Cleaning up after you've injected

Step 1

When you have finished injecting your hit, dispose of your needle in a cin bin (sometimes called an incineration bin or sharps bin).

You can get a cin bin for free from a needle and syringe service.

If you don’t have one, you can use something like a strong plastic bottle with a lid.

Never reuse a needle or syringe unless it’s an emergency.

It’s always best to make sure you have enough new equipment from your local needle and syringe service.

But if you do need to reuse a needle or syringe, make sure that you clean it carefully with water and bleach before and after you use.

Watch a video: Guide to cleaning a syringe

Step 2

Throw away any used swabs, filters or opened water ampoules, as these can all contain bacteria.

Step 3

If you used a disposable surface to prepare your hit, throw this away too.

Step 4

Wipe down the surface of your injecting space using soapy water if possible. If you don’t have soap and water, you can use alcohol swabs or hand sanitiser.

Step 5

Wash your hands.