How to Dispose of Old Batteries
Updated: Sep 17
In our gadget-filled world, batteries power everything from remote controls to cars, making them an indispensable part of daily life. However, disposing of old batteries responsibly is crucial to avoid environmental harm and potential fire hazards. Here’s a concise guide to help you dispose of different types of batteries the right way.
Single-Use Batteries
While you might toss AA or AAA batteries in the trash without a second thought, a better choice is to recycle them. Many communities offer recycling programs specifically for these batteries, preventing them from ending up in landfills and allowing materials to be reused.
Not all single-use batteries are the same. Ordinary alkaline batteries and single-use lithium batteries have different disposal considerations, so check the label before deciding where to take them. In Austin, keep all batteries out of your curbside trash and recycling carts.
Rechargeable Batteries
Rechargeable batteries, such as those in your laptop or smartphone, contain materials that require special handling. Never throw these in the trash. Instead, take them to a designated recycling center or a participating retailer that accepts your specific battery type.
Lithium-ion batteries can start fires if they’re damaged or their terminals come into contact with metal. Keep them out of regular trash and recycling bins, even when they no longer hold a charge.
Lead-Acid Batteries
Found in vehicles, lead-acid batteries are highly recyclable. Automotive shops and battery retailers may accept them for recycling and may offer a credit when you purchase a replacement.
These batteries contain lead and corrosive acid, so follow the handling instructions on the battery and confirm that a retailer accepts your type before bringing it in.
Button Cell Batteries
Small but potent, button cell batteries are used in watches and hearing aids and may contain lithium or other metals. Some older button batteries contained mercury.
Take them to a battery recycling location that accepts button or coin batteries. Keep them away from children, and place each battery in a separate bag or cover its terminals with non-conductive tape before recycling.
Storing and Handling Batteries Safely
Before disposal, keep used batteries in a safe, dry place away from children and pets. For loose lithium, rechargeable, and button batteries, cover exposed terminals with non-conductive tape or place each battery in a separate bag to help prevent short circuits.
If a battery is swollen, leaking, unusually hot, or damaged, don’t place it in a regular battery collection box. Contact the manufacturer or a household hazardous waste facility for handling instructions.
Finding Recycling Options
Check your local waste management policies or use resources like Call2Recycle’s drop-off locator to find nearby recycling options. Choose your battery type when searching, since not every location accepts every kind of battery.
If you’re in Austin or Travis County, the City of Austin lists local household battery recycling locations, including participating libraries and the Recycle and Reuse Center. The center requires an appointment and also accepts car batteries; participating library drop-offs are for household batteries, not large car batteries.
Can Batteries Go in a Dash Away Hauling Dumpster?
No. Batteries should not be placed in our dumpsters or mixed in with junk removal loads. They need to go through an appropriate battery recycling or hazardous waste collection program.
For more information about items that need special disposal, read our guide on what materials can and cannot go in a dumpster.
Proper disposal of batteries not only helps in conserving natural resources but also reduces pollution, making it a crucial practice for all environmentally conscious consumers. By following these tips, you can ensure that your batteries are disposed of safely and responsibly.
Clearing out other unwanted items while sorting through old batteries? Once you’ve set the batteries aside for proper recycling, our junk removal service can help with the acceptable household clutter you’re ready to get rid of.
Learn more about how to dispose of unwanted items:
