Where to Recycle All Sorts Of Batteries
If you're anything like me, you've probably got a drawer harboring dozens of worn-out batteries (and maybe an electric toothbrush) that you don't know what to do with. Today, that confusion ends.
Here's all you need to know about recycling batteries and cordless gadgets.
TL;DR - check out this chart.
There are two main categories of batteries: single-use batteries which are batteries that can only hold one charge before they are useless, and rechargeable batteries which can be charged again and again. Rechargeable batteries are becoming much more common as cellphones, laptops, tablets, and cordless tools become more popular.
Disposal options vary by battery type, so let's break them down.
Single-Use Batteries
ALKALINE, Single-Use
Alkaline batteries, originally developed in the ’60s, no longer contain the high levels of mercury they once did. The Illinois EPA and all states except California agree that alkaline batteries can be safely disposed of in the trash.
Commonly identified as: alkaline, zero mercury, or 0%Hg
Disposal: Alkaline batteries are the only batteries that can safely be placed in the trash cart. No batteries of any kind should be placed in City recycling carts.
Recycling of alkaline batteries is possible through mail-in recycling programs, for a fee. Battery Solutions and Big Green Box offer such programs. If you know of any free, certified recycling programs in Chicago, please let us know at hello@recyclebycity.com or on social media at @recyclebycity.
LITHIUM, Single-Use
Coin batteries for watches are often lithium. More recently, lithium batteries have been showing up in standard size A-AAA, C, D, and 9V sizes as well. Because they can hold a charge longer than alkaline batteries and pack a lot of power into a small size, single-use lithium are a favorite for cameras and game controllers too.
Commonly identified as: lithium, Li, primary lithium, lithium metal
Disposal: Lithium batteries cannot be disposed of in City recycling or garbage carts because they can combust just like rechargeable batteries can. Check the chart below for disposal options.
Rechargeable Batteries
Rechargeable batteries come in all shapes and sizes and can be designed to be removable or built-in. Rechargeable batteries are also sold in standard sizes as a less wasteful replacement to single-use batteries.
THE GOOD:
Improvements in battery manufacturing have made rechargeable less expensive, more powerful and dependable than they were a decade ago. Rechargeable batteries are generally smaller than single-use ones and produce less waste because they can be used again and again. Some types of rechargeable batteries can be recharged up to 1000 times.
If you haven’t considered replacing your single-use batteries with rechargeable ones, now’s a good time to give it a go. Though they cost 2 - 3 times more initially, they can save a good deal of money and waste in the long run.
THE BAD:
One tradeoff for the extra power and convenience of rechargeable batteries is that they can explode or spark fires if not disposed of properly.
Rechargeable batteries are responsible for starting fires in collection trucks, recycling facilities, and landfills. Unlike single-use batteries, rechargeable batteries can spark even after they’re drained of power so they pose a real hazard. They can also combust if crushed, dropped, or overheated. Rechargeable battery recycling programs ensure safe disposal and the recovery of precious, limited-supply heavy metals like cobalt, which is reused to make new batteries and electronics.
Commonly identified as: Lithium Ion, Li-Ion, Nickel Metal Hydride, Ni-MH, Nickel Cadmium, NiCd, Small Sealed Lead Acid (SSLA/Pb)
Disposal: All rechargeable batteries, including auto batteries and devices with built-in rechargeable batteries, can be dropped off at the City of Chicago’s Household Chemical and Computer Recycling Facility (HCCRF) for recycling. The HCCRF accepts all batteries except single-use alkaline batteries.
Most national electronic retailers provide battery recycling programs for removable rechargeable batteries, see chart below. Do not place rechargeable batteries in City recycling or garbage carts.
Prepping Batteries for Storage and Transport
Remove batteries that are designed to be removed because you'll have more disposal options. Never attempt to remove built-in batteries because they can explode.
Safety first! For storage and transportation, place tape over the battery contacts or place them into individual plastic bags. Exposed battery contacts can spark and cause fires.
Battery & Cordless Gadget Recycling
-
Select item
-
Alkaline, Single-Use (1)
Disposal options
Garbage
Notes
Alkaline (single-use) batteries are the only batteries that can be safely disposed of in the trash.
