Will Peroxide Stain Clothes?
Hydrogen peroxide is a cleaning agent that can remove blood, dirt and other unsightly stains from clothing. Many people wonder if it can stain clothing, which is a valid concern. The good news is that peroxide typically won’t stain clothes, but there are a few exceptions.
What can stain clothing?
The hydrogen peroxide itself will not create a stain when it comes in contact with clothes, but there are other substances that can cause staining during the cleaning process. For instance:
- Perspiration: When cleaning clothes with perspiration stains, the peroxide can react with sweat and other minerals in the sweat, creating a yellowish green discoloration. This is not permanent and can usually be removed by washing your clothes again or soaking it in a bleach-water mixture.
- Dye from clothing: While the peroxide itself typically won’t leave a stain, it can react with dye from clothing, leaving a white stain. Be sure to test any fabric that may not be colorfast, and then spot test any type of clothing before washing it with hydrogen peroxide.
- Other materials: Peroxide can also react with certain materials such as rubber or plastic, so keep any items made of these materials away from the peroxide.
How to prevent staining
When using hydrogen peroxide to clean clothes, there are a few preventative steps you can take to avoid any potential staining.
- Test your clothing for color fastness before washing with hydrogen peroxide.
- Only use as much peroxide as you need and make sure you dilute it in water before applying it to the fabric.
- Wash the clothing separately. If you are washing a full load of laundry with peroxide, make sure to use a separate wash cycle and launder that load separately.
- Always use cold water and never let the peroxide sit on the fabric for more than a few minutes.
- Once washed, hang the clothing in direct sunlight to help ensure the peroxide is completely washed out.
Overall, hydrogen peroxide is an effective cleaner that will not typically damage or stain clothing. As long as you take the necessary precautions, you can safely and effectively clean your clothes with peroxide.