Hydrogen peroxide is the chemical compound that has the formula of H2O2. It is used as an oxidizer and an agent for bleaching purposes and, at the same time, an antiseptic. Hydrogen peroxide is known to be unstable and can slowly decompose in the presence of light, hence it is stored with a stabilizer in an acidic solution.
According to the CDC, hydrogen peroxide can kill yeasts, fungi, viruses, bacteria, and even mold spores easily. So, is it a suitable chemical to be used for surface disinfection to combat COVID-19 or not to use Hydrogen peroxide? Let's find out!
Why is Hydrogen Peroxide Used?
Hydrogen peroxide is a mild antiseptic used on the skin to prevent infections of the small cuts, burns, and even scrapes. In some instances, it can even be used as a mouth rinse to help remove the mucus or get rid of minor mouth irritations.
The release of the oxygen results in foaming and helps you remove dead skin and clean an area's surface. It should be noted that hydrogen peroxide should not be used to treat deep wounds, animal bites, and even severe burns.
Hydrogen peroxide can be an excellent solution for cleaning cuts and using it as a disinfectant. It can be a great help in the bathroom and the purpose of cleaning hygienic items such as toothbrushes and loofahs. It can also disinfect facial kits such as cleaning devices, shaving brushes, and even make-up blenders.
Other uses of hydrogen peroxide can be to clean the washing machine, it can be used in the laundry, and surprisingly, it can even be used for beauty purposes.
Does Hydrogen Peroxide Seriously Kill Bacteria and Viruses?
Yes! Hydrogen peroxide can be used as a disinfectant, and it can kill germs, viruses, and bacteria. It can kill and destroy the essential components of the cells of the germs and can deactivate the wide range of microorganisms that include fungi, spores, and bacteria. With only 3% concentration, it is very effective as a disinfectant and is typically found in the stores. So what's the downside?
Why Not Use Hydrogen Peroxide?
Hydrogen peroxide may be effective, but it is said to be damaging to surfaces. It is considered a dangerous chemical compared to other disinfectants present, so you have to be more cautious and careful while handling it.
Hydrogen peroxide is described as a material consisting of two atoms of hydrogen and two atoms of oxygen. When the hydrogen peroxide breaks apart as soon as it gets in touch with blood, it creates stinging sizzle. This happens because blood and other living cells contain a special enzyme catalase that immediately attacks hydrogen peroxide and converts it to water and oxygen. Hydrogen peroxide has been used as an antiseptic for years as it can kill the cells of the bacteria and destroys the cell walls but little did we know that it can destroy the cells of the healthy skin as well.
This is the main reason many physicians and dermatologists advise the patients against hydrogen peroxide to clean the wounds.
Other Options
There are many disinfectants in the market that are effective to use. The important thing to keep in mind is the fact that disinfecting and sanitizing is something that we have to do fairly often in order to stay safe against germs, bacteria, and viruses, so it is important to choose a disinfectant that is not only effective but also safe.
Vital Oxide is a disinfectant that is 99.99% effective while remaining safe for humans, pets, and surfaces. It can eliminate allergens and does not require any personal protective equipment while using.
The EPA has also approved Vital Oxide to be used against the SARS-COV-2, which is the virus that causes COVID-19.
Vital Oxide is a great disinfectant to use in foggers or sprayers to cover a large amount of area, and there is no need for rinsing or wiping surfaces after the application.
Before purchasing and using any product such as Hydrogen Peroxide or other disinfectant, it's important to know the dangers. Hydrogen peroxide is okay to be used for some things, but for regular disinfection or sanitization, it is not a good idea.
Vital Oxide is a great and environmentally friendly alternative, that is safe to be used, and just as effective against pathogens. You can find more information about Vital Oxide on Disinfect & Fog's official website, and you can order yours whenever you desire. We strive for what's right for you!
Source: https://www.disinfectandfog.com/blog/why-not-to-use-hydrogen-peroxide-in-combatting-covid-19