How to dispose of lithium & rechargeable batteries
⚠️ Lithium & rechargeable batteries: hazardous waste. Lithium-ion cells can overheat and catch fire when crushed or short-circuited — a major cause of waste-facility fires. Never put it in the regular trash — use a facility or take-back below.
Best ways to dispose of lithium & rechargeable batteries (best → last resort)
Retail take-backFree, nationwide
Call2Recycle bins at Home Depot, Lowe's, Best Buy, and Staples take rechargeable and lithium-ion batteries free.
Hazardous-waste facilityIf no retail bin nearby
Your household hazardous waste (HHW) collection site accepts them.
How to prepare it
Tape the terminals.
Bag each battery separately if it's swollen or damaged.
Don't
Never put lithium batteries in trash or curbside recycling — it's illegal in many states and a fire risk.
Never puncture or crush them.
Find a drop-off near you
Acceptance varies by city — always check your local program first.
What's the best way to dispose of lithium & rechargeable batteries?
Retail take-back (free, nationwide): Call2Recycle bins at Home Depot, Lowe's, Best Buy, and Staples take rechargeable and lithium-ion batteries free.
Can you put lithium & rechargeable batteries in the trash?
No — this is hazardous and should not go in the regular trash. Never put lithium batteries in trash or curbside recycling — it's illegal in many states and a fire risk.
Where can I recycle lithium & rechargeable batteries near me?
Search a drop-off with the Earth911 locator or "lithium battery recycling drop-off near me." Acceptance varies by city, so confirm with your local program.