Where to Dispose of Lithium Batteries

Lithium battery fires at waste facilities surged by 26% between 2020 and 2024, with improper disposal accounting for over 65% of these incidents according to Fire Rover’s 2025 Waste Industry Safety Report. The explosion in battery-powered devices—from smartphones to electric vehicles—has created a critical disposal crisis that affects every community. What once seemed like a simple act of tossing a dead battery has become a complex environmental and safety challenge, one that demands immediate attention as recycling infrastructure races to keep pace with exponential battery waste generation.

Understanding Lithium Battery Disposal: The Big Picture

Lithium batteries power an astounding array of modern devices. Your smartphone, laptop, cordless drill, electric toothbrush, wireless earbuds, and even your child’s toy car all rely on these energy-dense cells. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that Americans discarded approximately 3.2 billion batteries in 2024, with lithium-ion variants representing the fastest-growing segment at 18% year-over-year growth.

These batteries contain critical minerals—lithium, cobalt, nickel, graphite, and manganese—that are both economically vital and strategically important to national security. When thrown in regular trash, these resources vanish into landfills, lost forever. The U.S. Geological Survey designates these materials as “critical minerals” due to supply chain vulnerability and lack of substitutes. Current domestic lithium production satisfies less than 1% of U.S. demand, making recovery from spent batteries essential for reducing foreign dependence.

The fire hazard is real and escalating. Lithium-ion cells retain substantial charge even when devices appear dead—often 20-40% of original capacity. When compressed in garbage trucks or crushed at sorting facilities, damaged batteries undergo thermal runaway, a chain reaction where internal temperatures exceed 1,000°F. The National Fire Protection Association documented 286 waste facility fires attributed to lithium batteries in 2024, up from 108 in 2020.

Regulations reflect this urgency. Most lithium-ion batteries meet the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) definition of hazardous waste, carrying ignitable (D001) and reactive (D003) waste codes. While households receive exemption from these regulations, commercial entities face strict management requirements. The EPA’s October 2023 proposed rule to add lithium batteries to universal waste standards signals federal recognition that current disposal systems are inadequate.

Understanding what you’re dealing with matters. Lithium-ion batteries (rechargeable) differ fundamentally from lithium metal batteries (typically single-use). Li-ion cells use lithium compounds in their cathodes and are found in phones, laptops, and power tools. Lithium metal batteries contain pure metallic lithium and appear in watches, key fobs, and some medical devices. Both require specialized handling, but for different chemical reasons.

Lithium Battery Disposal Across Different Contexts

Disposal pathways diverge sharply based on who you are and what you’re discarding. Consumer disposal enjoys the most accessible options, while businesses navigate regulatory mazes, and special categories like electric vehicle batteries follow entirely separate channels.

For Individual Consumers

Household battery disposal falls under convenient frameworks designed for ease of participation. Federal regulations exempt households from hazardous waste rules that govern commercial entities, but this doesn’t mean tossing batteries in trash becomes acceptable. The exemption exists because tracking every household as a waste generator would prove administratively impossible, not because home batteries pose less risk.

Call2Recycle operates North America’s largest battery stewardship program, with over 34,000 drop-off locations across the United States as of early 2025. The nonprofit accepts all rechargeable battery chemistries—lithium-ion, nickel-cadmium, nickel-metal hydride, and small sealed lead-acid cells up to 11 pounds and 300 watt-hours. Most locations sit inside major retailers: Home Depot, Lowe’s, Best Buy, and Staples host collection bins near customer service desks.

Local municipal programs provide alternative channels. Approximately 68% of U.S. counties now operate household hazardous waste (HHW) facilities that accept batteries during designated hours or special collection events. These programs handle items beyond retail collection scope, including damaged batteries and larger battery packs. Your county’s solid waste department website lists specific locations, hours, and accepted materials.

For Small and Medium Businesses

Commercial battery generators occupy more complex regulatory territory. Businesses producing less than 100 kilograms (220 pounds) of hazardous waste monthly qualify as Very Small Quantity Generators (VSQGs) under RCRA, facing reduced requirements. A small accounting firm replacing laptop batteries or a boutique hotel disposing of cordless vacuum packs likely fits this category.

