This segment originally aired on “Live in the D”.
They keep going and going … batteries, of course! They’re in everything — toothbrushes, remotes, computer mice, kids’ toys, phones, computers, laptops, power tools, lawn care equipment. You get the picture.
Did you know that the average house goes through 90 batteries a year?! That’s a loooooot of batteries. But anybody will tell you the worst day for a battery is when it dies. What happens then?
The first thing to know when the inevitable happens is batteries aren’t accepted in curbside recycling.
Why? Batteries contain a toxic chemical that could harm recycling center workers. And they can be a fire hazard. So when it comes to batteries, safety is king!
Know your options
Some places have special drop-off locations for recycling batteries. It’s also common to have community events several times a year where folks can drop off their hazardous materials.
Your options could include:
- Your local recycling provider
- Retailers like Staples, Home Depot, Lowe’s, etc.
- Automotive parts supply stores for recycling car batteries
- Mail-in companies
Not sure where to start? We’ve put together a handy-dandy list of providers and a battery recycling locator to make things easier. Check it out.
Types of batteries
Most of us probably think of batteries only in terms of AA or AAA, maybe a 9-volt or when charging our phone. But knowing the different types of batteries can help you be a better battery recycler!
Types of batteries you use every day include:
- AlkalineLike what you use in your TV remote.
- Rechargeable alkalineThe ones you top up and use again.
- Lithium-ionLike what your phone or laptop use.
How to collect batteries to recycle
Whether you’re mailing batteries in or planning to drop them off, having a way to collect them at home is important!
Collection
Mail-in services like Battery Solutions have battery recycling pails you can order to collect batteries in. Make sure to check what type of pail you’re ordering. Some allow you to mix different types of batteries and some don’t!
Fill it
Wait until your pail is full or there’s a special community drop-off event.
Important note: Make sure to tape both ends of your batteries before putting them in your pail!
Recycle
Once your pail is ready, you can mail it in or drop it off and start again.