Skip to main content

💉 FAQ on Diabetic Patients Injector Disposal

Learn how diabetic patients can safely and legally dispose of sharps at home using FDA-cleared, mail-back containers from PureWay.

Updated over 3 months ago

🔹 General Definitions & Concepts

What are sharps?

"Sharps" refer to any medical device with a sharp point or edge that can puncture the skin. For diabetic patients, this includes:

  • Insulin syringes

  • Pen needles

  • Lancets

  • Continuous glucose monitor (CGM) sensors with needles

  • Infusion sets

Why do sharps need special disposal?

  • Sharps need special disposal since used sharps can carry bloodborne pathogens such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, or HIV.

  • Improper disposal poses a risk of needle-stick injuries to family, sanitation workers, or the public.

Is it illegal to throw used needles in the trash?

  • In many states, yes, it's illegal to throw used needles in the trash.

  • Disposal laws vary by jurisdiction, but nearly all prohibit disposing of loose sharps in household trash or recycling. Improper disposal can result in fines and health risks.

  • ➡️ Reference: PureWay State-by-State Guide

🔹 Safe Disposal Options For Diabetic Patients

What is the safest and easiest way to dispose of sharps at home?

The safest and most compliant method is using a PureWay Sharps Disposal by Mail System, which includes:

  • FDA-cleared sharps container

  • Prepaid return box with shipping label

  • Safe mail-back to a licensed disposal facility

  • Certificate of destruction for compliance documentation

How does the PureWay Mail-Back Sharps System work?

Here's how the PureWay mail-back sharps system works:

  1. Order a mail-back container from PureWay.com.

  2. Place used sharps in the provided container.

  3. Seal and package using the prepaid USPS box.

  4. Drop it off at any USPS mailbox or schedule a pickup.

  5. Receive confirmation of compliant disposal.

Can I return my full sharps container using USPS?

Yes, you can return your full sharps container using USPS. PureWay’s sharps mail-back systems are fully approved under USPS Regulation UN3291 for the mailing of regulated medical waste.

What sizes of sharps mail-back systems are available?

PureWay offers sharps mail-back systems in various sizes:

  • 1-quart (light/occasional use)

  • 1.2-gallon (moderate use)

  • 3-gallon (higher volume or household with multiple users)

  • 18-gallon (ideal for clinics or long-term storage)

How do I choose the right size of sharps mail-back systems?

You can choose the right size of sharps mail-back systems by estimating your use of needles or lancets:

  • 1-quart: 1–2 months of daily injections

  • 1.2-gallon: 2–4 months of use

  • 3-gallon: Up to 6 months

  • 18-gallon: Medical office or long-term disposal

Do I have to sign a contract or subscription?

You can order as-needed or set up recurring shipments if desired, without having to sign a contract or purchase a subscription.

🔹 Compliance & Safety Questions

Is this disposal method compliant with federal and state laws?

Yes, PureWay’s mail-back program complies with:

  • USPS regulations (UN3291)

  • DOT requirements for medical waste transport

  • EPA and OSHA guidelines

  • State-specific laws (See State-by-State Guide)

Is it safe to keep a sharps container at home?

Yes, it's safe to keep a sharps container at home because PureWay containers are:

  • Leak-resistant

  • Puncture-resistant

  • Child-resistant lids. However, keep out sharps container out of reach of children and pets.

What should I do if my container is full?

If your container is full, do not overfill. When the container is ¾ full:

  • Seal it securely.

  • Use the prepaid box to return it.

  • Drop off at USPS or schedule a pickup.

Can I use a household container instead of a sharps container?

  • Temporarily, you can use a strong, puncture-resistant container (like a laundry detergent bottle) instead of a sharps container only if permitted by your local health department.

  • However, for mailing or guaranteed compliance, only FDA-cleared sharps containers like those from PureWay can be used.

🔹 Ordering & Customer Support

Where can I buy a PureWay Sharps Mail-Back Kit?

You can purchase a PureWay Sharps Mail-Back Kit directly from:🔗 https://www.pureway.com/mail-back-sharps-disposal

Can I talk to someone if I need help ordering?

Yes, PureWay customer service is available to assist with product selection or disposal questions via:

🔹 Additional FAQs

Can I bring my sharps to a pharmacy or clinic for disposal instead?

  • Some states or counties allow bringing sharps to a pharmacy or clinic for disposal, but not all locations accept sharps.

  • Mail-back systems like PureWay’s are often the most convenient and widely accepted option.

Can I use PureWay's services if I live in California / New York / Florida / etc.?

  • Yes, PureWay offers solutions that meet or exceed requirements in all 50 states and U.S. territories.

  • Check your state here: 👉 PureWay State Compliance Map.

Is PureWay a good option for elderly or mobility-impaired patients?

  • Absolutely, PureWay is a great option for elderly or mobility-impaired patients, as there’s no need to leave home to use our services.

  • Just schedule a USPS pickup or have a caregiver drop off the package.

Where can I throw away used needles?

You should never throw used needles in the trash. Instead, use a mail-back sharps container like PureWay’s for safe, legal disposal.

Can I mail my used needles?

Yes, if you use an approved sharps mail-back system like the ones offered by PureWay, you can mail your used needles.

Can I just use a plastic bottle for mail-back?

For mail-back, plastic bottles are not accepted, only FDA-cleared containers like PureWay’s are allowed.

Related Articles
🚫 Disposing of Non-PureWay Sharps Containers
📏 2 Gallon PureWay Sharps Disposal By Mail System
🧬 How to Dispose of GLP-1 Injectors
Sharps Disposal Support: Patient Guidance Document
Lost box for returning PureWay Sharps Container
Did this answer your question?