The practical path involves universal waste designation. This streamlined regulatory framework allows businesses to accumulate batteries on-site for up to one year, provided they’re stored properly in marked containers. Unlike full hazardous waste rules, universal waste doesn’t require manifests for shipment, though batteries must reach a permitted disposal facility or certified recycler. Many businesses contract with specialized waste vendors who handle compliance details while providing regular pickup service.

Professional service firms—law offices, medical practices, consulting agencies—often overlook their battery disposal obligations. A 50-person consulting firm might generate 30-40 pounds of spent laptop, phone, and peripheral device batteries annually. These organizations benefit from partnering with e-waste recyclers who accept mixed electronic waste streams, extracting batteries during device disassembly.

For E-Mobility and Large Batteries

Electric bikes, scooters, and similar e-mobility devices present unique challenges. Their battery packs typically range from 200 to 600 watt-hours, exceeding most retail collection program limits. Call2Recycle launched a specialized e-mobility battery program in 2024, but coverage remains limited to select urban areas. Manufacturers increasingly offer take-back programs—Rad Power Bikes, for instance, provides prepaid shipping labels for end-of-life battery returns.

Electric vehicle batteries follow different pathways entirely. These massive packs contain 20-100 kilowatt-hours of capacity and weigh 400-1,200 pounds. Automotive dealers, manufacturers, and specialized EV service centers coordinate disposal through dedicated recycling partners. Never attempt to handle EV battery removal independently; trained technicians must deactivate high-voltage systems and transport packs in certified containers.

Where to Drop Off Your Lithium Batteries: Complete Location Guide

Finding the right disposal point requires matching your battery type, quantity, and condition with available collection infrastructure. Multiple pathways exist, each with distinct advantages.

National Retail Collection Programs

Major retailers anchor the collection network. Home Depot participates in Call2Recycle’s program at all U.S. locations, accepting rechargeable batteries under 11 pounds at customer service desks. Collection bins accept standard sizes—AAA through D cells, 9-volt, and specialty rechargeable formats. Store associates can direct you to bins if not immediately visible near entrances.

Best Buy’s electronics recycling program extends to all battery types, including lithium cells from devices sold in their stores. The retailer accepts up to three items daily per household at no charge. Their service handles not just loose batteries but complete devices containing them—old phones, tablets, and laptops. Best Buy’s program operates inside stores during regular business hours, with designated collection areas typically near the entrance or customer service counter.

Lowe’s maintains a battery recycling station program at most locations, with bins positioned at store fronts. Their system mirrors Home Depot’s Call2Recycle partnership, accepting similar battery specifications. Batteries Plus stores combine retail battery sales with robust recycling services. As battery specialists, these locations accept virtually any consumer battery type and provide guidance on proper handling.

Call2Recycle’s Network Beyond Retail

Call2Recycle’s online locator tool (call2recycle.org/locator) reveals drop-off sites beyond major chains. Enter your ZIP code to discover municipal buildings, libraries, community centers, and independent retailers participating in the program. The database updates weekly as new collection points join and others adjust their acceptance criteria.

The program recently expanded capacity for lithium-ion batteries specifically, responding to fire concerns. Participating sites now receive fire-resistant collection containers and enhanced training on safe handling procedures. Drop-off locations sort batteries by chemistry type—alkaline, lithium, nickel-based—to reduce cross-contamination and fire risk during transport.

Municipal Household Hazardous Waste Programs

County and city HHW facilities serve as catch-all disposal points for items retail programs can’t accept. These government-operated centers handle damaged batteries, swollen cells, large battery packs, and mixed hazardous household products. Operating hours vary widely—some facilities open weekly, others monthly or by appointment only.

Locating your local HHW facility starts with your county’s solid waste management website. Search “[Your County] household hazardous waste” to find specific locations. Programs typically require proof of residency and limit quantities—often 50 pounds total per visit across all hazardous materials. Some jurisdictions charge nominal fees for battery disposal to cover processing costs, typically $1-5 per pound for lithium-ion cells.

Mail-In Recycling Services

Mail-in programs offer convenience for those lacking nearby drop-off options. Companies like Battery Solutions and ERI provide prepaid recycling boxes in various sizes. Purchase a kit online, fill it with spent batteries following packaging instructions, seal the box, and schedule pickup or drop at a shipping center. The U.S. Department of Transportation regulates battery shipment, requiring specific packaging that limits thermal runaway risk during transit.

