Battery Recycling & Disposal Checker
Check how to recycle or dispose of alkaline, lithium-ion, NiCd, NiMH, lead-acid, button cell, and rechargeable batteries. Get safety steps before you search for a nearby drop-off location.
Based on your device, this is most often a NiCd / nickel-cadmium battery. Check the battery label to confirm.
Search RecycleFind for nearby battery, electronics, auto battery, or hazardous waste drop-off options.
Find Battery Recycling Near MeRead Battery Recycling GuideTake to a rechargeable battery drop-off site or household hazardous waste program.
How to prepare it for recycling or disposal
- 1Tape exposed terminals with clear packing tape or electrical tape.
- 2Keep loose NiCd batteries in a bag or non-metal container.
- 3Do not place NiCd batteries in curbside recycling carts.
Do not put these in curbside bins
- Lithium-ion batteries
- NiCd and NiMH rechargeable batteries
- Button cell and coin batteries
- Lead-acid car batteries
- Swollen, leaking, hot, or damaged batteries
Better drop-off options
- Battery recycling collection boxes
- Household hazardous waste events
- Electronics recycling centers
- Hardware and office supply stores
- Auto parts stores for lead-acid batteries
Nickel-cadmium batteries, often labeled NiCd, Ni-Cd, or nicad, are rechargeable batteries used in older power tools, emergency lighting, cordless phones, toys, and some medical equipment. They should not go in curbside recycling bins.
Use a battery recycling drop-off program or household hazardous waste event for NiCd battery disposal. Tape the terminals, keep damaged packs separate, and check local rules before transporting large quantities.
Rules vary by state and local program. Rechargeable batteries, lithium-ion batteries, button cells, lead-acid batteries, and damaged batteries should be handled as special drop-off items because they can contain metals, corrosive materials, or fire risks.
Single-use alkaline batteries are accepted in household trash in many places, but recycling is still preferred when a local battery collection option is available.
Battery disposal FAQ
How do I recycle rechargeable batteries?
Rechargeable batteries usually need a store drop-off, battery recycling box, manufacturer take-back program, or household hazardous waste site. Tape exposed terminals before drop-off.
How do I dispose of swollen lithium-ion batteries?
Do not mail, crush, puncture, or place swollen lithium-ion batteries in regular trash. Put the battery in a non-metal container, keep it away from heat, and contact your local hazardous waste program.
Where can I recycle batteries near me?
Start with local recycling centers, household hazardous waste programs, hardware stores, electronics retailers, and battery collection boxes. You can also use RecycleFind to search for nearby drop-off locations.
Related battery recycling resources
Battery Recycling Guide
Browse battery types, safety tips, and recycling methods.
Electronics Recycling
Recycle devices that contain rechargeable batteries.
Is It Recyclable?
Search battery-related items and other household materials.
Find Recycling Centers
Search for drop-off locations and recycling facilities near you.