-
Auto & Boat Batteries (1)
Note
Don't leave money on the table. Take auto and boat batteries (and your receipt) back to the place where you bought them to collect your 'core' deposit. Core deposits start at $10 and can be much higher.
Disposal options
Household Chemical & Computer Recycling Facility
Recycling Programs
- cell phones
- computer and computer equipment
- hazardous household chemicals
- oil-based paints and stains
- rechargeable batteries
DetailsHousehold Chemical and Computer Recycling Facility
Map & hours of operation
-
Cell Phones (7)
Note
Take advantage of Trade-In programs - better for your wallet, better for the planet.
Disposal options
Household Chemical & Computer Recycling Facility
Recycling Programs
- cell phones
- computer and computer equipment
- hazardous household chemicals
- oil-based paints and stains
- rechargeable batteries
DetailsHousehold Chemical and Computer Recycling Facility
Map & hours of operation
Best Buy
Recycling Programs
• cell phones
• computers and equipment
• plastic bags
• ink cartridges
• compact fluorescent lightbulbsLimits
Three recyclable items per visit, No TVs, other restrictions may apply
Details
Trade-In Programs
Various cell phones, tablets, laptops, game consoles, and even DSLR cameras can be traded in with Best Buy to earn credit or discounts towards new equipment. Trading, selling, or donating goods provides much greater environmental benefits than recycling. Better for the planet, and better for your wallet.
Check out the trade-in value of your gear at the link below.
Details
Best Buy Trade-In Program
Map & hours of operation
Goodwill
Recycling Programs
- Cellphones
- Computer Equipment
- Ink Cartridges
- Office Equipment
limits
No TVs, other restrictions may apply
details
Map & hours of operation
Lowe's
Recycling Programs
- cell phones
- compact fluorescent lightbulbs
- plastic bags
- plastic plant pots and tags (Lowe's Garden Centers)
- rechargeable batteries
Limits
five recyclable items per visit, other restrictions apply.
Details
Map & hours of operation
Target
Recycling Programs
- aluminum, glass, and plastic beverage containers
- cell phones
- ink cartridges
- MP3 players
- plastic bags
- rechargeable batteries
- compact fluorescent lightbulbs
limits
No TVs, other restrictions may apply
details
Trade-In Programs
Trade in cell phones, tablets, game consoles, wearables, voice speakers and more and get a Target Gift Card in return. Visit the link below to estimate the trade-in value of your gear, and get a pre-paid shipping label. Trade-ins are not accepted in local stores.
details
Target Tech Trade-In Program Details
Map & hours of operation
The Home Depot
Recycling Programs
- cell phones
- rechargeable batteries
- plastic bags
Map & hours of operation
Staples
Recycling Programs
• cell phones
• compact fluorescent lightbulbs
• computers and equipment
• ink cartridges
• plastic bags
• rechargeable batteriesLimits
7 recycling items per day. No TVs. Other restrictions may apply.
Details
Staples Electronics Recycling Program
Trade-In Programs
Trade in your working cell phones, tablets, laptops, and game consoles and even DSLR cameras to earn instant credit or discounts towards new equipment.
Visit the link below to get the trade-in value of your gear. Trade-ins accepted in-store and by mail.details
Map & hours of operation
-
Cordless Headphones & Ear Buds (2)
Disposal options
Household Chemical & Computer Recycling Facility
Recycling Programs
- cell phones
- computer and computer equipment
- hazardous household chemicals
- oil-based paints and stains
- rechargeable batteries
DetailsHousehold Chemical and Computer Recycling Facility
Map & hours of operation
Best Buy
Recycling Programs
• cell phones
• computers and equipment
• plastic bags
• ink cartridges
• compact fluorescent lightbulbsLimits
Three recyclable items per visit, No TVs, other restrictions may apply
Details
Trade-In Programs
Various cell phones, tablets, laptops, game consoles, and even DSLR cameras can be traded in with Best Buy to earn credit or discounts towards new equipment. Trading, selling, or donating goods provides much greater environmental benefits than recycling. Better for the planet, and better for your wallet.
