Sterilization Equipment Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Product (Heat Sterilizers, Low-temperature Sterilizers, Sterile Membrane Filters, Radiation Sterilization Devices), By Region, 2025 - 2030

Sterilization Equipment Market Size & Trends

The global sterilization equipment market size was estimated at USD 8.45 billion in 2024 and is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 10.8% from 2025 to 2030. The increasing incidence of healthcare-acquired infections (HAIs) is expected to drive the market. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 1 in 10 patients, on average, experiences HAIs. However, this rate can be significantly higher in low- and middle-income countries and among high-risk groups, such as patients in intensive care units. Research conducted by Balasubramanian et al. in 2023 estimates that there are around 136 million cases of healthcare-associated antibiotic-resistant infections globally each year. Further, the same report also suggests that out of every 100 patients in acute-care hospitals, seven in high-income countries and 15 in low- and middle-income countries are most likely to acquire at least one healthcare-associated infection (HAI) during their hospital stay.

Furthermore, an increase in the number of surgical procedures in hospitals and clinics is a major factor contributing to market growth. A variety of surgical procedures, such as orthopedic, cardiovascular, and cosmetic surgeries, are being carried out. For instance, according to a study published by the National Library of Medicine in July 2020, around 310 million major surgical procedures are performed annually, out of which 40 to 50 million are conducted in the U.S. and 20 million in Europe.

Moreover, there is a significant increase in cosmetic surgical procedures. According to the Aesthetic Society, the total number of cosmetic surgical procedures increased by 2.9% from 2022 to 2023 and 10.2% from 2019 to 2023. Breast augmentation, breast lifts, tummy tucks, liposuction, and eyelid surgery have consistently remained the most common procedures. Surgical instruments such as endoscopes are commonly used in cosmetic surgeries, such as breast augmentation and brow lifts, and medical washer disinfectors are utilized for disinfecting surgical instruments like endoscopes. Therefore, a significant increase in cosmetic procedures is expected to drive the demand for medical washer-disinfectors in the coming years.

Sterilization equipment is required to sterilize and clean different equipment used in hospitals as they help reduce the spread of infections and diseases. An increase in the incidence of chronic diseases, such as diabetes, cancer, and other autoimmune diseases, is anticipated to boost the sterilization equipment demand. Antimicrobial resistance, increased adoption of unhealthy & sedentary lifestyles, smoking, and alcohol consumption are some of the major factors contributing to the growing prevalence of chronic diseases.

The rising prevalence of chronic conditions has significantly increased the hospital admission rate. Blankets, sterile fluids, and equipment are essential requirements in hospitals & clinics. Thus, in such cases, sterilization equipment efficiently serves the purpose, as it reduces the risk of infection transmission among patients and improves care delivery. Thus, the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases is expected to positively impact the market during the forecast period. According to a WHO report, approximately 422 million individuals around the globe are affected by diabetes, with a significant portion residing in low- and middle-income countries. Each year, the condition is responsible for about 1.5 million deaths directly linked to its complications. Further, research from the National Council on Aging (NCOA) suggests that around 95% of adults aged 60 and older suffer from at least one chronic condition, with nearly 80% experiencing two or more chronic conditions.

Market Concentration & Characteristics

The market growth stage is high, and the pace of growth is accelerating. The market is characterized by a high degree of growth due to the increasing prevalence of HAIs, the rising number of surgical procedures, the expanding patient population, rising life expectancy, and the unmet need for sterilization of complex substances. These factors propel scientific advancements and encourage collaboration between researchers, medical professionals, and technology developers.

The market is experiencing high levels of innovation driven by continuous advancements in medical technologies. These innovations are improving sterilization equipment's precision, reliability, and efficiency.In addition, advancements in sterilization methods such as low-temperature plasma, vaporized hydrogen peroxide, and ultraviolet (UV) light sterilization are gaining traction. These technologies offer more effective solutions for sensitive medical equipment and pharmaceuticals, ensuring thorough disinfection without damaging materials. Furthermore, eco-friendly sterilization processes that minimize environmental impact are becoming increasingly popular.

Regulatory bodies play a critical role in shaping market growth. Compliance with safety and performance standards is essential for product approvals. As regulations evolve to ensure better patient outcomes, companies focus on meeting these stringent requirements to maintain market access and build trust with healthcare providers. For instance, in January 2024, The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that it considers vaporized hydrogen peroxide (VHP) as an established sterilization method for medical devices because of its proven record of safety and effectiveness. The FDA has updated its final guidance on the Submission and Review of Sterility Information in Premarket Notification (510(k)) submissions for devices labeled as sterile, now including VHP as an example of an Established Category A sterilization method.

The market is poised to experience robust mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activity as companies look to expand their product portfolios and strengthen their competitive positioning. For instance, in March 2024, BioMedical Solutions announced its successful acquisition of the assets of Alfa Medical Equipment, known as Sterilizers.com. This strategic acquisition follows BioMedical Solutions’ recent purchase of Booth Medical Equipment and represents a significant milestone in the company’s growth. By integrating Sterilizers.com into its operations, BioMedical Solutions enhances its market position and broadens its capacity to meet a wide range of customer needs.

Emerging substitutes and alternative monitoring technologies present challenges and opportunities for the market. Companies must continuously innovate to retain their market share and demonstrate the unique advantages of their offerings compared to these alternatives.

The global market is expanding across various regions, driven by the increased adoption of advanced surgery monitoring techniques. While mature markets in North America and Europe continue to dominate, emerging markets in Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East show considerable growth potential due to rising healthcare investments and greater awareness of HAIs and patient safety.

Product Insights

The low-temperature sterilizerssegment held the largest market share of around 32.43% in 2024. Low-temperature sterilization methods, such as vaporized hydrogen peroxide (VHP), ethylene oxide (EtO), and peracetic acid, are ideal for sterilizing heat-sensitive medical devices and materials, including plastics and delicate instruments. This ability to effectively sterilize a wide variety of items makes these methods essential in many healthcare settings. Further, as the demand for minimally invasive surgical procedures and advanced medical devices increases, the need for sterilization methods that can safely process these items without damaging them is also rising. Low-temperature sterilizers are increasingly utilized in hospitals and clinics as they meet these specific needs.

The low-temperature sterilizers segment is expected to grow at the highest CAGR of 10.98% during the forecast period due to increasing demand for heat-sensitive devices and rising awareness of infection control. Further, growing product approvals and launches are expected to contribute to segment growth. For instance, in August 2024, Mudanjiang Plasma Physics Application Technology Co., Ltd. announced that CASP had successfully obtained CE certification for its agent in Hydrogen Peroxide Low-Temperature Plasma Sterilizers. This significant achievement highlights our unwavering commitment to maintaining medical device sterilization's highest quality and safety standards. Further, in June 2024, Getinge introduced the Poladus 150, its newest advancement in low-temperature sterilization, specifically designed for heat-sensitive surgical instruments. Featuring advanced cross-contamination barrier technology, the Poladus 150 is instrumental in reducing the risk of healthcare-associated infections (HCAIs). 

Regional Insights

North America sterilization equipment market dominated with a share of 35.43% in 2024. The increasing prevalence of chronic diseases, such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes, has significantly increased the hospital admission rate in North America. As per a report by the National Association of Chronic Diseases Directors published in April 2022, 60% of adult Americans have at least one chronic disease. Thus, the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases is expected to drive market growth in North America during the forecast period. The growing geriatric population, along with increasing life expectancy, led to a larger number of patients undergoing surgeries. Thus, the increasing geriatric population and rising number of surgeries are expected to drive market growth in this region.

