Needles & Sharps Are Hazardous Waste
Needles and sharps are hazardous waste and need to be disposed of carefully in order to avoid injuring sanitation workers and others. Find out what to do with needles and sharps.
Medication Is Hazardous Waste
Medicine and prescription drugs are hazardous and need to be disposed of carefully to avoid hurting others or polluting our water supply. Find out what to do with expired or unwanted medication.
Electric Items Are E-Waste
Anything powered by batteries or electricity, such as an electric wheelchair, is considered e-waste. Find out how to dispose of e-waste.
Return to Medical Provider
Many items of medical equipment can be returned to the doctor, clinic or hospital that provided them to you. Call your medical provider to see if you can return any medical equipment that is no longer needed.
Dispose of Metal Equipment as Scrap Metal
Non-electronic equipment that is primarily metal can be recycled with scrap metal. Find out how to dispose of scrap metal.
Doesn’t Fit in Your Garbage?
Any items that do not fit in your garbage need to be disposed of properly. Find out what to do with bulky items.
Alternative Ways to Recycle
Donate Unused Diabetes Equipment
Unused insulin pumps, test strips and glucose meters can be donated to CR3 Diabetes, an organization that helps people with diabetes get the essential supplies they need. Find out what items they accept and how to donate them.
Donate Unwanted Medical Equipment
If you have medical equipment that’s in usable condition, consider donating it or giving it away. Charitable organizations such as Little Wins, AFCA and MedShare collect usable medical equipment for those in need — visit the American College of Surgeons or Med-Eq to find other nonprofits in need of equipment donations.
Ways to Reduce
Buy Used Equipment
Consider buying used medical equipment instead of new equipment if it’s available and meets your needs. It’s a more eco-friendly choice and can also save you money.
Sell Used Wheelchairs, Walkers & Crutches
Sell or give away used wheelchairs, walkers and crutches. These items stay useful for a long time. It’s also easier to give away bulky items than try to dispose of them yourself.
