Used syringes, pen needles and lancets are called sharps. Thrown loose into the trash, they can injure family members, sanitation workers and pets. Disposing of them safely takes only a few habits.
Step 1: Put sharps in a container right after use
Drop the used syringe, pen needle or lancet into a sharps container immediately. Do not try to bend, break or recap needles, and never leave them loose on a counter or in a bag.
Step 2: Use the right container
The best choice is an FDA-cleared sharps container, sold at pharmacies and online. If you do not have one, the FDA says a heavy-duty plastic household container can be used, as long as it:
- is made of thick plastic, like a laundry detergent bottle;
- stays upright and stable;
- does not leak and resists puncture;
- has a tight, screw-on lid that needles cannot poke through.
Label it clearly, for example: Sharps – do not recycle.
Step 3: Do not overfill
Stop filling the container when it is about three-quarters full. Close the lid tightly, and tape it shut if your local rules ask you to.
Step 4: Dispose of the full container the way your area requires
Rules differ by state and city. Common options include:
- Drop-off sites such as pharmacies, hospitals, clinics or household hazardous waste sites;
- Mail-back programs, where you mail a full, approved container for disposal;
- Household trash, allowed in some areas only when sharps are in a sealed, labeled container.
Search “sharps disposal” with your city or ZIP code, or ask your pharmacist or local waste department what applies to you.
What not to do
- Never put sharps or sharps containers in the recycling bin.
- Never flush needles down the toilet.
- Never reuse syringes, pen needles or lancets; they are sterile and single-use.
- Never share syringes or pen needles, even with family.
Traveling with sharps
Bring a small travel sharps container so you are never tempted to throw needles away loose. Carry your insulin and supplies in your hand luggage, keep them in their original labeled packaging, and check your airline and the TSA guidelines before you fly.
Restock your supplies
Using a new needle every time is the safest habit. Shop EasyTouch insulin syringes, pen needles and twist lancets, 100 per box, with free standard shipping on orders of $49 or more. You can also subscribe and save so you never run out.
This article is general information. Follow your local rules for sharps disposal and your healthcare provider's advice.
