Household Sharps Management

There are several ways to safely dispose of used household sharps.
In most states, the easiest is to dispose them in the regular household trash. It’s as simple as 1-2-3:

1

Place used household sharps in a strong, plastic container, like a laundry detergent or bleach bottle.

2

When the container is 75% full, seal it tightly with duct tape and label it “DO NOT RECYCLE.”

3

Place the container in regular household trash.

People in most areas of the United States can follow this approach. Click here to get your local disposal rules or locate places to drop off used household sharps safely in your area.

The FDA recommends people use a strong, plastic container like a laundry detergent or bleach bottle. People can purchase an FDA-cleared household sharps container from a pharmacy or medical supply company. Dispose of that container after consulting local regulations.

Some pharmaceutical and medical device companies offer free mail-back programs for specific products that use sharps. Check the company’s website for information about disposing products or medication.

Important Note

  • Do not throw used household sharps in recycling.
  • Never flush household sharps down the toilet.
  • Do not throw loose needles and household sharps in the trash before they are placed in a strong, plastic container.