We all know that household cleaning and disinfectant products are pretty crucial in our daily lives. But do you know that these products are nothing but a standard Hydrogen Peroxide solution? Yes, that's true; Hydrogen Peroxide is a widespread and affordable disinfecting product. However, one question which bothers all of us is that does Hydrogen Peroxide expire?
Don't worry because we've got you covered through this article. Also, we will learn more about the nature of this chemical product and how long it can last while being effective.
What is Hydrogen Peroxide, and what are its uses?
Hydrogen Peroxide is nothing but just another chemical compound that contains two atoms of both hydrogen and oxygen. Moreover, its chemical formula (H2O2) also looks quite similar to the Water's chemical formula (H2O).
But do not let these chemical formulas deceive you because Hydrogen Peroxide is quite different. For example, a pure Hydrogen Peroxide solution usually looks pale blue and has a strong odour too. However, the solution which we usually purchase from pharmacies is colourless. Wondering, why?
Firstly, the pharmacy's solutions contain 3 to 7 per cent of Hydrogen Peroxide only. Moreover, the rest composition includes Water only which makes the solution a bit colourless.
Let's jump onto some of its typical applications now:
● You can use it to clean your dishes and other utensils at home.
● We can also use it to clean our bathrooms, bathtubs, shower and mirrors.
● Many food production and healthcare industries are also using these solutions.
● Lastly, Hydrogen Peroxide is also used in different products like Bleach, Hair Dye, Beauty Products, etc.
Does Hydrogen Peroxide expire? And how long it can last?
In a sealed bottle, Hydrogen Peroxide doesn't expire for at least three years. However, if the bottle is already opened, it may last for a shorter time. But don't worry because the expiration of this solution only means that it's not effective anymore.
If you want to keep this solution safe and effective for a long time, make sure you keep them in a cool and dark place. Also, make sure you're keeping it in the original brown bottle. Why? Because these bottles are specially built to prevent the solution from any source of light.
Lastly, make sure that the remaining liquid doesn't come in touch with anything else. Because dipping a piece of cloth inside the bottle can make this solution decompose quickly.
Concluding on does Hydrogen Peroxide expire?
As we mentioned above, that any unopened Hydrogen Peroxide solution can last up to three years. However, if the expiration date is already passed, then it means that it's not that effective anymore. Because after a specific time, the 3-7 per cent of Hydrogen Peroxide fades away. So, if you're using an expired solution, then it means you're washing your dishes only with Water.
Lastly, remember that storing these cleaning solutions in dark and cool areas can give better results. Moreover, make sure that you're only using its original brown bottle. These bottles can prevent your Hydrogen Peroxide solution from light that can decompose it much quicker.
You can also review its effectiveness by pouring a little bit of it into a sink. If you see some bubbles, then it means your Hydrogen Peroxide solution is still effective.