How to get rid of pink mold in CPAP? A step-by-step guide

September 22, 2025 •

5 min read

According to sleep and respiratory specialists, the pink residue often found in CPAP machines isn't a mold at all but a bacterium known as Serratia marcescens. Knowing how to get rid of pink mold in CPAP equipment requires a careful and consistent cleaning regimen to ensure your device remains safe and sanitary.

Quick Summary

Safely remove the pink bacterial growth from your CPAP by disassembling the unit and cleaning components with a solution of mild soap and warm water, followed by a disinfectant soak in a white vinegar and water mixture. Thorough rinsing and complete air-drying are crucial for eliminating the bacteria and preventing regrowth.

Key Points

Identify the Cause: The pink residue is most often Serratia marcescens bacteria, not mold, but still requires prompt cleaning.
Use Vinegar as Disinfectant: A solution of two parts white vinegar to three parts water is highly effective for killing the bacteria.
Follow Proper Cleaning Steps: Disassemble all components, wash with mild soap, soak in vinegar solution, rinse thoroughly, and air-dry completely.
Prioritize Prevention: Use distilled water only, empty your humidifier daily, and store the equipment in a dry, cool place to prevent regrowth.
Avoid Unproven Cleaners: The FDA has issued warnings about many ozone and UV CPAP cleaners, so stick to manual cleaning methods recommended by manufacturers.
Replace Parts as Needed: Over time, CPAP components can degrade and harbor bacteria; regular replacement is a key part of long-term prevention.

Understanding the 'Pink Mold'

Before you begin cleaning, it's important to understand what you're dealing with. The pink, slimy substance that builds up in damp places like your CPAP's humidifier chamber and tubing is typically not a fungus, but rather a bacteria called Serratia marcescens. This bacteria thrives in moist, warm environments and feeds on fatty deposits found in soap scum and oils, making CPAP equipment a prime breeding ground. While generally less hazardous than black mold, Serratia marcescens can still pose a health risk, especially for those with compromised immune systems, potentially causing respiratory or urinary tract infections.

What are the risks of ignoring pink mold?

Ignoring the pink residue can lead to several problems. For one, you could be constantly inhaling bacteria into your lungs, which is particularly concerning for those with respiratory conditions. A dirty CPAP can also cause skin irritations where the mask touches your face due to a buildup of oils and bacteria. Furthermore, a lack of consistent cleaning can promote the growth of other, more harmful microorganisms over time.

The definitive step-by-step cleaning process

Follow these steps for a complete and thorough cleaning that will eliminate pink mold and sanitize your equipment. Always refer to your specific CPAP machine's manual for manufacturer instructions before proceeding.

Step 1: Disassemble Your CPAP

Unplug your CPAP machine from the power source.
Disassemble the entire system: detach the mask, headgear, tubing, and humidifier chamber.

Step 2: Wash with Mild Soap and Water

Fill a clean sink or basin with warm water.
Add a few drops of mild, unscented, and dye-free dish soap.
Submerge the humidifier chamber, mask, and tubing in the soapy water.
Use a soft-bristle brush, like a CPAP-specific cleaning brush, to scrub all surfaces, paying extra attention to small crevices and tight corners where residue can hide. For the humidifier, scrub inside and around all seals.

Step 3: Disinfect with a Vinegar Solution

Prepare a new solution using a 2:3 ratio of white vinegar to warm water (e.g., 1 cup of vinegar to 1.5 cups of water).
Soak the disassembled components (excluding headgear and filters) in this solution for at least 30 minutes.
This acidic mixture is highly effective at killing Serratia marcescens and neutralizing lingering odors.

Step 4: Rinse Thoroughly

After soaking, rinse every piece meticulously under fresh, running water to remove all traces of soap and vinegar. This is essential to prevent irritation and an unpleasant smell during your next use.

Step 5: Air Dry Completely

Lay all components on a clean, dry towel or hang them to ensure proper air circulation.
Allow everything to air dry completely before reassembly. Moisture is the biggest culprit behind bacterial growth, so this step is critical. Never use a hairdryer, as the heat can damage your equipment.

