Guide
How to Recycle Batteries Safely: Alkaline, Lithium-Ion and Car Batteries
Last reviewed October 13, 2026
Batteries are the #1 thing people put in the wrong bin. Different types need different handling, and the biggest risk is fire from lithium-ion batteries.
Quick guide by battery type
| Battery | Where it goes |
|---|---|
| Single-use alkaline (AA, AAA, C, D, 9V) | Recycle at a drop-off if you can; trash is allowed in many states but not all |
| Rechargeable (NiMH, NiCd) and lithium-ion (phones, laptops, power tools, e-bikes) | Never trash. Retailer or household hazardous waste drop-off |
| Button / coin cells (watches, hearing aids) | Drop-off — they contain metals that should be recovered |
| Lead-acid (cars, boats, motorcycles) | Auto parts store, scrap yard or hazardous waste site; often pays |
How to prepare batteries for drop-off
- Tape the terminals of lithium, 9V and button cells with clear tape so they can't touch each other.
- Bag them individually or separate them in a non-metal container.
- Keep damaged or swollen batteries separate and tell the staff — don't carry them loose in a hot car.
- Store them in a cool, dry place until you can drop them off.
Where to take them
- Retailer drop-off bins. Many home-improvement and electronics stores have a battery collection bin near the entrance. Check the Call2Recycle locator or ask at the customer service desk.
- Household hazardous waste sites. City or county facilities accept all battery types, often for free.
- Auto parts stores for car batteries.
Find a place near you with our battery recycling locator.
Frequently asked questions
Can I throw away AA and AAA batteries?
Rules differ by state. Federal rules allow single-use alkaline batteries in household trash, but some states, including California, require all batteries to be recycled. Recycling them is always the safer choice if there is a drop-off nearby.
Why are lithium-ion batteries dangerous in the trash?
If they are crushed or punctured in a truck or at a facility, they can short-circuit and start fires. Never put them in the trash or curbside recycling.
Will a store really take my old car battery?
Most auto parts stores accept used lead-acid car batteries, and many give you store credit or a small payment. Some states require retailers to accept them when you buy a new one.
Rules vary by state, city and facility. Confirm with your local waste authority or the facility before you go.