Absorbent Socks and Floating Oil Booms
When a drum tips or a hose fitting fails, absorbent socks and booms create instant barriers that stop spills from reaching drains, equipment, or waterways.
Whether you’re containing a workshop leak or adding essential components to your spill containment kit, having the right equipment on hand means a faster response and less damage. Browse our range of universal absorbent socks and more below and prevent what could be a quick cleanup from turning into a compliance headache.
The Right Absorbent Sock for Every Spill
Spillbase stocks a full range of absorbent socks and booms for containing and cleaning up liquid spills. Available in 1.2m and 3.0m lengths across three types.
Universal Absorbent Socks
Our grey universal absorbent socks handle both oil-based and water-based liquids, including coolants, brake fluid, paints, and mild chemicals. When you’re unsure what you might spill or are dealing with multiple liquid types, these are your all-purpose solution.
Oil Absorbent Socks
White-coloured oil absorbent socks repel water while soaking up hydrocarbons like oil, petrol, diesel, and fuel. This makes them ideal for workshops, boat bilges, fuel storage areas, and anywhere spills might occur in wet conditions.
For sites handling fuel regularly, pair your absorbent socks with a petrol fuel spill kit for complete spill response capability.
Chemical Absorbent Socks
Bright yellow for hazard recognition, chemical absorbent socks are built to handle acids, alkalis, and other aggressive substances. They’re essential for chemical storage areas, laboratories, and any facility handling hazardous liquids that would damage standard absorbents.
For larger spills, combine socks with universal absorbent pads to speed up the cleaning process.
Floating Oil Booms
When oil or fuel hits water, it spreads fast. Our floating oil booms clip together and deploy quickly to contain spills on ponds, drains, marinas, and waterways before they cause environmental damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much liquid does an absorbent sock absorb?
Depending on diameter and the liquid being absorbed, a 1.2m sock will typically absorb around 3-5 litres of most liquids, while a 3.0m sock will typically absorb around 8-12 litres. Oil absorbent socks work faster on thinner liquids like diesel and slower on heavy oils or greases.
What’s the difference between absorbent socks and floating oil booms?
Absorbent socks are flexible tubes designed for land-based spills; they conform to corners, wrap around machinery, and create barriers on solid surfaces.
Floating oil booms are larger in diameter, designed to float on water and contain hydrocarbon spills on ponds, drains, and waterways.
How do I dispose of used absorbent socks?
Used absorbent socks are typically classified as hazardous waste and should never go in general rubbish or down drains. Bag or drum them with a clear label identifying what they absorbed, store in a designated area away from drains and ignition sources, and arrange collection through a licensed hazardous waste contractor.
The specific disposal requirements vary by region; contact your local council for guidance in your area.
Control Spills Before They Become a Problem
Having the right universal absorbent socks for general leaks or specialised oil absorbent socks for hydrocarbon spills on-site isn’t just optional; it’s essential for compliance and protecting your people and environment. For a complete safety setup, these are often used in tandem with a spill deck pallet to ensure any leaks are captured before they spread.
Browse our complete range online or contact our team for advice on choosing the right products for your setup.