The Disinfectant Power of Hydrogen Peroxide Hydrogen peroxide cleaners are advised for destroying viruses and germs such as the flu, H1N1, and oral streptococci. It has been reported to kill bacteria that cause tuberculosis, leprosy, chancroid, granuloma, and yersinia infections. Hydrogen peroxide is also effective in killing bacteria that cause gum disease and pneumonia. Bacteria come in many shapes and sizes. Some are good for you and some aren't. Some live in our body and help us produce certain chemicals while others don't and cause problems for us. The good news is that most bacteria cannot survive in the presence of hydrogen peroxide. It has been estimated that one tablespoon of 3% hydrogen peroxide can cleanse about 500 square feet of floor space. That's a lot of room for disinfection! Hydrogen peroxide is a very effective bactericide that kills most pathogens including viruses. It is used in home cleaning products, hospitals, and laboratories to sterilize instruments and surfaces. There are several types of bacteria that can survive in the presence of hydrogen peroxide. These include spores, bacteria that grow in chains (such as Staphylococcus aureus), and bacteria that need oxygen (such as Streptococcus).