Check out the trade-in value of your gear at the link below.
Details
Best Buy Trade-In Program
Map & hours of operation
-
Cordless Phones (4)
Disposal options
Household Chemical & Computer Recycling Facility
Recycling Programs
- cell phones
- computer and computer equipment
- hazardous household chemicals
- oil-based paints and stains
- rechargeable batteries
DetailsHousehold Chemical and Computer Recycling Facility
Map & hours of operation
Best Buy
Recycling Programs
• cell phones
• computers and equipment
• plastic bags
• ink cartridges
• compact fluorescent lightbulbsLimits
Three recyclable items per visit, No TVs, other restrictions may apply
Details
Trade-In Programs
Various cell phones, tablets, laptops, game consoles, and even DSLR cameras can be traded in with Best Buy to earn credit or discounts towards new equipment. Trading, selling, or donating goods provides much greater environmental benefits than recycling. Better for the planet, and better for your wallet.
Check out the trade-in value of your gear at the link below.
Details
Best Buy Trade-In Program
Map & hours of operation
Goodwill
Recycling Programs
- Cellphones
- Computer Equipment
- Ink Cartridges
- Office Equipment
limits
No TVs, other restrictions may apply
details
Map & hours of operation
Staples
Recycling Programs
• cell phones
• compact fluorescent lightbulbs
• computers and equipment
• ink cartridges
• plastic bags
• rechargeable batteriesLimits
7 recycling items per day. No TVs. Other restrictions may apply.
Details
Staples Electronics Recycling Program
Trade-In Programs
Trade in your working cell phones, tablets, laptops, and game consoles and even DSLR cameras to earn instant credit or discounts towards new equipment.
Visit the link below to get the trade-in value of your gear. Trade-ins accepted in-store and by mail.details
Map & hours of operation
-
Cordless Vacuums & Robots (2)
Disposal options
Household Chemical & Computer Recycling Facility
Recycling Programs
- cell phones
- computer and computer equipment
- hazardous household chemicals
- oil-based paints and stains
- rechargeable batteries
DetailsHousehold Chemical and Computer Recycling Facility
Map & hours of operation
Best Buy
Recycling Programs
• cell phones
• computers and equipment
• plastic bags
• ink cartridges
• compact fluorescent lightbulbsLimits
Three recyclable items per visit, No TVs, other restrictions may apply
Details
Trade-In Programs
Various cell phones, tablets, laptops, game consoles, and even DSLR cameras can be traded in with Best Buy to earn credit or discounts towards new equipment. Trading, selling, or donating goods provides much greater environmental benefits than recycling. Better for the planet, and better for your wallet.
Check out the trade-in value of your gear at the link below.
Details
Best Buy Trade-In Program
Map & hours of operation
-
Drones (1)
Disposal options
Household Chemical & Computer Recycling Facility
Recycling Programs
- cell phones
- computer and computer equipment
- hazardous household chemicals
- oil-based paints and stains
- rechargeable batteries
DetailsHousehold Chemical and Computer Recycling Facility
Map & hours of operation
-
E-cigarette batteries (1)
Disposal options
Household Chemical & Computer Recycling Facility
Recycling Programs
- cell phones
- computer and computer equipment
- hazardous household chemicals
- oil-based paints and stains
- rechargeable batteries
DetailsHousehold Chemical and Computer Recycling Facility
Map & hours of operation
-
Electric Toothbrushes (1)
Disposal options
Household Chemical & Computer Recycling Facility
Recycling Programs
- cell phones
- computer and computer equipment
- hazardous household chemicals
- oil-based paints and stains
- rechargeable batteries
DetailsHousehold Chemical and Computer Recycling Facility
Map & hours of operation
-
Hoverboards (1)
Disposal options
Household Chemical & Computer Recycling Facility
Recycling Programs
- cell phones
- computer and computer equipment
- hazardous household chemicals
- oil-based paints and stains
- rechargeable batteries
DetailsHousehold Chemical and Computer Recycling Facility
Map & hours of operation
-
Laptops (5)
Note
Take advantage of Trade-In programs for newer devices - better for your wallet, better for the planet.
