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How you should dispose of leftover hydrogen peroxide depends largely on the concentration of the solution. We have summarised what you need to bear in mind in this article.
Disposing of standard household hydrogen peroxide – here’s how to do it properly
Hydrogen peroxide is available in various concentrations.
- Hydrogen peroxide with a concentration of up to 12 per cent is available over the counter.
- If you wish to apply hydrogen peroxide to your skin, use it for disinfecting around the home or to lighten your hair, a three-per-cent solution is perfectly adequate.
- You can safely dispose of any leftover three-per-cent solution down the drain – for example, down the washbasin or toilet.
- If the concentration of the solution is over 3 per cent, take it to a hazardous waste collection point.
Dispose of higher concentrations at a hazardous waste collection point
Hydrogen peroxide with a concentration of over 12 per cent is not freely available in shops.
- Hydrogen peroxide solutions with a concentration of over 12 per cent are hazardous.
- These substances are highly corrosive. Although the solution itself is not flammable, it acts as a fire accelerant.
- There is also a risk of explosion if excess pressure builds up in the storage bottles, for example due to heat.
- For this reason, highly concentrated hydrogen peroxide solutions must be disposed of at a hazardous waste collection point.
