Hydrogen Peroxide and Baking soda: A Powerful Home Cleaning Duo
A viral cleaning hack combining hydrogen peroxide and baking soda is gaining traction for its ability to disinfect, eliminate bacteria, and tackle tough grime around the home. Content creator Alejandra Pez, via her Instagram account @alepez, recently popularized a method utilizing the two ingredients to restore yellowed plastics, but their combined cleaning power extends far beyond aesthetic fixes.
While both are effective cleaning agents individually, combining hydrogen peroxide and baking soda creates a synergistic reaction. Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is a mild abrasive and deodorizer, while hydrogen peroxide is an antiseptic and bleaching agent. When mixed, they fizz, releasing oxygen which helps lift dirt and kill bacteria. This potent combination offers a non-toxic alternative to harsh chemical cleaners, appealing to those seeking safer home sanitation solutions.
How to Use Hydrogen Peroxide and Baking Soda for Cleaning:
* Disinfecting Surfaces: Create a paste of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide to scrub kitchen counters, bathroom surfaces, and cutting boards. Let sit for a few minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
* Removing Mold and Mildew: Apply the paste to moldy grout or shower tiles, let it fizz, scrub, and rinse. Hydrogen peroxideS antiseptic properties help eliminate mold spores.
* Cleaning Drains: Pour ½ cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by 1 cup of hydrogen peroxide. Let it fizz for 30 minutes, then flush with hot water.
* Whitening Grout: Apply a paste to stained grout, let sit, scrub with a brush, and rinse.
* Restoring Yellowed Plastics: As demonstrated by Alejandra Pez, apply 40 volume cream hydrogen peroxide with a brush to yellowed plastics, cover with film paper, and let stand 24 hours before removing the product. This method is effective on switches, heating controls, and small appliances.
Understanding the Science:
Sun exposure,heat,and the accumulation of dirt contribute to the yellowing of plastics.The hydrogen peroxide and baking soda combination helps break down these discolorations. The fizzing action created by the mixture aids in lifting grime and bacteria from surfaces.
It’s crucial to note that while generally safe,hydrogen peroxide can have a bleaching effect,so testing on an inconspicuous area is recommended before applying to colored surfaces.