These services cost $30-150 depending on box size and battery types accepted. For individuals with accumulated batteries but no local collection point within reasonable driving distance, mail-in programs provide practical alternatives. Small businesses sometimes use these services for quarterly or annual battery cleanouts.

Manufacturer Take-Back Programs

Leading electronics manufacturers increasingly offer direct battery return programs. Apple accepts old iPhones, iPads, and MacBooks at retail stores and through mail-in trade-in programs, extracting batteries during device processing. Dell’s mail-back program provides free shipping labels for laptop battery returns. Milwaukee Tool, DeWalt, and Makita operate battery recycling initiatives for their cordless power tool ecosystems, often through retailer partners.

These manufacturer programs excel for brand-specific battery packs—the proprietary formats used in power tools, vacuum cleaners, and specialty devices. Generic alkaline or standard lithium cells find better homes through Call2Recycle or retail programs.

Safe Handling and Preparation: Critical Steps Before Disposal

Proper preparation prevents fires, protects handlers, and ensures successful recycling. The EPA recommends specific procedures that take just minutes but dramatically reduce hazard potential.

Terminal Protection: The Critical First Step

Battery terminals—the metal contacts that connect to devices—pose short-circuit risk when they contact conductive materials. A short circuit generates heat rapidly, potentially igniting the battery or surrounding materials. The EPA’s primary safety recommendation is simple: cover all battery terminals before disposal.

Electrical tape works best for terminal covering. Place small strips over positive and negative contacts, ensuring complete coverage of exposed metal. For 9-volt batteries with side-by-side terminals, fold tape over both simultaneously. Button cell batteries require full wrapping since their entire circular edge functions as one terminal.

If electrical tape is unavailable, any non-conductive adhesive tape suffices—masking tape, packaging tape, or even clear adhesive tape. Avoid metallic tapes or aluminum-backed products, which defeat the purpose. Some recycling programs distribute terminal tape at collection points, though bringing your own ensures you’re prepared.

An alternative approach places each battery in an individual plastic bag. This isolation prevents terminal-to-terminal contact between batteries and terminal-to-metal contact with other objects. Small zip-lock bags work well for AAA, AA, and similar sizes. For larger batteries, standard sandwich or quart-size bags provide adequate separation.

Battery Identification and Sorting

Different battery chemistries follow different disposal pathways. Mixing types can contaminate recycling streams or create hazardous reactions. Learning to identify what you’re holding takes seconds once you know where to look.

Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries typically display “Li-ion” markings on their casing. Look for “rechargeable” text, recycling symbols with battery icons, or chemistry abbreviations. Power tool batteries, laptop cells, and phone batteries almost universally use lithium-ion chemistry. If a battery charges in-device or via external charger, it’s rechargeable.

Single-use lithium metal batteries—found in watches, key fobs, and some cameras—show “Li” or “Lithium” markings. These are lighter weight than alkaline batteries of equivalent size and maintain voltage better in extreme temperatures. CR-series button cells (CR2032, CR2025) use lithium metal chemistry.

Alkaline batteries, the traditional AA/AAA/C/D household cells, typically say “alkaline” directly on the casing or show no chemistry marking at all. While some municipalities allow alkaline battery disposal in regular trash, recycling remains the better choice. They contain zinc and manganese, both recyclable materials.

Storage Until Disposal

Spent batteries shouldn’t sit loose in junk drawers or garage corners. Proper interim storage prevents degradation and reduces fire risk during accumulation periods.

Store batteries in non-metal containers—plastic bins, cardboard boxes, or ceramic bowls work well. Metal containers could contact multiple battery terminals simultaneously, creating short-circuit risk. Keep containers at room temperature, away from heat sources like radiators, direct sunlight, or attics in summer.

Separate lithium-ion batteries from other types if possible. These pose the highest fire risk due to their energy density and chemical reactivity. A dedicated lithium battery container—even a simple cardboard box labeled “Li-ion batteries – for recycling”—helps prevent mixing and makes eventual transport to drop-off locations more organized.

Don’t store batteries long-term. The longer they sit, the more they degrade. Internal chemical reactions continue even in “dead” batteries. Establish a disposal rhythm—perhaps quarterly drop-offs at local collection points—to prevent large accumulations. Some fire departments recommend disposing of lithium batteries within 30 days of removal from devices.

