Hydrogen Peroxide for Laundry: Whitening and Stain Removal
How to use hydrogen peroxide to brighten whites and tackle common stains, plus the fabrics to avoid.
The quick answer
How to use hydrogen peroxide to brighten whites and tackle common stains, plus the fabrics to avoid.
In this guide
Hydrogen peroxide is an oxygen bleach, the same type of active ingredient found in many "oxy" stain removers. Used correctly, it brightens whites and lifts a range of stains.
Brightening whites
- Add 100–200ml of 3% hydrogen peroxide to the drawer or drum with your usual detergent.
- Wash as normal on the care label temperature.
For dingy items, soak in a bucket of warm water with a cup of 3% peroxide for 30 minutes before washing.
Spot-treating stains
Works well on many organic stains, such as:
- Grass
- Sweat marks on white shirts
- Fruit and juice
- Wine
- Fresh blood (use cold water only)
Apply a little 3% directly to the stain, leave for a few minutes, blot, then wash. For stubborn stains, make a paste with bicarbonate of soda.
Patch test first
Hydrogen peroxide can lighten dyes. Test on a hidden seam of coloured items, and avoid using it on:
- Wool and silk
- Leather
- Dark or non-colourfast fabrics
Never combine
Do not use hydrogen peroxide in the same wash or soak as chlorine bleach or vinegar.
6% users
If you buy 6%, dilute it 1:1 with water to get 3% before using it on fabrics. Wear gloves.
Always read the label and the safety data sheet, which you can download from each product page.
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Hydrogen Peroxide 3% Food Grade (10 Vol)
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