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How to Dispose of Batteries

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Disposing of Alkaline Batteries

Most places don’t accept single-use alkaline batteries for recycling. You can’t take single-use batteries to Call2Recycle drop-off sites at The Home Depot.

In most places, you can put alkaline batteries, such as AA, AAA and D batteries, in the trash. They can be carried out to the curb with the rest of your household garbage. Many landfills will also accept trash bags that contain alkaline batteries. However, in the state of California, it is illegal to throw away any kind of battery, including alkaline batteries.

Even when single-use batteries can no longer run devices, they can still produce current. They can be hazardous if discarded improperly. Collect used household batteries in a container. A cardboard box or plastic tub is a safe option. Prevent any fire risk by taping 9-volt battery terminals before getting rid of them. You can use a piece of masking, electrical or duct tape.

Recycling Single-Use Batteries

Alkaline batteries, like AA, AAA and D batteries can be harmful to the environment when thrown away. You should recycle them when possible.

Alkaline batteries are not accepted at The Home Depot or at most places that offer battery recycling. Instead of dropping off your alkaline batteries in person, you can mail order a recycling kit for them. Call2Recycle is one of the companies that offer mail-in battery recycling kits. The kit comes with a container that you can use to collect dead single-use batteries.

When the container gets full, you can mail your alkaline batteries to a recycling center. The fees for the recycling kits vary, depending on the size of the batteries and the company you chose for your recycling.