Battery disposal basics

Secure terminals, keep chemistries identified and use the collection route required in your location.

Reviewed
2026-08-09
Sources
2
Reading time
4 minutes

Prevent short circuits

Tape or otherwise isolate exposed terminals when required by the collection program, especially for lithium and 9 V batteries.

Keep types identified

Do not place leaking, swollen or damaged cells into an ordinary mixed collection container. Follow local hazardous-material guidance.

Use local rules

Recycling and disposal requirements vary. Check your municipal or national program and the battery manufacturer’s instructions.

Decision boundary

This guide narrows a battery decision but does not override the device manufacturer’s current manual or safety instructions.

Sources

  1. U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission — Button Cell and Coin Battery Safety

    Coin-cell ingestion and household handling safety boundary.

  2. Energizer — Battery Replacement Guide

    Cross-reference codes and manufacturer guidance to replace the same size and type together.