Hydrogen peroxide and vinegar are common household products, each with distinct uses. Hydrogen peroxide, typically sold as a 3% solution, is a disinfectant and mild antiseptic, often used for cleaning surfaces and removing stains. Vinegar, primarily a diluted solution of acetic acid, effectively cleans by dissolving mineral deposits, cutting grease, and disinfecting. These substances serve various cleaning and sanitizing purposes independently.
The Chemical Transformation
When hydrogen peroxide and vinegar are combined, they undergo a chemical reaction that creates peracetic acid (PAA). This reaction involves acetic acid from vinegar reacting with hydrogen peroxide. Peracetic acid formation is an equilibrium reaction, meaning it can also break back down into its original components. This reaction occurs even with common household concentrations of 3% hydrogen peroxide and 5-6% acetic acid. In an open container, the peracetic acid formed can be volatile, releasing vapors into the surrounding air.
Understanding the Hazards
The peracetic acid generated from mixing hydrogen peroxide and vinegar is a corrosive substance, posing a health risk. Exposure to this acid can severely irritate and burn the skin and eyes. Inhaling the vapors or fumes from this mixture can cause respiratory tract irritation, with symptoms like coughing, throat irritation, and shortness of breath.
Higher concentrations or prolonged exposure can lead to serious respiratory issues, including pulmonary edema, a medical emergency. Repeated or high exposure may also impact the liver and kidneys. Mixing these chemicals in an uncontrolled environment is dangerous because the concentration of peracetic acid formed is unknown and can vary, making the risk unpredictable. Due to these health risks, never mix hydrogen peroxide and vinegar.
Safer Cleaning Approaches
Both hydrogen peroxide and vinegar are effective cleaning agents when used individually. Hydrogen peroxide is useful for disinfecting surfaces such as countertops, cutting boards, and bathroom fixtures, and can also be used to remove stains from fabrics. It works well to kill bacteria, viruses, and mold spores.
Vinegar, particularly white distilled vinegar, is excellent for cleaning glass without streaks, dissolving hard water stains in appliances, and cutting through grease on various surfaces. It can also be used to deodorize and clean certain areas. For disinfection or cleaning tasks where people might consider mixing these substances, using them separately and consecutively is a safer alternative. Always use single-ingredient cleaners or commercially formulated products, and follow label instructions carefully.