With so many batteries powering the gadgets in our homes and pockets, the question that eventually comes around is what to do when those batteries run out of juice?
While it may be tempting to toss dead batteries into the trash, doing so can have repercussions for your health and the environment, says Jason Gates, CEO of Compology, a technology company focused on building sustainable waste and recycling systems.
According to the California Department of Resources Recycling, almost 4 billion disposable batteries get shipped to the US every year. A majority of them end up in landfills, says Gates, adding "once batteries enter a landfill, they can rust and decay over time, allowing heavy metals from inside to leak out into the soil and enter our water supply."
Beyond the environmental impact, improperly disposed of batteries pose a safety hazard. Some types, particularly lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries, can cause fires during transport or at recycling centers.
To dispose of batteries safely, you'll need to plan ahead and keep them stored safely until you can transport them to a proper recycling facility. Here's everything you need to know.
Important: If you notice white powder residue on your battery, this means it's leaking. The white color results from chemicals reacting with oxygen. "Once this happens, the battery is unusable and should be disposed of immediately," says Gates.
Disposing of single-use batteries
When it comes to getting rid of single-use batteries, the type of battery makes a difference.
Common everyday alkaline batteries — including AAs, Ds, 9-volts, and others — are deemed safe to be thrown away in household trash. But just because you can, doesn't mean you should. Gates still advises to recycle batteries whenever possible.
All other non-rechargeable batteries, including lithium single-use batteries, as well as button cell watch batteries, contain hazardous heavy metals and toxic chemicals, and cannot be disposed of in ordinary trash or your curbside recycling program.
The best way to dispose of used single-use batteries is to collect them in a bin until you're ready to take them to a proper disposal facility. For extra precaution, tape the terminal ends of the batteries, and store them in a plastic or cardboard container.
Important: Regulations about battery disposal vary from city to city, but all states except California allow you by law to throw single-use batteries in the trash. However, even if you live outside the Golden State, you should recycle batteries whenever possible, says Gates.
All rechargeable batteries should be recycled
In most states in the US, it is illegal to throw away rechargeable batteries in the trash or curbside recycling bin. And while rechargeable batteries are recyclable, they must be taken to a separate recycling center or collection point that can take them.
In general, using rechargeable batteries over single-use disposable batteries reduces waste, making them a more economical and environmentally friendly choice.
Common rechargeable batteries include:
| Rechargable battery type | Common uses |
| Nickel-cadmium (NiCd) | Used in cordless power tools, video cameras, and cordless phones. |
| Lithium-ion (Li-ion) | Used in digital cameras, older generation cell phones, kid's toys, laptops, and more. |
| Nickel-metal hydrid (NiMH) | Used in cell phones, digital cameras, cordless power tools. |
| Nickel-zinc (NiZn) | Used in wireless keyboards, digital cameras, and other small electronics. |
| Sealed lead-acid (SLA) | Used in children's toy cars, hospital equipment, and emergency lighting. |
| Lead-acid | These are vehicle batteries and used in cars, boats, and more. |
Once they reach the end of their life, store used rechargeable batteries in a container until you can take them to a battery recycling center or drop-off point. It's worth noting that certain retailers accept only some types of batteries, so it's a good idea to check before you go.
Note: Not all rechargeable batteries are removable. "If you can't remove the battery, the entire device should be brought to a certified electronics recycler or a retailer that offers an electronics takeback service," says Gates.
How to find battery disposal resources near you
To recycle batteries, you will need to bring them to a battery recycling center or hazardous waste collection in your town. Some retailers also offer battery takeback services.
The first step you can take is to check your city's official website for more information on local policies. From there, you should be able to find battery drop-off points in schools, public libraries, or other municipal buildings.
In some states, big-box retailers like Home Depot, Best Buy, Target, and Walmart offer recycling programs and e-waste drop-off.
Lastly, environmental steward resources like Earth911 and Call2Recycle offer searchable databases and mail-in services.
