Disposing of Syringes Safely

Exposed needles are dangerous. If you don't have a puncture-resistant container, recap your needle after you use it. Don't recap needles used by other people.

To dispose of used syringes, put them in a container specially designed for them (a "sharps" container). If you do not have a sharps container:

1) put used syringes in a plastic bottle, such as a laundry detergent or bleach bottle; the bottle should be unbreakable and puncture-resistant;

2) close the screw-on top tightly and label your sealed container: "Infectious Waste";

3) don't use coffee cans; plastic lids can come off easily; don't use glass bottles which may break;

• Check on the laws of your community before you dispose of used syringes in your household trash.
• Do not put a plastic container with used syringes out with the recyclable plastics.
• Hospitals accept used syringes.
• Syringe exchange programs in New York State can dispose of your used syringes and give you new, sterile syringes