At a Glance
CPAP machines can be donated to specific organizations if they’re gently used and in working condition. Unopened and unexpired CPAP supplies are also commonly accepted. These donations are tax deductible as long as the organization receiving the gift is registered as tax exempt with the IRS.
If you have a CPAP machine you’re no longer using, you may be able to donate it. Because CPAP equipment can be expensive, some people with sleep apnea are unable to afford these devices. As a result, several organizations accept donations of functional and gently used CPAP equipment. They sanitize the machines, then give them to people in need.
Below, we’ll cover the details of donating CPAP machines and supplies, including where and how to donate them and alternatives if your device isn’t eligible for donation.
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Can You Donate a CPAP Machine?
You can donate a CPAP machine if it’s gently used and in good working condition. However, only specific organizations take in CPAP machine donations, and each organization has its own requirements for acceptable devices.
For example, many require that the device come from a non-smoking household. As a result, you need to carefully check the requirements or contact the organization before dropping off or shipping a CPAP machine donation.
You cannot donate CPAP machines that have been subject to an FDA recall. For example, many Phillips Respironics CPAP and BiPAP machines were recalled in 2021 for safety concerns. These devices generally cannot be donated, even if they’re in new or like-new condition.
Can You Donate CPAP Supplies?
Many organizations that accept CPAP machines also accept unexpired CPAP supplies that are still in their original packaging. Unused CPAP accessories that can usually be donated include:
- Masks
- Chin straps and other headgear
- Tubing
- Filters
- Humidifier water chambers
Check with the specific organization to confirm the types of CPAP supplies that they accept for donation.
Where to Donate a CPAP Machine
A number of non-profit organizations have programs for CPAP donation. These organizations refurbish used CPAP devices so they’re safe to reissue to people who can’t afford to buy a CPAP device.
However, some organizations place limits on the number of devices they can accept or the type and condition of acceptable units. You should always reach out and check with the organization before sending a CPAP donation.
- The Wellness, Sleep and Circadian Network (WSCN): Formerly known as the American Sleep Apnea Association (ASAA), this group is dedicated to improving sleep health and reducing the burden of sleep apnea. They accept new and lightly used CPAP and BiPAP machines from smoke-free households.
- The Reggie White Foundation: Named after the former NFL star, this Texas-based organization accepts many CPAP and BiPAP machines and supplies.
- Breathe California: This organization focused on respiratory health accepts CPAP machine donations in person and by mail. They distribute devices to people in need in the San Francisco Bay Area.
- MedWish Medworks: This organization accepts drop-off donations in Cleveland and those sent by mail. They distribute CPAP machines and other medical equipment both domestically and internationally.
- Advocates for World Health: Accepting mailed donations from all 50 states, Advocates for World Health sends medical equipment across the globe, primarily to Central America.
- Health Equipment Recycling Organization (HERO): HERO accepts donations of CPAP and BiPAP machines that they distribute around the world.
In addition, you may find that there are local charities that accept donations of CPAP devices and supplies.
How to Donate a CPAP Machine
Follow these steps to donate your used CPAP machine:
- Check the condition: Make sure your CPAP machine is in working condition and not too old or heavily used. Damaged or non-functional devices aren’t eligible for donation.
- Clean the device: Give the device’s exterior a thorough cleaning with soap and water. Consult the user’s manual for more specific cleaning instructions.
- Find an organization: Choose an organization for your donation and confirm that it will accept your specific model in its current condition.
- Drop off or mail your machine: If donating in person, double-check the hours at the drop-off location. If mailing your CPAP machine, take note of the address and any specific instructions for shipping.
- Keep records: If you want your donation to be tax-deductible, keep the shipping receipt and any other relevant records, such as an acknowledgement from the charity.
How to Clean a CPAP Machine Before Donating
Cleaning a CPAP machine is essential for removing dust, dirt, and germs. In most cases, you can clean a CPAP device with mild soap and warm water, but you should always check the user’s manual for instructions from the manufacturer.
Remember that you can’t donate any used CPAP supplies, so you can dispose of any opened masks, tubing, or filters instead of cleaning them.
Alternatives to Donating a CPAP Machine
Instead of donating your device, you may have the option of selling it to a company that refurbishes CPAP machines. For example, Second Wind CPAP buys used devices and offers them at a significant discount to people who can’t afford a new machine. However, there may be stricter requirements for the age and condition of your device.
If your CPAP isn’t in proper condition for donation, you can take it to a local recycling center or e-waste disposal site. Many products with electronic components can be partially recycled to reduce waste. In addition, electronic medical devices like CPAP machines can leach chemicals into the environment if they aren’t disposed of properly.
Check with your local government for information about electronics recycling and e-waste disposal in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions
You cannot donate a recalled CPAP machine, such as Philips Respironics machines, which were recalled in 2021. Because these devices were determined to pose health risks, organizations do not accept them as donations.
Donations of CPAP machines are tax-deductible as long as the organization receiving the donation is registered as tax-exempt. On the IRS website, you can look up different organizations to confirm that they’re registered as tax-exempt.
According to IRS rules, you can deduct the fair market value of your donated CPAP machine. Fair market value is the price that you could sell the device for in its current condition. This means that you cannot deduct the full retail price of that CPAP model nor your original purchase price.
Non-cash donations must be reported on IRS Form 8283, and other documentation, including donation receipt, is required for this tax deduction.
CPAP masks and tubing can usually be donated as long as they’re unexpired and in their original packaging. Some organizations require that CPAP accessories have at least 12 months remaining before they reach their expiration date.
In addition to masks and tubing, you can typically donate other unopened CPAP supplies, such as filters, headgear, and humidifier reservoirs.
Still have questions?
Sleep apnea products can be confusing. If you need individualized assistance, post your question to the Sleep Doctor forum.
Written by
Eric Suni, Contributing WriterEric Suni is a health and science writer who covers sleep apnea, CPAP therapy, and sleep health for SleepApnea.org. He has more than a decade of experience translating complex medical research into clear, accessible information that helps readers better understand their health and treatment options.
