Ozonated water, also called ozone-rich water, is changing the way we clean and disinfect our homes. It harnesses the oxidising power of ozone to sanitise surfaces and fabrics and can reduce the need for conventional detergents.
Traditional “pharmacy hydrogen peroxide”, used for medical purposes, owes its disinfecting action to hydrogen peroxide, which, according to the CDC, produces hydroxyl free radicals that can attack membrane lipids, DNA and other essential cell components. Although their compositions differ, these two types of water have something in common: both work by oxidation, through reactive oxygen species often referred to as active oxygen.
By releasing active oxygen, ozone-rich water helps to reduce microorganisms. Ozone is one of the disinfectants used in drinking water purification, as described in the WHO guidelines for drinking-water quality, and the FDA permits its use as an antimicrobial agent in food processing, in the gaseous or aqueous phase.
With growing attention to sustainability and household safety, demand for more natural alternatives is rising. In this article, discover the benefits, applications, precautions for use and environmental impact of ozone cleaning.
What are ozonated water and active oxygen?
Ozone (O₃) is a molecule made up of three oxygen atoms, instead of the two that form the ordinary molecular oxygen (O₂) we breathe. Ozone-rich water, or ozonated water, is simply water in which ozone gas has been dissolved.
Once dissolved in water, ozone does not remain stable for long. According to the EPA, when it decomposes in water it forms free radicals with great oxidising capacity, which play an active role in disinfection. These reactive oxygen species (ROS), also known as “active oxygen”, include:
- the hydroxyl radical (•OH);
- the hydroperoxyl radical (HO₂•);
- other radical products of ozone decomposition.
Ozone is a very strong oxidant and virucide, according to the same source. Unlike many conventional cleaning products, which may contain chlorine, fragrances and other additives, ozonated water works by oxidation, and because ozone is unstable, it breaks down into oxygen shortly after it is produced.
For this reason, it is seen as a lower-impact alternative for anyone looking to use fewer detergents, in both homes and professional spaces.
What are the benefits of ozonated water for cleaning and hygiene?
In the home, the benefits of ozonated water are many:
- sanitising action, reducing the microbial load on surfaces and fabrics;
- no harmful residues, because ozone breaks down quickly; even so, in homes with children, people with cognitive impairment and pets, it should always be used according to the manufacturer’s instructions;
- savings on detergents and other cleaning products;
- lower environmental impact, by reducing the use of detergents.
Deep cleaning and natural deodorising
The ozone in ozonated water is highly reactive and unstable. As it breaks down, it gives rise to reactive oxygen species (ROS) which, together with the ozone itself, oxidise organic matter. This oxidising action is the basis of its sanitising effect and may help to break down some of the compounds associated with dirt and bad odours.
When removing unwanted odours, such as those from rubbish, fabrics or toilets, ozonated water does not simply mask the smell with fragrances: it acts by oxidation on the organic matter that may cause it.
Sanitising action against bacteria, fungi and viruses
According to the EPA, ozone destroys bacteria mainly through oxidation that leads to cell wall disintegration, and it is more effective than chlorine at destroying viruses and bacteria in wastewater treatment. In the laboratory, water containing 0.4 to 0.8 ppm of ozone caused high mortality rates in bacteria such as Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus and in the yeast Candida albicans, with no cytotoxic effect on the human cells tested (Santos et al., 2021). In another study, spraying with ozonated water reduced the microbial load on volunteers’ clothing and accessories (Mascarenhas et al., 2022). These results were obtained under controlled conditions and depend on the ozone concentration and contact time.
Versatility throughout the home
As well as leaving no harmful residues, ozonated water is very versatile. It can be used on glass, kitchen and bathroom surfaces, fabrics, utensils, toys and even in damp areas, where mould tends to thrive.
Ozonated water therefore promotes natural cleaning and sustainable hygiene, making it a modern, efficient and ecological solution for everyday life. You can explore other options among Filtrarte’s home cleaning solutions.
Sustainability and environmental impact of ozone-rich water
From an environmental point of view, ozone-rich water is an interesting option for cleaning and disinfection. Ozone (O₃) breaks down quickly into oxygen (O₂), so, according to the EPA, it leaves no harmful residues that need to be removed.
This characteristic supports sustainable cleaning: it can reduce the need for rinsing, save water and cut the use of detergents, which helps to protect water quality and aquatic ecosystems.
By replacing conventional chemical products, ozonated water helps to:
- reduce the amount of detergents and other cleaning products that end up in wastewater;
- do away with the plastic packaging of conventional chemical products;
- lower resource consumption throughout the life cycle, in line with the green economy and conscious consumption.
Production and use at home with modern equipment make effective hygiene possible with a reduced environmental impact. Ozone-rich water thus stands out as an efficient ecological solution that brings together technology, safety and sustainability in everyday home care.
How to use ozonated water every day?
Water rich in ozone and active oxygen is very versatile and can be used for daily hygiene in a range of household and professional tasks:
- Kitchen: sanitising worktops, utensils and appliances, removing odours and food residues.
- Bathrooms: helps to reduce bacteria and fungi on surfaces, keeping the space fresh and sanitised.
- Clothes and fabrics: removes dirt and odours naturally, preserving fibres and colours, even in delicate fabrics.
- Shared spaces: offices, gyms and public spaces, where it contributes to safer and more sustainable hygiene.
In the shower and damper areas, regular cleaning is essential. See also how to clean the shower and prevent limescale, mould and residue. Bear in mind that ozonated water acts on organic matter but does not dissolve limescale, which requires a different kind of treatment.
