Autoclave sterilization uses high temperature (water steam) and time. Dry sterilization requires only high temperature and time. Lastly, medical waste can be sterilized with some chemicals, such as sodium hypochlorite (bleach). The choice depends on numerous factors.

Sterilization requires a minimum of 121°C (250 °F) for 15 minutes or 134°C (273°F) for 3 min. Other time/temperature combinations can also be effective.

For most medical waste, the risk of contamination is too high for recycling to be an option. Some materials, such as paper and plastic packaging, can be recycled, if a proper recycling system is implemented on a national and facility level.

The main reason that medical waste is incinerated is that it completely eliminates all pathogens, thus erasing the risk of contamination. Moreover, incineration significantly reduces volume of the waste. However, improper incineration can create negative environmental and health effects.

An autoclave is a large container (usually stainless steel) that sterilizes medical waste with high pressure and steam. The process kills off any microorganisms and the end result is sterile municipal waste, which can then be disposed off at the landfill or incinerator.