How to Mix Hydrogen Peroxide and Water

Written by Johari Imani Murray

27 July, 2017

Hydrogen peroxide is caustic in high concentrations 1. Mixing hydrogen peroxide with water to lower grade concentrations fosters safer hydrogen peroxide use, regardless of the application method you choose 1.

Put on gloves. Hydrogen peroxide is a very strong oxidizer and will temporarily turn skin white on contact 1 2.

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Obtain a 35% Food Grade Hydrogen Peroxide to mix with water 1 2. Never use 35% food grade hydrogen peroxide without diluting it first 1. This concentration is used in food products, sprayed inside of foil-lined containers for food and used to disinfect potable water. Lesser grades are created when this grade is mixed with water.

Determine the purpose for which you want to use the hydrogen peroxide and water solution 1.

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Decide the proper grade you want to reach after mixing. Keep in mind: 3% Hydrogen Peroxide is the kind used to treat wounds and sanitize 1. It tends to need preservatives. 6% Hydrogen Peroxide is typically used for hair coloring and sanitizing 1. 30% Re-Agent Hydrogen Peroxide is used in medical research while the 30-32% Electronic Grade Hydrogen Peroxide is used for washing transistors and integrated chip parts before assembly 1.

Pour 2 ounces of 35% hydrogen peroxide into your mixing container 1. This container may be the same as your storage container. It is important to remember to keep the solution out of direct sunlight and in a cool place. Exposure to sun and heat will break the mix down into oxygen and water and render it useless.

Mix in 22 oz of distilled water. You can use tap water, but it has impurities that may interfere with the preservation of the solution. Use a 2 to 22 ratio to calculate mixing concentrations higher than the 3% hydrogen peroxide solution 1 2.

Store in a dark bottle. Keep out of reach of children.

Tips

Here are some dental applications for using hydrogen peroxide and water mix.

• Soak your toothbrush in the 3% solution of hydrogen peroxide solution to help kill bacteria on the brush after brushing. You can also do this with dentures.

• Mix a tablespoon of 3% hydrogen peroxide solution in a cup of water for a mouthwash. Keep it in your mouth for up to 60 seconds but don't swallow and be sure to rinse your mouth out afterward. This can also help whiten teeth.