A practical example is the Bee Eco Cleaning 3.0 device, a modern appliance that produces ozonated water, certified for sustainable cleaning and hygiene. It is installed alongside the washing machine and was designed to do away with detergents, fabric softeners and water heating, for those seeking effective results with environmental responsibility.
For cleaning surfaces, you can also explore the Bee range and the Oxipro cleaning system.
Safe ozone cleaning: what precautions should you take?
Ozonated water is safe when produced by suitable equipment and used correctly. Even so, bear in mind that ozone in gas form is an irritant: according to the Portuguese Environment Agency (APA), it can cause eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches, chest pain and breathing difficulties, and the EPA notes that even relatively low amounts can cause coughing, shortness of breath and throat irritation. For this reason, avoid inhaling it.
- Always follow the equipment manufacturer’s instructions, including usage times and maintenance.
- Use ozonated water in well-ventilated spaces and avoid bringing your face close to the equipment during production.
- Use the water straight after it is produced: according to the EPA, ozone breaks down more quickly in water than in air, so the water soon loses its sanitising effect.
- Do not mix it with other cleaning products: ozone reacts with many chemicals and, according to the EPA, these reactions can form harmful or irritating by-products.
- If someone at home has allergic asthma or another respiratory disease, take extra care: according to the WHO, excessive exposure to ozone can trigger asthma and reduce lung function. Increase ventilation and, if in doubt, consult your doctor.
Frequently asked questions about ozonated water
What is the difference between ozonated water and hydrogen peroxide?
Pharmacy hydrogen peroxide is a solution of hydrogen peroxide. Ozonated water is water with dissolved ozone, which generates various reactive oxygen species. Both work by oxidation, but they have different compositions and uses.
Is ozonated water safe to use at home?
Yes, when produced by suitable equipment and used according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Ozone breaks down into oxygen and leaves no harmful residues. The main precaution is to avoid inhaling ozone gas, which irritates the airways, and to keep the space ventilated.
How long does the effect of ozonated water last?
Not long. Dissolved ozone is unstable and breaks down quickly: in one study, it remained more stable in water at 4 °C and pH 5 than at 25 °C and pH 7 (Santos et al., 2021). For this reason, the water should be used straight after it is produced and is not suitable for storing to use later.
Does ozone cleaning replace detergents?
For many daily hygiene tasks, such as worktops, glass, fabrics or clothes, it can reduce or eliminate the need for detergents. For heavily encrusted dirt or limescale deposits, mechanical action or another type of product may be needed.
Ozonated water: a more sustainable cleaning option
Ozone is a very strong oxidant used in water disinfection. In the form of ozonated water, it allows effective cleaning with fewer conventional detergents and, when used correctly, safely for people, animals and the environment.
This technology is changing household and professional hygiene by replacing conventional detergents with a natural, sustainable and efficient alternative. Water rich in ozone and active oxygen is a clear commitment to sustainable cleaning and ecological hygiene, combining safety, sustainability and good hygiene performance in everyday life.
If you are looking for a more ecological way to care for your laundry at home, discover Filtrarte’s Bee Eco Cleaning 3.0 and talk to our team to find the most suitable solution.
References
- VELANO, H. E.; NASCIMENTO, L. C. do; BARROS, L. M. de; PANZERI, H. Avaliação in vitro da atividade antibacteriana da água ozonizada frente ao Staphylococcus aureus. Pesqui Odontol Bras, v.15, n.1, p.18-22, jan./mar. 2001. doi: 10.1590/S1517-74912001000100004
- Mascarenhas LAB, Dos Santos LMC, Oliveira FO, Rodrigues LAP, Neves PRF, Moreira GAF, Santos AAB, Lobato GM, Nascimento C, Gerhardt M, Machado BAS. Evaluation of the microbial reduction efficacy and perception of use of an ozonized water spray disinfection technology. Sci Rep. 2022 Jul 29;12(1):13019. doi: 10.1038/s41598-022-16953-2
- Santos, L. M. C. d., Silva, E. S. d., Oliveira, F. O., Rodrigues, L. d. A. P., Neves, P. R. F., Meira, C. S., Moreira, G. A. F., Lobato, G. M., Nascimento, C., Gerhardt, M., Lessa, A. S., Mascarenhas, L. A. B., & Machado, B. A. S. (2021). Ozonized Water in Microbial Control: Analysis of the Stability, In Vitro Biocidal Potential, and Cytotoxicity. Biology, 10(6), 525. doi: 10.3390/biology10060525
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Wastewater Technology Fact Sheet: Ozone Disinfection (EPA 832-F-99-063). 1999. https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2015-06/documents/ozon.pdf
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Ozone Generators that are Sold as Air Cleaners. 2026. https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/ozone-generators-are-sold-air-cleaners
- Agência Portuguesa do Ambiente (APA). Ozono (O3). Accessed September 2026. https://apambiente.pt/en/node/1024
- World Health Organization (WHO). Air quality, energy and health: Types of pollutants. Accessed September 2026. https://www.who.int/teams/environment-climate-change-and-health/air-quality-and-health/health-impacts/types-of-pollutants
- World Health Organization (WHO). Guidelines for drinking-water quality: fourth edition incorporating the first and second addenda. 2022. https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240045064
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). 21 CFR 173.368 Ozone. Code of Federal Regulations, 2024. https://www.govinfo.gov/app/details/CFR-2024-title21-vol3/CFR-2024-title21-vol3-sec173-368
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Chemical Disinfectants: Guideline for Disinfection and Sterilization in Healthcare Facilities (2008). 2023. https://www.cdc.gov/infection-control/hcp/disinfection-sterilization/chemical-disinfectants.html
By the Filtrarte Expert Team
The information in this article is not intended to recommend any treatment for symptoms or diseases. Consult your doctor for specialist advice.
