How to Get Rid of Old Batteries: Safe Disposal & Recycling Tips
If you have old batteries sitting in a junk drawer, you're not alone. When batteries stop working, it’s easy to toss them in a drawer and forget about them.
But not all batteries can go in the trash. Some need to be recycled or dropped off at special collection sites because of the chemicals and materials inside them. So, what should you actually do with old batteries?
Why Does Battery Disposal Matter?
Some batteries can leak chemicals or even start fires if they're thrown away incorrectly or damaged. Recycling also makes sure that materials like nickel, cobalt, and lead can be recovered and reused instead of going to waste.
How to Get Rid of Different Types of Batteries
Here’s a breakdown:
| Battery Type | Where You'll Find Them | What to Do |
| Alkaline (AA, AAA, C, D) | Remotes, toys, flashlights | Recycle when possible. Some areas allow them in household trash. |
| Lithium coin/button | Watches, key fobs, small electronics | Bring to a battery recycling or hazardous waste drop-off location. |
| Rechargeable (NiMH, NiCd) | Cameras, toys, power tools | Take to a participating retailer or recycling center. |
| Lithium-ion | Phones, laptops, power tools | Bring to an approved battery recycling location. Never put them in regular trash or curbside recycling. |
| Lead-acid | Cars, motorcycles, lawn equipment | Return to an auto parts store or approved recycling facility. |
If you're unsure what type of battery you have, check the label or ask your local recycling center.
How to Store Old Batteries Before Recycling
You can save up old batteries for a recycling trip, as long as you store them safely.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Tape the terminals: Cover exposed terminals with electrical tape, especially on lithium and rechargeable batteries, to help prevent short circuits.
- Keep them separated: Store batteries individually in plastic bags or protect their terminals so they don't come into contact with each other or metal objects.
- Find a safe spot: Keep batteries somewhere cool and dry, away from heat, children, and pets.
- Look out for damage: If a battery is swollen, leaking, or getting unusually hot, don't put it with your other batteries. Contact your local hazardous waste facility for instructions.
Avoid crushing, puncturing, or taking apart old batteries.
Where Can You Recycle Old Batteries?
Not sure where to take your batteries? There are a few places worth checking.
Local recycling centers: Many cities have recycling centers or e-waste collection events that accept batteries. Your local waste management website is a good place to start!
Retail stores: Some hardware stores, electronics stores, and auto parts stores offer battery recycling. Just make sure to check which types they accept before making the trip.
Battery drop-off locations: The Call2Recycle drop-off locator makes it easy to search for participating battery recycling locations near you.
Mail-in programs: Some recycling companies offer mail-in kits if you don't have a convenient drop-off location nearby.
Local recycling events: Many TWO MEN AND A JUNK TRUCK® locations partner with local e-waste recycling facilities, even hosting community drop-off events. Past partnerships include Columbus Micro Systems in Ohio and Blue Sky Solutions in Charlotte, NC. Keep an eye on your local TWO MEN AND A JUNK TRUCK location's social media pages for upcoming events!
Can You Throw Batteries in the Trash?
Sometimes, but it depends on the battery.
In many areas, regular alkaline batteries can go in household trash. However, recycling is still a better option when it's available. Lithium, rechargeable, and lead-acid batteries should never go in your regular trash or curbside recycling bin. These need to be taken to a proper recycling or collection facility.
Local rules can vary, so it's always worth checking before throwing anything away.
Final Thoughts
Properly disposing of old batteries is just one way to reduce waste during your next cleanout. At TWO MEN AND A JUNK TRUCK, we're all about helping people clear out unwanted items while finding opportunities to give usable materials a second life whenever possible.