Cleaning and care
Ozone and UV CPAP Cleaners: What the FDA Says
In February 2020 the FDA warned that devices claiming to clean CPAP equipment with ozone gas or UV light were not legally marketed for that use and carried risks. As of the FDA's August 2024 consumer update, the agency had authorized only one add-on device to reduce bacteria on certain masks and hoses, and it says no add-on replaces the manufacturer's soap and water cleaning.
The 2020 safety communication
On February 28, 2020 the FDA issued a safety communication saying devices that claim to clean, disinfect or sanitize CPAP equipment using ozone or UV light were not legally marketed for this use in the US, and that their safety and effectiveness were unknown.
The FDA reported receiving 11 reports from 2017 to 2019 of breathing problems, headaches and asthma attacks linked to ozone based cleaners. Its own lab testing found some ozone devices produced ambient ozone above levels considered safe.
Risks of ozone and UV
Ozone is a lung irritant. The FDA's consumer update says ozone levels inside CPAP equipment can remain above safe limits hours after cleaning, and it lists unexpected asthma attacks, headaches and breathlessness among reported problems.
For UV, the FDA cites possible eye injury, skin burns and increased skin cancer risk from overexposure, and says it had no evidence UV machines protect users from unsafe UV exposure. Both ozone and UV can also break down CPAP materials.
The one authorized add-on device
The FDA's consumer update, current as of August 26, 2024, says the agency has authorized only one device as an add-on to reduce bacteria on certain CPAP masks and hoses after regular cleaning (marketing authorization DEN210037).
The FDA is explicit that an add-on device does not replace the manufacturer's recommended cleaning process. We do not recommend any ozone or UV cleaner as a substitute for washing.
Recalled Philips machines and ozone
Philips has warned that ozone cleaning may worsen breakdown of the PE-PUR foam in recalled devices and that it cannot verify the safety of devices cleaned with ozone or other unapproved methods.
If you own any Philips sleep device, clean only as the user manual directs.
What to do instead
Wash masks, hoses and tubs with mild soap and water, as the FDA and manufacturers describe. Some manufacturers also allow diluted vinegar for certain parts. Replace or clean filters on schedule. Wipe the machine housing with a damp cloth and never submerge it.
If you used an ozone cleaner and have had headaches, coughing or breathing problems, stop using it and tell your clinician.
Supplies that can help
Plain, mild dish soap is the cleaning agent most CPAP makers and the FDA point to for masks, tubing and humidifier chambers.
Pre-moistened wipes for a quick daily wipe of the mask cushion, mostly to remove skin oils between proper washes.
A long, flexible brush sized to reach the full length of CPAP tubing so you can scrub the inside, not just soak it.
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Frequently asked questions
Are ozone CPAP cleaners FDA approved?
No ozone CPAP cleaner was FDA authorized as of the FDA's August 2024 update. The FDA's 2020 safety communication said ozone and UV cleaners for CPAP were not legally marketed for that use.
Is UV light safe for cleaning a CPAP mask?
The FDA says it does not know whether UV CPAP cleaners are safe or effective, warns of eye and skin injury from overexposure, and notes UV can break down CPAP materials.
Does using an ozone cleaner void my CPAP warranty?
Manufacturers including ResMed and Philips specify their own cleaning methods and warn against unapproved ones. Read your warranty terms; Philips has said it cannot verify the safety or performance of devices cleaned with ozone.
What is the safest way to clean a CPAP?
Mild soap and water, following your manual, is what the FDA and manufacturers recommend.
Sources
Last reviewed October 11, 2026. How we research · Report an error