DIY Life

I imagine that at least one of you has already seen (and read) the email passed on about the many uses of Hydrogen Peroxide. It starts like this:

We know ... vinegar/baking soda and now peroxide - our mothers were right!

While for the most part these types of a emails are what I often refer to as eRumors -- this one has merit and is worth repeating. A bottle of peroxide is still under $1, so I thought I'd share with you some of the beneficial uses listed by the original author (Becky Ransey of Indiana) along with some of my own comments.

1. Take one capful (the little white cap that comes with the bottle) and hold in your mouth for 10 minutes daily, then spit it out. No more canker sores and your teeth will be whiter without expensive pastes. Use it instead of mouthwash. -- I even go one step further and brush my teeth with the capful of peroxide right before I brush with my toothpaste.
   
2. Clean your counters, table tops with peroxide to kill germs and leave a fresh smell. Simply put a little on your dishrag when you wipe, or spray it directly on the counter. -- I keep peroxide in a spray bottle under the sink for quick reach. The same goes for the bathroom, try making a 50/50 mixture of peroxide and water to disinfect without harming your septic system like bleach or most other disinfectants will. For other household uses check out these additional interesting tips.
   
3. After rinsing off your wooden cutting board, pour (or spray) peroxide on it to kill salmonella and other bacteria.
4. If you have a terrible toothache and can not get to a dentist right away, put a capful of 3% peroxide into your mouth and hold it for ten minutes several times a day. The pain will lessen greatly.
   
5. And of course, if you like a natural look to your hair, spray the 50/50 solution on your wet hair after a shower and comb it through. You will not have the peroxide burnt blonde hair like the hair dye packages, but a more natural highlights if your hair is a light brown, faddish, or dirty blonde.
   
6. You can also add a cup of peroxide instead of bleach to a load of whites in your laundry to whiten them. If there is blood on clothing, pour directly on the soiled spot. Let is sit for a minute, then rub it and rinse with cold water. Repeat if necessary.
   
7. Gargle with hydrogen peroxide, put drops in the ear and nose to end colds, flue, chronic sinusitis (including polyps), and infections.
8. Use as a vegetable wash or soak to kill bacteria and neutralize chemicals. -- There are several credible references about the use of hydrogen peroxide on fruits and vegetables.
   
9. Clean with hydrogen peroxide when your house becomes a bio hazard after its invaded by toxic mold, such as those with water damage.
   

It seems that this medicine cabinet staple can do more than just disinfect! Let us know how you use hydrogen peroxide?