Comparison: Standard vs. Anti-Mold Cleaning


Feature	Standard Weekly Cleaning	Anti-Mold Cleaning Protocol
Purpose	To remove daily buildup of oils and debris.	To eliminate active bacterial growth and deeply sanitize.
Cleaning Agent	Mild, unscented soap and warm water.	Mild soap, warm water, AND a vinegar/water disinfectant soak.
Disinfection	Standard cleaning does not include a specific disinfection step.	Includes a crucial 30-minute soak in a vinegar solution to kill bacteria.
Frequency	Recommended weekly for routine hygiene.	Should be performed immediately upon discovering pink residue, followed by increased prevention efforts.
Process	Washing, rinsing, and air-drying.	Washing, disinfection soak, thorough rinsing, and complete air-drying.
Risk Level	For general maintenance, but insufficient for existing contamination.	Specifically addresses and mitigates the health risks associated with bacterial growth.

Preventing pink mold from returning

Consistent cleaning is the best defense against pink mold, but there are other preventative measures you can take to make your CPAP less hospitable for bacterial growth.

Use distilled water only: Tap water contains minerals that can promote bacterial growth and leave residue in the humidifier. Always use distilled water in your humidifier chamber.
Empty the humidifier daily: Do not let standing water sit in the chamber. Each morning, empty any remaining water and allow the chamber to air dry during the day.
Store in a cool, dry place: The bathroom is not an ideal place to store your CPAP machine, as it is often humid. Keep your machine in a cool, dry area.
Consider a hose hanger: A hose hanger helps ensure the tubing drains and dries completely, preventing water from pooling inside.
Replace equipment regularly: Filters, tubing, masks, and humidifiers have a limited lifespan. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for replacement to avoid using aged, porous materials that can harbor bacteria.

The FDA on CPAP cleaners

The FDA has issued warnings regarding the use of certain CPAP cleaning machines that utilize ozone gas or UV light, stating that they have not been proven safe or effective for cleaning all CPAP devices. Some of these cleaners can even break down the device's materials over time. Always rely on manual cleaning methods recommended by your equipment manufacturer and healthcare provider. Regular cleaning with mild soap and vinegar is a proven, safe method.

Conclusion: Prioritizing your CPAP's hygiene

Finding pink residue in your CPAP is a sign that your cleaning routine needs improvement, but it doesn't mean your machine is ruined. By identifying the substance as Serratia marcescens bacteria and following a thorough cleaning protocol using mild soap and a vinegar solution, you can safely and effectively eliminate the problem. Proactive prevention, including daily water changes, using distilled water, and proper drying, will ensure your CPAP remains clean and safe for your ongoing health.

For more information on general equipment maintenance, consult resources from reputable medical sources like the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which provides valuable guidance on the safe handling of medical devices: https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/do-you-need-device-claims-clean-cpap-machine.

When to seek professional help

If the pink residue persists despite regular cleaning, or if you notice an increase in respiratory issues or infections, it's wise to speak with your doctor. In some cases, you may need to replace certain components or have a deeper professional cleaning done. Your physician can also rule out any underlying health issues that might be contributing to increased sensitivity or susceptibility to bacteria.

Frequently Asked Questions

While the pink substance is typically a bacteria, Serratia marcescens, not mold, it can pose health risks. For healthy individuals, it's often a nuisance, but for those with compromised immune systems, it can lead to respiratory or other infections. Immediate and thorough cleaning is necessary to remove the risk.

The most effective method is a manual, two-step process. First, wash all disassembled components with warm, soapy water. Second, soak the parts in a disinfecting solution of 2 parts white vinegar and 3 parts water for 30 minutes, followed by a thorough rinse and air-dry.

No, you should never use bleach to clean your CPAP equipment. Bleach can damage the delicate plastic and silicone components, leaving behind chemical residues that can be harmful to inhale. A mild, unscented soap and a vinegar solution are safer and effective alternatives.

Prevention is key. Always use distilled water in your humidifier, as it lacks the minerals that bacteria thrive on. Empty any leftover water from the chamber every morning and allow it to air-dry completely during the day. Keeping the machine in a cool, dry location also helps.

You should wipe down your mask daily and wash the tubing and humidifier weekly with mild soap. If you notice any pink residue, you should perform the full disinfecting vinegar soak immediately. The daily habit of emptying and air-drying the humidifier is the most critical preventative step.

While a thorough cleaning is often sufficient, if the mold is pervasive or the parts are old, replacement may be necessary. This includes tubing, water chambers, and filters. Always follow your equipment's replacement schedule to ensure optimal function and hygiene.

The FDA has not cleared or approved most automated ozone and UV CPAP cleaners for effectively sanitizing the entire device and has warned of potential harm. These devices are not a substitute for proper manual cleaning with soap and a disinfectant like vinegar. Stick with methods recommended by the manufacturer and healthcare professionals.