How to Dispose of Rechargeable Batteries

Rechargeable batteries are also common in the home. You’ll find them in cellphones, digital
cameras, power tools, laptops and other more powerful electronics in your home.

There are many different kinds of rechargeable batteries:

 Nickel metal hydride and nickel cadmium batteries are found in

electronics such as cordless power tools, digital cameras, two-way radios and
cordless phones.
 Lithium-ion batteries are found in most portable devices such as cellphones
and laptops.
 Small sealed lead acid batteries are less common in homes and are found
in emergency devices, emergency exit signs, security systems, mobility
scooters and other special-use items.
Can rechargeable batteries be thrown in the trash?
No, rechargeable batteries of any kind should not be placed in your trash can (or dumpster).
It is illegal in some states to do so because rechargeable batteries contain heavy metals
that can be hazardous to the environment.

Can rechargeable batteries be recycled?

Yes, rechargeable batteries can, and should be, recycled, usually at no cost to you.

Where to recycle rechargeable batteries:

Home improvement or office supply stores often accept these products for

recycling by hosting a drop box from an organization like Call2Recycle. Find a
drop box to recycle batteries near you.
 Find other recycling facilities using Earth911’s Recycling Search or calling
your local solid waste district or city hall.
Why Recycle Batteries?
“First, some batteries have potentially toxic metals in them such as cadmium, lead
and, historically, mercury. Diverting these metals from landfill and recycling them
instead is important to ensure that the metals don’t leak out of landfills and pollute
our drinking water. Second, most batteries can be recycled, which means potentially
valuable material, particularly metals, can be reclaimed from them. Recycling
batteries minimizes the need to mine virgin resources.”  Carl Smith | CEO &
President of Call2Recycle, Inc.

Preparing Your Batteries for Recycling

Once you find a way to recycle your old batteries, take a few minutes to prep your batteries
for safe and convenient recycling.
Prepping single-use batteries for recycling:

 Place a piece of non-conductive clear tape over the ends to prevent any
current transfer. You can also bag each battery individually instead of taping
the ends.
 Store the batteries in a plastic or cardboard container that doesn’t conduct
electricity in case there is a spark.
Prepping rechargeable batteries for recycling:

 Remove batteries from their electronics. Dead laptops must be recycled

separately from dead laptop batteries. This is not required for small
electronics like cellphones or iPods, which can be accepted by most battery
recyclers.
 Cover the terminals with non-conductive tape clear tape.
If you are mailing your batteries to a recycling facility, check for any additional safety steps
required for shipping.

Batteries and any other types of waste that could potentially contribute chemicals to the
environment should be handled with care, especially when it comes to disposal. If you have
other items to get rid of, take a look at the Reuse and Recycle section of our blog for
disposal options before tossing them in your dumpster.