Diabetes test strips are essential for managing blood sugar levels, but did you know that improper storage can affect their accuracy and shelf life? Whether you use them yourself or plan to sell your unused test strips, understanding their lifespan and how to store them correctly is crucial.
At Sell Your Test Strips, we help people turn their extra, unused test strips into cash while ensuring these medical supplies remain safe and effective for others. In this guide, we’ll cover how long diabetes test strips last, the best ways to store them, and how to sell them safely.
Understanding the Lifespan of Diabetes Test Strips
Do Diabetes Test Strips Expire?
Yes! Every test strip box comes with an expiration date, usually printed on the side or bottom. After this date, the strips may not provide accurate readings, which can be dangerous for people managing diabetes.
How Long Do Test Strips Last?
Most diabetes test strips have a shelf life of 1-2 years from the manufacturing date. However, once the bottle or package is opened, their accuracy can begin to decline faster due to exposure to air, moisture, and temperature changes.
What Happens If You Use Expired Test Strips?
Using expired test strips can result in:
⚠️ Inaccurate blood sugar readings
⚠️ Potential health risks due to incorrect insulin dosing
⚠️ Errors on your glucose meter, leading to frustration and wasted strips
To ensure safety, it’s best to use test strips before they expire or sell them while they still have plenty of time left.
Best Practices for Storing Diabetes Test Strips
Proper storage extends the shelf life of diabetes test strips and maintains their accuracy. Follow these tips:
✅ Keep Them in a Cool, Dry Place – Store test strips in a temperature-controlled environment. Avoid extreme heat or cold, as both can degrade the strips.
✅ Avoid Humidity – Never store test strips in bathrooms or near sinks, where moisture can seep in and affect their effectiveness.
✅ Keep the Packaging Sealed – Do not open the box or vial until you are ready to use them. If the container is open, close it tightly after each use.
✅ Store Away from Direct Sunlight – Sun exposure can weaken the chemical sensors inside test strips, causing them to become unreliable.
✅ Check Expiration Dates Regularly – Stay aware of upcoming expiration dates so you can use or sell the strips before they become unusable.
How to Sell Your Diabetes Test Strips Safely
If you have extra, unopened test strips, selling them is a great way to help others in need and earn extra cash. Here’s how to do it safely:
1. Check If Your Test Strips Qualify
Most test strip buyback companies accept:
✔ Unopened and factory-sealed boxes
✔ Strips with at least 6 months before expiration
✔ Popular brands like Accu-Chek, OneTouch, FreeStyle, and Contour
❌ Test strips from Medicare or Medicaid cannot be resold due to federal regulations
2. Get a Free Quote
Visit Sell Your Test Strips and enter the details of your test strips to receive an instant price estimate.
3. Package and Ship Securely
📦 Use a sturdy box to prevent damage during shipping
📑 Attach the free shipping label provided by the buyer
📮 Drop off your package at the nearest post office
4. Get Paid Quickly
Once your test strips arrive and are inspected, you’ll receive payment via PayPal, Zelle, or check – often within 24 hours!
Why Sell Your Test Strips?
✔ Help Others – Many people with diabetes struggle to afford test strips. Selling yours helps make them available at a lower cost.
✔ Earn Extra Cash – Instead of letting unused test strips expire, turn them into money.
✔ Reduce Medical Waste – Prevent perfectly good medical supplies from being thrown away.
Final Thoughts
Properly storing your diabetes test strips ensures their accuracy and extends their shelf life. If you have extra, unused strips, selling them is a smart, responsible, and profitable choice.