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Safe battery disposal

A 9V battery being taped on the anodes for safe transport
Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy

Safe battery disposal

You can help give new life to those dead batteries. Most households use three main types:

  • alkaline, which power items such as flashlights or TV remote controls;
  • rechargeable versions of those standard alkaline batteries; and
  • lithium-ion, found in gadgets such as mobile phones, laptops and vape pens.

While some batteries, such as today’s alkaline variety, are safe to include in your regular household trash, most are not because of the chemicals they contain. Regardless, recycling is always the best option.

As with any other material, battery recycling frees up landfill space and gives manufacturers resources for making new products. Some companies even specialize in helping households recycle their old batteries. Keep scrolling for tips and considerations on how you can boost the environment and the economy by recycling batteries the right way.

Check with local hardware or office stores

Stores such as Ace Hardware, Best Buy, Batteries Plus Bulbs, Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Staples also often offer recycling options to customers, including for rechargeable batteries such as those used in tools and cell phones.

Many locations participate in the national Call2Recycle program, which maintains a list of drop-off locations. Call2Recycle also offers shipping options if there’s not a collection location near you.

You can also search the Michigan Recycling Directory to find other nearby collection options and events.

Find a battery drop-off location near you

Check with your local recycling provider

While batteries should not go in curbside recycling bins, it’s always best to check with your local provider for specific rules.

Some recycling drop-off centers have special receptacles for batteries, and many municipalities hold hazardous waste collection events where you can safely dispose of used batteries.

Find your local recycling provider

Take your car battery back to where you bought it

Lead acid batteries are found in most vehicles powered by gasoline or diesel fuel.

It is illegal to put lead acid batteries (such as those used in cars and boats) in Michigan landfills.

However, there's good news - any business that sells them is also required to collect them for recycling! Simply take your old lead acid battery back to where you purchased your new one.

Learn how to safely prepare your old batteries for transport or recycling

Did you know? Most batteries should be taped for transport or recycling.

  • 18V NiCd tool battery

    Lay a stripe of scotch tape over the part of the battery that inserts into the tool. Lay another strip perpendicular (to form a plus shape) across the first strip, covering the battery connections. Done!

  • 9V

    Lay a strip of scotch tape across the top of the battery (the two metal rings poking out). Lay another strip perpendicular (to form a plus shape) to the first one. Done!

  • Button batteries

    Lay the batteries (all facing the same way) on a strip of clear packing tape. Lay another strip of tape over the top of the batteries. Press the tape down on all sides to form a secure package. Done!

  • Cell phone batteries

    Lay a strip of scotch tape across the exposed metal end of the battery. Press firmly down to make sure it sticks. Lay another strip of tape on the other end, pressing firmly. You'll want to cover any of the exposed metal parts. Done!

  • Lithium cells

    Lay the batteries (all facing the same way) on a strip of clear packing tape. Fold the tape over the bottom end. Lay another strip of tape over the top of the batteries. Fold the tape over the top end. Done!