Damage Assessment

Damaged batteries require special handling. A swollen, bulging, or puffy battery indicates internal gas buildup from chemical breakdown. These compromised cells are one thermal shock away from failure. Never apply pressure to swollen batteries, and never attempt to use or charge them.

If you discover a swollen or damaged lithium battery, isolate it immediately. Place it in a fireproof container—a glass jar, ceramic bowl, or metal can filled with sand—and store outdoors if possible or in a garage away from flammable materials. Contact your local HHW facility immediately; damaged batteries need priority handling.

Batteries showing visible damage—cracks, punctures, leaked fluids—also require special protocols. Leaked battery fluid is corrosive and toxic. Wear gloves when handling, place the battery in a sealed plastic bag, and transport to HHW facilities rather than retail drop-offs. Call ahead to confirm they accept damaged cells.

Special Situations: Damaged, Swollen, and E-Bike Batteries

Standard disposal channels handle healthy batteries well, but compromised cells and oversized packs demand different approaches.

The Damaged Battery Emergency

A visibly damaged lithium battery—one that’s punctured, crushed, or shows scorch marks—may contain virtually no remaining energy or could be primed for thermal runaway. You can’t determine status visually, so treat every damaged cell as an immediate fire risk.

Washington State Department of Ecology recommends placing damaged batteries in containers filled with sand, recycled glass, or specialized battery fire suppressant products. These materials absorb heat and smother potential fires by limiting oxygen access. A 5-gallon metal bucket half-filled with play sand provides effective containment for most consumer-size batteries.

Never place damaged batteries in plastic containers, which melt during thermal events. Never store them in enclosed spaces like closets or basements. Outdoor storage in a metal container away from structures offers the safest holding position until professional disposal becomes available.

Call2Recycle sells Damaged, Defective, or Recalled (DDR) battery kits specifically designed for safe transport of compromised cells. These kits cost $75-100 but include specialized packaging that meets Department of Transportation regulations for shipping hazardous materials. For individuals with a single damaged battery, contacting your HHW facility for advice often proves more practical than purchasing a full DDR kit.

E-Bike and E-Scooter Battery Challenges

E-mobility battery packs typically range from 300 to 1,000 watt-hours—far exceeding retail collection program limits. These devices have proliferated rapidly; the National Association of City Transportation Officials reported 136 million e-scooter trips in 2024, up 27% from 2023. Each device eventually generates an end-of-life battery requiring disposal.

Manufacturers increasingly recognize this responsibility. Companies like Lime and Bird (shared scooter operators) contract with specialized recyclers for fleet battery management. For consumer-owned e-bikes and scooters, contact the original manufacturer or retailer for guidance. Many offer return programs or connect customers with regional recycling partners.

Call2Recycle’s E-Mobility Battery Recycling program launched pilot programs in 2024 across 15 major metropolitan areas. Participating locations accept batteries up to 1,500 watt-hours. Check their website for current program availability in your region. This infrastructure is expanding but hasn’t yet achieved national coverage.

Never attempt to disassemble e-mobility battery packs independently. These systems operate at high voltages (typically 36-72 volts) with integrated management systems that require professional deactivation. Improper handling can cause immediate electric shock or delayed thermal runaway.

Professional Service Firms’ Battery Accumulation

Law offices, medical practices, and consulting firms face a unique challenge: steady but low-volume battery waste from laptops, phones, UPS systems, and peripheral devices. A 30-person legal practice might accumulate 20-30 pounds of batteries annually—enough to warrant systematic disposal but not enough to justify dedicated waste vendor contracts.

These organizations often benefit from bundling battery disposal with broader e-waste recycling initiatives. Many IT service providers who handle equipment refreshes offer e-waste collection as an ancillary service. When replacing office computers, phones, or UPS backup systems, specify that the vendor must extract and properly recycle all batteries through certified channels.

Industry-specific regulations sometimes impose additional requirements. Healthcare facilities, for instance, must verify that disposal vendors comply with medical waste segregation rules, even for non-medical batteries, due to facility-wide compliance standards. Professional practices should document battery disposal through weight tickets, certificates of recycling, or disposal manifests to demonstrate environmental compliance during audits.

