⚠️ Batteries: hazardous waste. Batteries contain corrosive and heavy-metal materials, and they can spark fires in trucks and sorting facilities. Never put it in the regular trash — use a facility or take-back below.
Best ways to dispose of batteries (best → last resort)
Drop-offBest option, everywhere
Free battery drop-off bins at many hardware and electronics stores (Home Depot, Lowe's, Best Buy, Staples) and household hazardous waste (HHW) sites.
Curbside trashAlkaline only, outside California
Most states allow single-use alkaline batteries in regular trash, but recycling is preferred. In California ALL batteries are hazardous waste and are illegal in the trash.
How to prepare it
Put a piece of clear tape over the terminals (the +/− ends), especially on 9V.
Store in a non-conductive container (plastic, cardboard, or glass) until drop-off.
Don't
Never toss loose batteries in curbside recycling — they cause fires.
Never bulk-store loose batteries touching each other.
Find a drop-off near you
Acceptance varies by city — always check your local program first.