How To Safely Throw Away Batteries

Collect used household batteries in a safe container such as a cardboard box or plastic tub.

How to safely throw away batteries. Instead of waiting for it to spontaneously combust in my garage I decided to research. Do not throw batteries into trash or recycling bins. Most of the above stores only accept rechargeable batteries but fortunately RadioShack will take non-rechargeable alkaline batteries as well.

Follow these precautions before throwing them out. Some states do ask that you simply throw away your alkaline batteries. If the battery is warm smelly or smoking put it outside away from flammable materials or in a fireproof container and wait for the symptoms to dissipate.

Place a piece of non-conductive clear tape over the ends to prevent any current transfer. In many places these batteries are regulated as general waste and can be disposed of in general. They note that even if you arent buying a replacement battery you might be able to get a credit from the store for recycling your old battery.

Remember not all single-charge batteries are alkaline. This will prevent any potential leakage from getting out of the battery. Energizer confirms that regular batteries are fine to toss in the trash but says rechargeable batteries should be recycled according to US federal guidelines.

Prepping single-use batteries for recycling. In the event of temperature extremes or the LiPo being crushed or penetrated by something like a nail your battery you threw away could end up rupturing the electrolytes may leak and it could result in a fire. Most government counties will direct you to local facilities that allow you to drop off batteries.

Do not throw lithium-ion batteries or electronics into your trash can or recycling bin. Regular alkaline manganese and carbon-zinc batteries are not considered hazardous waste and can be disposed of with ordinary trash. Other common single use or rechargeable batteries such as lithium and button batteries are recyclable but access to recycling may not be available in all.