Environmental and Economic Impact of Proper Disposal

The argument for proper lithium battery disposal extends beyond fire prevention into resource conservation and environmental protection with quantifiable benefits.

Critical Mineral Recovery Rates

Modern recycling technologies recover 95% or more of valuable materials from lithium-ion batteries, according to research published in Nature Reviews Clean Technology in January 2025. Hydrometallurgical processes—chemical leaching at temperatures below 200°C—extract lithium, nickel, cobalt, copper, and aluminum with exceptional purity.

These recovery rates carry enormous strategic implications. Cobalt, essential for most lithium-ion cathodes, comes primarily from the Democratic Republic of Congo, where supply chain disruptions and ethical concerns plague extraction operations. Recycling one metric ton of lithium-ion batteries yields approximately 150-200 kilograms of recoverable cobalt—equivalent to what might take months to mine and refine from ore.

Lithium itself, while relatively abundant globally, requires intensive processing from brine deposits or hard rock mining. Recovered lithium from recycled batteries requires 50-70% less energy to reprocess into battery-grade compounds compared to virgin material extraction. As electric vehicle adoption accelerates—U.S. EV registrations exceeded 1.6 million in 2024—recycled materials will become essential for meeting battery production demand.

The lithium-ion battery recycling market reached $7.3 billion globally in 2024 and projects to $23.9 billion by 2030, representing 21.9% compound annual growth, according to March 2025 industry analysis. This expansion reflects both increased end-of-life battery volumes and improved recycling economics as material recovery technologies mature.

Environmental Contamination Prevention

Improperly disposed lithium batteries release toxic compounds into soil and groundwater. Battery electrolytes contain fluorinated organic compounds, particularly lithium hexafluorophosphate, which decomposes into hydrofluoric acid under environmental conditions. This acid is severely corrosive and toxic to aquatic ecosystems.

Heavy metals in battery electrodes—cobalt, nickel, manganese—bioaccumulate in food chains. Cobalt concentrations in soil near improperly managed battery waste sites can reach levels 100 times higher than background, according to environmental monitoring studies. These metals persist for decades, steadily contaminating groundwater as they leach from landfills.

Proper recycling eliminates these pathways. Certified facilities process batteries in controlled environments with containment systems, wastewater treatment, and air filtration. Materials are separated and directed into manufacturing supply chains rather than environmental release.

The Avoided Emissions Equation

Battery recycling reduces greenhouse gas emissions through multiple mechanisms. Mining and refining virgin battery materials is energy-intensive, particularly lithium carbonate production and cobalt purification. Using recycled materials avoids these upstream emissions entirely.

Lifecycle analysis shows recycled battery materials generate 40-60% fewer emissions per kilogram than virgin equivalents, depending on the specific recycling process and material. For a typical 60 kWh electric vehicle battery containing approximately 10 kg of lithium, 50 kg of nickel, and 10 kg of cobalt, recycling rather than virgin material sourcing could avoid 300-500 kg of CO₂-equivalent emissions.

Scale these savings across projected battery waste volumes. The International Energy Agency estimates that by 2030, annual end-of-life EV batteries alone will exceed 1 million metric tons. If 80% enters recycling streams rather than disposal, the annual emissions avoidance could reach 200,000-300,000 metric tons CO₂-equivalent—comparable to removing 40,000-60,000 gasoline vehicles from roads.

2025 Disposal Landscape: What’s Changing

Battery disposal infrastructure and regulations are evolving rapidly in response to growing waste volumes and fire incidents. Several developments are reshaping how consumers and businesses will manage end-of-life batteries.

EPA’s Universal Waste Proposal

The EPA’s October 2023 Notice of Intent announced forthcoming regulations to add lithium batteries to federal universal waste standards with tailored safety provisions. This rulemaking, expected to finalize in late 2025 or early 2026, would create uniform national standards for lithium battery management by commercial entities.

The proposal emphasizes fire prevention through requirements for terminal protection, segregation by battery chemistry, and use of fire-resistant storage containers. It would also establish packaging and labeling standards for transporting accumulated batteries to recycling facilities. These federal rules would supersede the current patchwork of state regulations, simplifying compliance for businesses operating in multiple states.

