Abstract: A plasma device applies cold atmospheric plasma to a surface to be treated, in particular to textiles, leather and/or plastic fibers. An actuator activates a plasma source, provided that a distance between the plasma source and the surface to be treated is less than a predetermined distance. The actuator has an adjustable and pre-loaded actuator element with at least one activation element and has a recording apparatus that records the position of the actuator element at least when the distance between the plasma source and the surface to be treated is less than the predetermined distance. The plasma device makes it possible to avoid risks owing to incorrect operation by the client and to avoid emissions, since the plasma source is activated only when the distance from the item to be treated (e.g., clothing to be cleaned) is less than the predetermined threshold distance.