Battery Recycling Guide — Types, Drop-Off & Disposal (2026)
Quick Summary
Not all batteries are created equal. Alkaline (AA/AAA) can go in the trash in most places — but recycling is better. Lithium-ion, rechargeable, button cell, and lead-acid batteries must be recycled. Tape terminals on lithium batteries before disposal. Free drop-off at most retailers.
On This Page
Battery Types & Disposal Rules
| Type | Examples | Disposal | Free Recycling |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alkaline | AA, AAA, C, D, 9V | Trash OK (most states) | Best Buy, HHW |
| Lithium-Ion | Phone, laptop, power tool | Must recycle | Best Buy, Staples, Home Depot |
| Rechargeable (NiMH/NiCd) | Older power tools, cordless phones | Must recycle | Best Buy, Staples, HHW |
| Lead-Acid (car/boat) | Car, truck, boat batteries | Must recycle | AutoZone, O'Reilly |
| Button Cell | Watch, hearing aid, key fob | Must recycle | Batteries+Bulbs, HHW |
| Lithium Primary | Camera, key fob (non-rechargeable) | Must recycle | Best Buy, HHW |
| EV/Hybrid | Tesla, Prius, Leaf | Specialized | Greentec, dealerships |
How to Prepare Batteries for Recycling
Proper preparation prevents short circuits and fires during transport:
- Tape terminals: Use electrical tape or original battery caps to cover terminals. Essential for lithium-ion — a short circuit between exposed terminals can cause a fire.
- Store in original packaging: Keep in blister packs or use individual plastic bags per type.
- Don't mix types: Different chemistries need different processes. Keep alkaline, lithium, rechargeable, and button cells separate.
- Damaged batteries: If swollen, leaking, or damaged, handle with gloves. Place in a fireproof container and inform the recycler.
Where to Recycle Batteries
Retail Drop-Off (Fastest)
Best Buy: Rechargeable, lithium-ion, and button cells. Free, walk-in, limit 3 items/day.
Staples: Rechargeable batteries and cell phones. Free, up to 7 items/day.
Home Depot: Call2Recycle bins at all locations. Rechargeable batteries and cell phones. Free, no limit.
Batteries+Bulbs: Widest range — alkaline, lithium, rechargeable, button cell, lead-acid. Free. Some locations charge for alkaline.
Auto Parts Stores (Car Batteries)
AutoZone, O'Reilly, Advance Auto Parts: Accept old car batteries for free — any brand, no receipt needed. You get the core charge refund ($5-15) when you return a battery.
Municipal HHW Facilities
Most cities accept all battery types for free at household hazardous waste facilities. Check your local directory: Phoenix, Atlanta, Raleigh, Tampa, Nashville.
Why Battery Recycling Is Critical
Batteries contain valuable materials that can be recovered indefinitely. Lead-acid batteries are the most recycled product in the US at 99%. Lithium-ion recycling recovers cobalt, nickel, lithium, and copper — materials that require environmentally destructive mining.
Every lithium-ion battery in the trash creates a fire risk during collection or processing. Proper recycling is both environmentally responsible and a public safety measure.