For consumers, universal waste designation would likely expand collection infrastructure. The streamlined regulatory framework reduces costs and liability for collection point operators, encouraging more retail locations, municipal facilities, and private collectors to participate in battery take-back programs.

State-Level Extended Producer Responsibility

Several states are implementing or considering Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) legislation that shifts battery disposal costs from municipalities and consumers onto manufacturers and importers. California’s Battery Extended Producer Responsibility Act, effective January 2025, requires battery producers to fund and operate collection and recycling systems.

These EPR frameworks typically mandate minimum collection rates—California targets 60% collection of sold battery weight by 2028, ramping to 80% by 2032. Producers must establish convenient collection networks, often through retail partnerships, and fund processing through product sales revenue. This approach mirrors successful electronics recycling programs in Europe.

New York, Washington, and Illinois are advancing similar EPR proposals. If these states enact legislation, approximately 35% of the U.S. population would live under EPR systems by 2026. This would dramatically expand free collection infrastructure, as producers compete to establish convenient networks that demonstrate compliance with collection rate mandates.

Retail Program Expansions

Major retailers are expanding battery collection beyond regulatory requirements, recognizing both sustainability marketing value and customer demand. Home Depot announced in March 2025 that all U.S. locations would install enhanced fire-resistant battery collection systems by year-end, accepting batteries up to 25 pounds—more than double previous limits.

Target stores began piloting battery collection programs in 500 locations during Q1 2025, partnering with Call2Recycle for logistics and processing. If the pilot proves successful, Target plans national rollout by 2026, adding thousands of collection points to the network.

Amazon launched a mail-in battery recycling program in late 2024 integrated with their device trade-in platform. Customers can request free battery recycling envelopes when trading in electronics or purchase standalone recycling kits. Amazon’s packaging meets DOT requirements for lithium battery shipment, with fire-resistant materials and proper labeling.

Recycling Technology Advancements

Direct recycling technologies—processes that repair and reuse battery cathode materials without breaking them down to elemental components—are moving from laboratory to commercial scale. These methods use 90% less energy than traditional hydrometallurgical recycling and preserve the complex crystal structures of cathode materials that took significant energy to create initially.

Redwood Materials, founded by former Tesla executive J.B. Straubel, is constructing facilities capable of processing 100 GWh worth of batteries annually by 2025. The company’s technology recovers materials directly into battery manufacturing supply chains, with agreements to supply major automakers including Toyota and Ford.

Li-Cycle, another major player, operates “spoke-and-hub” systems where regional facilities shred batteries safely, then ship concentrated materials to centralized hydrometallurgical processing hubs. This model reduces transportation risk while achieving economies of scale in chemical processing. The company processed over 10,000 metric tons of lithium-ion battery material in 2024.

These capacity expansions reduce recycling costs, making proper disposal more economically attractive for all participants in the chain—consumers, collection points, and processors. As recycling becomes profitable rather than cost-neutral or subsidized, collection infrastructure should naturally expand.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I throw lithium batteries in regular trash if there’s no recycling program near me?

No. While regulatory exemptions exist for household hazardous waste, including batteries, throwing lithium batteries in regular trash creates fire hazards at collection and processing facilities. If local collection options are limited, accumulate batteries safely at home and use mail-in recycling services or plan periodic trips to the nearest collection point. Some retailers accept batteries by mail, and commercial mail-in programs charge $30-75 for prepaid recycling boxes that hold 15-30 pounds of batteries.

How do I identify if a battery is lithium-ion versus alkaline or other types?

Check the battery casing for chemistry markings. Lithium-ion batteries typically display “Li-ion,” “rechargeable,” or specific chemistry codes (18650, 21700, etc.). If the battery charges while in a device or via external charger, it’s rechargeable and likely lithium-ion. Alkaline batteries usually say “alkaline” on the casing or show no chemistry marking—these are standard AA, AAA, C, D, and 9-volt disposable batteries. Button cell batteries often indicate chemistry: “CR” prefix means lithium metal, “LR” means alkaline, “SR” means silver oxide. When uncertain, treat batteries as lithium-ion (the higher-risk category) and take them to collection programs that accept all types.

Are there any costs associated with recycling lithium batteries?

