Compare sharps bin types and sizes for needles, syringes and injection pens. Learn how to choose, fill, seal and dispose of a sharps bin safely in the UK.
Choosing the Right Sharps Bin
Sharps containers come in various sizes to suit different needs. Here is a guide to help you choose the right one.
Travel Bins (0.5L - 1L)
Ideal for carrying in a handbag, rucksack, or car. Perfect for those who inject away from home (insulin, EpiPens).
Standard Home Bins (2L - 3L)
The most common size for home use. Suitable for daily insulin injectors. Typically lasts 2-3 months.
Large Home Bins (5L - 7L)
Best for households with multiple sharps users or those who inject frequently. Can last several months.
How to Get a Free Sharps Bin
- Ask your GP - they can prescribe sharps bins on the NHS
- Many pharmacies provide them free of charge
- Some councils supply them as part of clinical waste collection
Colour Coding
Yellow lid with red body: standard sharps container for needles and syringes. Orange lid: for sharps contaminated with medicines (cytotoxic/cytostatic).