U.S. Sterilization Equipment Market Trends

The U.S. sterilization equipment market held a significant share of the market in 2024. The U.S. market is mainly driven by factors such as an increase in HAIs and the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases. For instance, as per a report by the CDC published in December 2022, 6 in 10 adults in the U.S. have a chronic disease, and 4 in 10 have two or more chronic diseases, which is driving market growth in the U.S. Moreover, as per a report by Cleveland Clinic in June 2021, every day, 1 out of 25 patients in the U.S. are infected by an HAI. Therefore, the market is anticipated to grow significantly over the forecast period. Some of the companies operating in the U.S. market are STERIS, ASP (Fortive Corporation), 3M, and Stryker. These companies offer a wide range of products and compete based on factors such as product quality, innovation, pricing, and distribution networks.

The Canada sterilization equipment market is expected to grow significantly over the forecast period due to the increasing number of surgeries. For instance, according to the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), around 383,717 surgeries were performed in Canada in 2021. Proper maintenance of hygiene before a surgical procedure is necessary; thus, usage of properly sterilized medical devices & equipment is highly recommended by doctors. Hence, product demand is expected to increase. The growing incidence of HAIs is anticipated to boost the demand for sterilization equipment in Canada. For instance, as per a report by the Public Health Agency of Canada (modified in August 2022), Canadian hospitals estimated that 7.9% of patients had at least one HAI. These factors are expected to positively impact market growth over the forecast period.

Europe Sterilization Equipment Market Trends

The Europe sterilization equipment market is expected to grow at a significant CAGR over the forecast period due to the increasing number of surgeries and increasing incidence of HAIs. For instance, according to the European Centre for Disease Control (ECDC) estimates in May 2023, every year, around 3.1 million to 4.6 million people acquire HAIs in Europe. Major market players are undertaking various initiatives related to sterilization equipment for medical devices, which is expected to boost the market growth. In addition, advances in sterilization technologies, such as low-temperature sterilization methods and automation features, contribute to increased adoption. These factors are expected to drive market growth.

The UK sterilization equipment market is likely to show significant growth. The increasing incidence of HAIs and the growing prevalence of chronic diseases are among the factors expected to positively impact the market over the forecast period. For instance, according to the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), in January 2021, around 300,000 patients in England suffered from HAIs every year. Moreover, the increase in the prevalence of chronic diseases is positively influencing market growth. For instance, according to the European Commission, cardiovascular disease is the biggest cause of death in the UK. Moreover, the mortality rate due to Alzheimer’s disease & stroke is increasing. Thus, many opt for invasive surgery, indirectly contributing to market growth.

The sterilization equipment market in Germany is expected to witness moderate growth over the forecast period. According to Expatica, there are approximately 2,000 hospitals in Germany, including approximately 30 German university hospitals. Hospitals need to sterilize various medical devices & equipment used during surgeries or hospital admissions. Thus, increasing number of hospitals and rising number of surgical procedures are among the factors expected to boost the demand for sterilization equipment in Germany.

Asia Pacific Sterilization Equipment Market Trends

The sterilization equipment market in Asia Pacific is driven primarily by China and Japan. This can be attributed to the local presence of major market players and the increasing incidence of HAIs & chronic diseases are major factors expected to drive market growth over the forecast period. In addition, growing awareness about new technologies for sterilizing equipment is likely to positively impact market growth. The rising prevalence of chronic diseases and technological advancements in sterilization equipment are anticipated to drive the APAC market. For instance, according to a report by the Australian Bureau of Statistics published in March 2022, about 46.6% (11.6 million) of the Australian population had at least one chronic condition. These factors are expected to propel the region over the forecast period.

China sterilization equipment market is expected to grow over the forecast period due to the increasing usage of sterilizing equipment for sterilizing medical devices, equipment, and other products. This trend is driven by the growing concern for safety and hygiene in the healthcare industry, leading to increased demand for sterilization equipment. In addition, increased spending on healthcare is expected to boost the demand for sterilization equipment in China during the forecast period. For instance, as per The State Council of the People’s Republic of China, the total expenditure on health increased by 15.2% in 2020 from 2019. In addition, WHO estimated that by 2040, China will have a population of 402 million who are aged above 60, i.e., 28% of its total population. With such an increase in the geriatric population, the market for sterilization equipment is expected to grow significantly.

