How to Use Hydrogen Peroxide to Prevent Colds

Cold season is a common dread to all those prone to picking up infections from others. One of the easiest ways to prevent colds is to use hydrogen peroxide to kill germs in the ear, nose and mouth. The practice of using hydrogen peroxide in the body began in Germany in the 1930s. While it may seem a strange practice, many swear to its effectiveness for preventing colds. It is important to use the hydrogen peroxide method as soon as cold or flu signals appear; if you wait longer than 24 hours it will not help prevent the cold.

Things You'll Need

• Bottle of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide
• Paper towels or clean cloths
• Q-tips
• Spray bottle

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Instructions

• 1

  Pour a few drops of three percent hydrogen peroxide into the cap of the bottle. Fill no more than a third of the cap.

• 2

  Lie on your side on a flat surface and slowly pour hydrogen peroxide into your ear. It will feel cold and tingly.

• 3

  Listen for bubbling after two or three minutes. Allow the peroxide to continue bubbling for an additional two to five minutes. First-time users may only want to let it bubble for a minute or two, as it may take time to get used to the tingling sensation in the ear.

• 4

  Turn your head over and drain the ear into a clean cloth or paper towel. Use a damp Q-tip to swab the ear if needed. Repeat on the other side.

• 5

  Dilute three percent hydrogen peroxide in a 50/50 solution of water and peroxide. Swish the solution in your mouth for a full minute or longer. Be aware that hydrogen peroxide will foam during swishing.

• 6

  Place toothbrushes in a glass of three percent hydrogen peroxide for a few minutes to disinfect. This action will help avoid reinfection.

• 7

  Spray three percent hydrogen peroxide on all commonly touched surfaces in the home such as door knobs, counters and tables. This will kill germs others may have left behind. Let the spray sit on the surface for a minute or two before wiping down with a clean cloth.