What should I do if my lithium battery is swollen?

STOP using immediately. Don't puncture, compress, or charge. Place in a fire-resistant container away from flammable materials. Take to a hazardous waste facility or electronics store that accepts damaged batteries. Never put in regular trash.

Can lithium-ion batteries really start fires?

Yes. Thermal runaway can cause batteries to reach 1,000°F, emit toxic gases, and ignite nearby materials. This risk increases dramatically with physical damage, overcharging, or exposure to heat.

How do I know if a battery is lithium-ion?

Look for 'Li-ion', 'Li-Po', or voltage markings like 3.7V. They're rechargeable and found in modern electronics. If unsure, treat as lithium-ion for safety.

Why can't I just throw old batteries in the trash?

They can start fires in garbage trucks and landfills, contaminate groundwater with toxic metals, and waste valuable materials. Many states legally require proper disposal.

What happens during lithium battery recycling?

Batteries are discharged safely, disassembled in controlled environments, and materials are separated. Lithium, cobalt, and nickel are extracted and purified for new battery production.

Can businesses recycle lithium batteries in bulk?

Yes! Many facilities offer business programs with pickup services, proper documentation for compliance, and sometimes revenue sharing for large quantities. Essential for IT asset disposition and facilities management.

Batteries recycling

How to Recycle Lithium-Ion Batteries

Rechargeable batteries found in phones, laptops, e-bikes, and electric vehicles. Lithium-ion batteries are the fastest growing type of hazardous waste and pose significant fire risks if improperly handled.

Recyclable$0 for recycling, but some trade-in programs offer creditUpdated Jun 2026

Quick answer

Yes, but never in curbside recycling or the trash: damaged lithium-ion batteries spark fires in bins and trucks. Tape the terminals, keep them out of heat, and drop them at a battery-recycling point like Call2Recycle, Home Depot, Lowe's, or Best Buy. Most are free and take phone, tool, and laptop packs.

Recyclable: Yes
Typical value: $0 for recycling, but some trade-in programs offer credit
Donate / take-back: Available

How to Prepare

1SAFETY FIRST: Never handle damaged, swollen, or hot batteries with bare hands
2

How to Recycle Lithium-Ion Batteries

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How to Recycle Lithium-Ion Batteries

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