Latin America Sterilization Equipment Market Trends

The sterilization equipment market in Latin Americais experiencing significant growth. One of the major factors driving the market is the increasing incidence of chronic diseases, such as cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. These diseases can lead to an increase in hospital admissions and medical facility usage, thus increasing the demand for sterilization equipment.

Middle East And Africa (MEA) Sterilization Equipment Market Trends

Thesterilization equipment market in MEAis experiencing growth driven by growing awareness about sterilization equipment, and the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases is expected to drive the market over the forecast period. In addition, increasing healthcare expenditure by governments of MEA countries is expected to drive the entry of several major players in these markets, which is anticipated to fuel global market growth.

Saudi Arabia sterilization equipment market is driven by the rising prevalence of chronic diseases. Rising healthcare expenditures are among the factors expected to boost market demand. For instance, according to a study published by FIND, a nonprofit organization working to develop, evaluate, and deliver high-quality affordable diagnostics, diabetes (6%) and heart disease (5%) are the top causes of death in South Africa.

Key Sterilization Equipment Company Insights

The intensifying competition is leading to rapid technological advancements, and companies are constantly working to improve their products with a strong focus on research and development. Factors such as investments in R&D, compliance with regulatory policies, and technological advancements are constantly driving the introduction of novel techniques. In addition, market players are adopting strategies such as mergers & acquisitions, partnerships, product launches, and innovations to strengthen their foothold in the market. These advancements in the market are anticipated to boost the market growth over the forecast period.

Recent Developments

• In October 2024, Advanced Sterilization Products (ASP), one of the leading global providers in infection prevention, announced a major expansion of its Sterilization Monitoring portfolio, introducing new Steam Monitoring products. These innovations will assist Sterile Processing departments in healthcare facilities in achieving greater efficiency and confidence in verifying sterility.

• In June 2024, Getinge introduced the Poladus 150, its newest innovation in low-temperature sterilization tailored for heat-sensitive surgical instruments. Featuring advanced cross-contamination barrier technology, the Poladus 150 is essential in preventing healthcare-associated infections (HCAIs).

• In May 2024, MATACHANA obtained MDR certification for its extensive range of steam and low-temperature sterilizers.

• In January 2024, The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced that it considers vaporized hydrogen peroxide (VHP) as an established sterilization method for medical devices, acknowledging its long-standing safety and effectiveness. The FDA has revised the final guidance document titled "Submission and Review of Sterility Information in Premarket Notification (510(k)) Submissions for Devices Labeled as Sterile" to include VHP as an example of an Established Category A sterilization method.

Sterilization Equipment Market Report Scope

Global Sterilization Equipment Market Report Segmentation

This report forecasts revenue growth and provides an analysis of the latest trends in each of the sub-segments from 2018 to 2030. For this study, Grand View Research has segmented the global sterilization equipment market report based on product and region:

• Product Outlook (Revenue USD Million; 2018 - 2030)

  • Heat Sterilizers

    • Depyrogenation Oven

    • Steam Autoclaves

  • Low-temperature Sterilizers

    • Ethylene Oxide Sterilizers

    • Hydrogen Peroxide Sterilizers

    • Others

  • Sterile Membrane Filters

  • Radiation Sterilization Devices

    • Electron Beams

    • Gamma Rays

    • Others

• Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • North America

    • U.S.

    • Canada

    • Mexico

  • Europe

    • Germany

    • UK

    • France

    • Italy

    • Spain

    • Norway

    • Denmark

    • Sweden

  • Asia Pacific

    • Japan

    • China

    • India

    • Australia

    • South Korea

    • Thailand

  • Latin America

    • Brazil

    • Argentina

  • Middle East and Africa (MEA)

    • South Africa

    • Saudi Arabia

    • UAE

    • Kuwait