxide is a chemical compound with a formula of H2O2. It is the only germicidal agent composed solely of water and oxygen. This astounding solution kills dangerous germs and micro-organisms through a process of oxidation and is considered to be the world’s safest, all-natural disinfectant and sanitiser. Now that’s an impressive accolade! It was first discovered in 1818 by Louis Jaques Thenard, who happened to stumble upon it quite by chance, while burning barium salts to produce barium peroxide. Thenard noticed that when barium peroxide came into contact with water and dissolved, hydrogen peroxide was produced. Over many years, he worked tirelessly to improve this process and his was the most common method of production until the mid-twentieth century.
Hydrogen peroxide is a chemical compound with a formula of H2O2. It is the only germicidal agent composed solely of water and oxygen. This astounding solution kills dangerous germs and micro-organisms through a process of oxidation and is considered to be the world’s safest, all-natural disinfectant and sanitiser. Now that’s an impressive accolade! It was first discovered in 1818 by Louis Jaques Thenard, who happened to stumble upon it quite by chance, while burning barium salts to produce barium peroxide. Thenard noticed that when barium peroxide came into contact with water and dissolved, hydrogen peroxide was produced. Over many years, he worked tirelessly to improve this process and his was the most common method of production until the mid-twentieth century.
In 1863 it was proved that hydrogen peroxide was present in rainwater and the American Medical Association announced that this had long been Mother Nature’s way of sterilising herself.
Hydrogen peroxide has a lengthy history as a bleaching agent, steriliser, oxidiser and disinfectant. Both gentle and non-toxic, it is used in a variety of industries around the world. A recent study showed hydrogen peroxide to be a powerful and highly effective disinfectant for surfaces in research labs, animal labs, and hospital rooms, thus rendering it an excellent product for bathrooms and kitchens. This natural commodity offers endless cleaning possibilities. You can purchase 3-10% hydrogen peroxide at most supermarkets and grocery stores. I usually use 3% strength and find this is adequate for most cleaning tasks around the home.
Often referred to as “The Wonder Cleaner”, hydrogen peroxide is non-toxic, practical, inexpensive and an excellent green cleaner. Hydrogen peroxide kills germs and organisms through oxidation and is considered the safest and most effective natural sanitiser available. Therefore, it is a fantastic environmentally-friendly alternative to bleach.