Can hydrogen peroxide go bad?

Hydrogen peroxide is one of the most popular home remedies for everything from acne to ear infections. It is an effective disinfectant which can kill germs, viruses, and bacteria. It also has a number of cosmetic uses. The problem is the chemical is not entirely safe and can cause serious skin damage if not used correctly.

Can hydrogen peroxide go sour?

Hydrogen peroxide also known as water of crystallization, is the chemical that gives many household products their disinfectant properties. The most common ways it’s used in the home are in its liquid and gel forms. Its stability does not decrease with age, so it’s safe to use even after opening a container.

Does hydrogen peroxide go bad?

Hydrogen peroxide does not go bad as long as it is stored properly. When stored correctly, hydrogen peroxide should be kept in an opaque glass container, away from sunlight and other forms of light. Hydrogen peroxide should also be kept away from heat and humidity, especially in hot and humid climates. If left standing in the open, the chemical will lose its effectiveness over time.

How does water and hydrogen peroxide go bad?

Even when you buy hydrogen peroxide without a chemical preservative in it, it will eventually decompose. Hydrogen peroxide is made up of two chemicals: water and oxygen. Over time, the two substances react with each other. This reaction produces several other things, including heat and small amounts of solid waste products.

How do you know if hydrogen peroxide will go bad?

Hydrogen peroxide does not go bad automatically, but it can decompose if it is exposed to certain chemical reactions or if it is stored in the wrong conditions. Contamination is the number one reason why hydrogen peroxide goes bad. There are many contaminants that can cause hydrogen peroxide to decompose, such as bleach, coffee, antifungals, and even some types of detergents.