Most consumer collection programs operate free of charge. Call2Recycle drop-offs at retailers like Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Best Buy accept batteries at no cost. Municipal household hazardous waste facilities sometimes charge nominal fees—typically $1-5 per pound for lithium-ion batteries—though many offer free collection to residents. Mail-in programs require purchasing recycling kits ($30-150 depending on size). For businesses, disposal costs depend on volumes and service arrangements; small quantities through retail programs remain free, while larger accumulations requiring pickup service involve fees of $50-200 per pickup depending on weight and frequency.

What should I do if I find an old, swollen lithium battery?

Isolate it immediately from other batteries and flammable materials. Place the swollen battery in a fire-resistant container—ideally a metal can, ceramic bowl, or glass jar—filled partially with sand or kitty litter to absorb potential heat. Store this container outdoors if possible, or in a garage away from living spaces. Do not attempt to use, charge, or puncture a swollen battery. Contact your local household hazardous waste facility for guidance on emergency drop-off; many accept damaged batteries outside regular collection hours for safety reasons. Do not place swollen batteries in retail collection bins, as these aren’t designed for compromised cells and could endanger staff or cause facility fires.

Do I need to tape battery terminals before recycling, or is that optional?

Terminal taping is strongly recommended, not optional. The EPA specifically advises covering all battery terminals with non-conductive tape (electrical tape preferred) or placing batteries in individual plastic bags. This prevents short circuits when batteries contact each other or metal objects during collection, transport, and storage. Short circuits generate heat that can ignite fires. While some collection programs may accept batteries without taped terminals, you protect yourself, collection facility staff, and waste handlers by taking this simple precaution. For 9-volt batteries with side-by-side terminals, taping is especially critical due to their design making terminal-to-terminal contact extremely easy.

Can businesses use the same disposal options as individual consumers?

Small quantities yes, but with important distinctions. Businesses generating small amounts of batteries can use retail collection programs like Call2Recycle drop-offs at major stores—these programs don’t typically distinguish between business and consumer generators for small volumes. However, businesses face regulatory obligations under RCRA that households don’t. Commercial entities must determine if their waste qualifies as hazardous (most lithium-ion batteries do) and manage accordingly. Businesses should document disposal through retention of receipts, weight tickets, or certificates of recycling to demonstrate compliance. For larger volumes or regular generation, businesses benefit from establishing accounts with commercial recycling vendors who provide compliant service including proper documentation, periodic pickup, and liability coverage.

Key Takeaways

Lithium batteries require specialized disposal through certified recycling programs to prevent fires and enable material recovery
Call2Recycle operates over 34,000 drop-off locations across the U.S., primarily through major retailers like Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Best Buy
Always tape battery terminals or place batteries in individual plastic bags before disposal to prevent short circuits
Damaged or swollen batteries require immediate isolation and special handling through household hazardous waste facilities, not retail programs
Recycling lithium batteries recovers 95% of critical minerals like cobalt and lithium, reducing environmental impact and supporting circular economy goals

References

Environmental Protection Agency – Used Lithium-Ion Batteries – https://www.epa.gov/recycle/used-lithium-ion-batteries (Updated August 2025)
Call2Recycle – Battery Recycling Locator – https://www.call2recycle.org/locator/ (Accessed November 2025)
Nature Reviews Clean Technology – The Evolution of Lithium-Ion Battery Recycling – https://www.nature.com/articles/s44359-024-00010-4 (January 2025)
Global Market Insights – Lithium-Ion Battery Recycling Market Report – https://www.gminsights.com/industry-analysis/lithium-ion-battery-recycling-market (March 2025)
EPA – Frequent Questions on Lithium-Ion Batteries – https://www.epa.gov/recycle/frequent-questions-lithium-ion-batteries (May 2025)
Washington State Department of Ecology – Lithium-Ion Battery Guidance – https://ecology.wa.gov/regulations-permits/guidance-technical-assistance/dangerous-waste-guidance/common-dangerous-waste/batteries/lithium-ion-batteries (2025)
U.S. Department of Transportation – Safety Advisory Notice for Lithium Battery Transportation – https://www.phmsa.dot.gov (May 2022)
Fire Rover – 2025 Waste Industry Safety Report (Industry publication, 2025)
International Energy Agency – Global EV Outlook 2025 (2025)
U.S. Geological Survey – Critical Minerals List – https://www.usgs.gov (2024)