Quick answer: Sort diabetic supplies into two piles. Sealed, unexpired test strips, sensors, pods, and pump supplies have cash value — sell or donate those. Opened, expired, or used items should be disposed of safely, with sharps like lancets and needles going into a proper sharps container, never loose in the trash.
Cleaning out a cabinet of diabetic supplies? Some of it is worth real money, and some of it needs careful disposal. Here’s how to handle each kind responsibly.
Step 1: Separate sellable from disposable
Start by splitting everything into two groups:
- Has value (sell or donate): sealed, unexpired test strips, CGM sensors, Omnipod pods, Medtronic supplies, and lancets
- Dispose safely: opened, expired, used, or damaged items
Not sure which pile something belongs in? Our guide to opened or expired strips explains the line, and you can always send a photo to check.
Step 2: Sell or donate what has value
Don’t throw away sealed, in-date supplies — they’re worth cash and someone needs them. You can sell them for same-day payment or donate them. This is especially worth doing when clearing out a large collection, such as after a loved one’s passing.
Step 3: Dispose of sharps the right way
Lancets and needles are “sharps” and require safe handling to protect sanitation workers and your household:
- Use an FDA-cleared sharps container, or a heavy-duty puncture-resistant plastic container with a tight lid as a backup
- Never put loose sharps in household trash or recycling
- Follow your community’s sharps disposal or take-back program — many pharmacies, clinics, and health departments offer one
Step 4: Handle expired strips and meds
Expired test strips can be discarded in regular trash once removed from any sharps. For leftover prescription medications like insulin, use a pharmacy or community medication take-back program rather than the trash or drain.
Before you toss anything: send a photo to 812-648-0149 or get a quick quote. You might be throwing away cash.
Step 5: Recycle the packaging
Empty paper boxes and many plastic components can be recycled — check your local guidelines for medical packaging. A little sorting keeps usable supplies in circulation, gets sharps handled safely, and keeps recyclable material out of the landfill.
This article is general guidance, not medical advice. Follow your local regulations for medical waste and sharps disposal.
Frequently asked questions
How do I dispose of lancets and needles?
Never put loose sharps in the trash. Use an FDA-cleared sharps container or a heavy-duty plastic container, and follow your community’s disposal program.
Which supplies should I sell instead of toss?
Sealed, unexpired test strips, CGM sensors, pods, and pump supplies have cash value — don’t throw those away. Send a photo first to check.
Can I recycle the packaging?
Often yes — paper boxes and many plastics are recyclable once emptied. Check local guidelines for medical packaging.