In microbiology and medical waste management, swabs used in healthcare settings are typically considered as biomedical waste. Therefore, it is essential to dispose of them based on color-coded waste management practices. According to standard guidelines:
- Yellow Bag: This bag is designated for human anatomical waste, microbiology waste (including swabs), soiled waste, expired or discarded medicines, and other similar materials. It ensures proper incineration or deep burial without harm to human health or the environment.
- Red Bag: Used for contaminated waste (recyclable), such as intravenous tubing, blood bags, syringes (without needles), and gloves.
- White Bag: Typically used for waste sharps including metals and any other sharp waste not contaminated with potent pathogens.
- Blue Bag: Used for glassware and discarded medicines.
Since swabs fall under microbiological waste, they should be discarded into the yellow bag.