Spill kits are available as general purpose kits, hydrocarbon specific kits and acid emulsion kits, with each having its own application. General purpose kits will absorb both water and oils. They are useful in workshops, garages and so forth.

Hydrocarbon specific kits will soak up oil, but not water making them ideal in marine applications and where there is a lot of water. Acid emulsion kits are specially treated to withstand powerful and hazardous chemicals. These kits can be used for both oil and water.