What It Means When Your Hydrogen Peroxide Doesn't Fizz While Cleaning

Most of us have a bottle of hydrogen peroxide in our homes due to its many uses. It is a powerful cleaning agent and disinfectant and can kill many bacteria, viruses, and fungi. 

The type of hydrogen peroxide that is best used for cleaning is a 3% medical-grade solution and can be used for a variety of cleaning tasks, from removing stubborn household stains to whitening laundry to cleaning surfaces like floors, countertops, cutting boards, doorknobs, garbage cans, and even toilets. 

Unlike harsh chemicals like bleach, hydrogen peroxide is generally safe to use around people and pets. It breaks down into water and oxygen, so there are no harmful fumes to worry about. 

One thing that hydrogen peroxide is known for its immediate fizz when poured on something, which is a good sign. When you use hydrogen peroxide and it doesn't fizz, it is not cleaning the way it should. Though highly versatile, hydrogen peroxide has a defined period when it is effective, and you can often tell whether it is still good by its fizz.

Hydrogen peroxide naturally breaks down into water and oxygen over time, especially after the bottle has been opened. This breakdown process slows down in the dark and in cool temperatures, but it's inevitable. If your peroxide isn't fizzing when applied, it could be past its prime and no longer effective. The bubbles signify a release of oxygen which is how it works. Keep in mind that it doesn't necessarily mean it's completely ineffective. However, it's best to use fresh hydrogen peroxide for optimal cleaning and disinfecting.

The lifespan of hydrogen peroxide depends on whether it's sealed or opened. When stored in a sealed container at room temperature and away from direct sunlight, hydrogen peroxide can last for roughly three years. That's actually why it comes in a dark brown bottle, to help block light and preserve its potency. Unfortunately, hydrogen peroxide starts to decompose rapidly once the container is opened. Exposure to air and light accelerates this process, reducing its effectiveness. Expect it to remain usable for up to six months after opening, depending on storage conditions.

The best way to tell if hydrogen peroxide is still good is by how it fizzes. If you're unsure whether your opened hydrogen peroxide is still effective, you can do a simple test. Pour a small amount onto a clean surface, like a sink, and observe if it fizzes or bubbles. If it does, it's still potent. However, if there's minimal or no fizzing, it's likely past its prime and should be discarded. Expired hydrogen peroxide isn't harmful, but it's simply ineffective as a disinfectant.

Besides the fizz test, if your hydrogen peroxide has a foul smell, that is another sign it has likely expired. Of course, you always want to check the expiration date, too. If it is past the expiration date, get a new bottle.

There are specific ways to safely store hydrogen peroxide so it lasts longer. First off, if you haven't opened the bottle yet, leave it sealed and store it in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep it in its original brown bottle. Then minimize exposure to air and light, limit opening the bottle, and avoid leaving the lid off. If you're unsure about the effectiveness of your peroxide or have any concerns, it's always best to get a new bottle.