How to Recycle Ostomy Supplies
Medical devices and supplies for people with ostomies, including pouches, barriers, flanges, and accessories made from specialized medical plastics and adhesives. Used ostomy supplies require medical waste disposal, but unused, expired supplies can sometimes be donated to programs serving low-income patients. Proper disposal is crucial for dignity and public health.
- 1Used supplies must be treated as medical waste - never attempt to clean for recycling
- 2Unused supplies should be checked for expiration dates and sterility
- 3Remove personal information from any packaging or labels
- 4Sort unused supplies by type and brand for donation programs
- 5Package unused supplies carefully to maintain sterility where possible
- 6Document quantities and types for donation program requirements
- 7Store unused supplies in clean, dry conditions
- Ostomy supply donation programs (ConvaTec Ostomy Assistance Program)
- Medical waste disposal services
- Hospital medical waste programs
- United Ostomy Associations support programs
- International ostomy supply donation programs
- Medical equipment banks serving low-income patients
Used ostomy supplies are medical waste and must be disposed through proper medical waste channels. Only unused, unexpired supplies can be donated. Some manufacturers have take-back programs for unused supplies. Donation programs serve people without insurance coverage for these expensive medical necessities.
Ostomy supply waste is unavoidable for medical reasons, but donation of unused supplies prevents waste while serving people in need. Manufacturing impact is significant - 50-100 pounds of raw materials per year per ostomy patient. Proper medical waste disposal prevents contamination while recovering energy through incineration.
- Work with insurance to optimize supply quantities
- Participate in ostomy supply exchange programs
- Consider reusable ostomy accessories where appropriate
- Use supply management programs to reduce waste
Accepted
- Unused ostomy pouches and bags
- Unused skin barriers and flanges
- Unused ostomy accessories and supplies
- Unexpired ostomy care products
- Unused ostomy belt and support items
Not Accepted
- Used ostomy pouches or barriers (medical waste)
- Expired ostomy supplies
- Supplies with damaged packaging
- Custom-fitted items that cannot be reused
- Supplies contaminated with bodily fluids
Estimated value: $5-50+ donation value per unused supply kit
Manufacturer/Retail Take‑Back
- Medical adhesives and skin contact materials
- Potential biological contamination from use
- Specialized plastic materials
Can I donate ostomy supplies that I no longer need?
Yes, if they're unused and unexpired! Many programs serve people without insurance coverage for these expensive medical necessities. Contact ostomy support organizations for donation programs.
How should I dispose of used ostomy supplies?
Treat as medical waste. Many ostomy supplies can go in regular trash when properly sealed, but check local regulations. Never attempt to recycle used ostomy supplies.
Are there environmental alternatives to disposable ostomy supplies?
Currently no - ostomy supplies must be sterile and single-use for medical safety. Focus on donating unused supplies and working with insurance to optimize quantities.