How to Dispose of Household and Lithium Batteries
Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries are the leading cause of garbage truck fires and recycling plant explosions across the United States. While standard alkaline batteries (AA, AAA) are permitted in household trash in most states, lithium, button cell, and automotive batteries must never enter curbside bins.
Most county solid waste transfer stations maintain free dedicated battery recycling boxes at their scale entrance. Always verify your local municipal hauler requirements before placing large items at the curb.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Check the battery label. Common single-use alkaline batteries say Alkaline. Rechargeable batteries will indicate Li-ion (Lithium-ion), NiMH, or NiCd.
Place a small strip of clear electrical tape or Scotch tape over the positive and negative terminals of lithium and 9-volt batteries to prevent sparks during transport.
Bring rechargeable batteries to national Call2Recycle drop-off kiosks located at Home Depot, Lowe’s, Best Buy, and Ace Hardware stores.
AutoZone, O’Reilly Auto Parts, and Advance Auto Parts will take used car batteries for free and often provide a store credit core charge refund.
⚠️ Important Rules to Avoid Fines & Hazards
- NEVER throw lithium-ion rechargeable batteries (vapes, power tool batteries, laptop batteries) into curbside trash or recycling carts.
- Punctured or crushed lithium batteries ignite instantly upon contact with moisture in garbage compactor trucks.
- Keep used batteries in a cardboard box or plastic container away from flammable materials until drop-off.
Our directory covers 164 verified US cities with direct contact numbers, hauler websites, and neighborhood collection rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you throw away regular AA and AAA batteries in the trash?▼
In all states except California, common single-use alkaline batteries (Duracell, Energizer AA, AAA, C, D) manufactured after 1996 contain no added mercury and are legal to dispose of in regular household garbage. In California, all batteries are classified as hazardous waste.
How do you dispose of swollen lithium-ion batteries?▼
Place a swollen or bulging battery in a fire-proof container with sand or kitty litter. Do not charge or puncture it. Transport it immediately to a municipal hazardous waste collection site.
Can you recycle batteries in your blue recycling bin?▼
No. Curbside recycling bins are only for clean containers (bottles, cans, paper, cardboard). Batteries placed in blue bins cause severe sorting facility fires.