Disposal options
Household Chemical & Computer Recycling Facility
Recycling Programs
- cell phones
- computer and computer equipment
- hazardous household chemicals
- oil-based paints and stains
- rechargeable batteries
DetailsHousehold Chemical and Computer Recycling Facility
Map & hours of operation
Best Buy
Recycling Programs
• cell phones
• computers and equipment
• plastic bags
• ink cartridges
• compact fluorescent lightbulbsLimits
Three recyclable items per visit, No TVs, other restrictions may apply
Details
Trade-In Programs
Various cell phones, tablets, laptops, game consoles, and even DSLR cameras can be traded in with Best Buy to earn credit or discounts towards new equipment. Trading, selling, or donating goods provides much greater environmental benefits than recycling. Better for the planet, and better for your wallet.
Check out the trade-in value of your gear at the link below.
Details
Best Buy Trade-In Program
Map & hours of operation
Goodwill
Recycling Programs
- Cellphones
- Computer Equipment
- Ink Cartridges
- Office Equipment
limits
No TVs, other restrictions may apply
details
Map & hours of operation
Staples
Recycling Programs
• cell phones
• compact fluorescent lightbulbs
• computers and equipment
• ink cartridges
• plastic bags
• rechargeable batteriesLimits
7 recycling items per day. No TVs. Other restrictions may apply.
Details
Staples Electronics Recycling Program
Trade-In Programs
Trade in your working cell phones, tablets, laptops, and game consoles and even DSLR cameras to earn instant credit or discounts towards new equipment.
Visit the link below to get the trade-in value of your gear. Trade-ins accepted in-store and by mail.details
Map & hours of operation
Target
Recycling Programs
- aluminum, glass, and plastic beverage containers
- cell phones
- ink cartridges
- MP3 players
- plastic bags
- rechargeable batteries
- compact fluorescent lightbulbs
limits
No TVs, other restrictions may apply
details
Trade-In Programs
Trade in cell phones, tablets, game consoles, wearables, voice speakers and more and get a Target Gift Card in return. Visit the link below to estimate the trade-in value of your gear, and get a pre-paid shipping label. Trade-ins are not accepted in local stores.
details
Target Tech Trade-In Program Details
Map & hours of operation
-
Lithium, Single-Use (1)
Disposal options
Household Chemical & Computer Recycling Facility
Recycling Programs
- cell phones
- computer and computer equipment
- hazardous household chemicals
- oil-based paints and stains
- rechargeable batteries
DetailsHousehold Chemical and Computer Recycling Facility
Map & hours of operation
-
MP3 Players (5)
Disposal options
Household Chemical & Computer Recycling Facility
Recycling Programs
- cell phones
- computer and computer equipment
- hazardous household chemicals
- oil-based paints and stains
- rechargeable batteries
DetailsHousehold Chemical and Computer Recycling Facility
Map & hours of operation
Best Buy
Recycling Programs
• cell phones
• computers and equipment
• plastic bags
• ink cartridges
• compact fluorescent lightbulbsLimits
Three recyclable items per visit, No TVs, other restrictions may apply
Details
Trade-In Programs
Various cell phones, tablets, laptops, game consoles, and even DSLR cameras can be traded in with Best Buy to earn credit or discounts towards new equipment. Trading, selling, or donating goods provides much greater environmental benefits than recycling. Better for the planet, and better for your wallet.
Check out the trade-in value of your gear at the link below.
Details
Best Buy Trade-In Program
Map & hours of operation
Goodwill
Recycling Programs
- Cellphones
- Computer Equipment
- Ink Cartridges
- Office Equipment
limits
No TVs, other restrictions may apply
details
Map & hours of operation
Staples
Recycling Programs
• cell phones
• compact fluorescent lightbulbs
• computers and equipment
• ink cartridges
• plastic bags
• rechargeable batteriesLimits
7 recycling items per day. No TVs. Other restrictions may apply.
Details
Staples Electronics Recycling Program
Trade-In Programs
Trade in your working cell phones, tablets, laptops, and game consoles and even DSLR cameras to earn instant credit or discounts towards new equipment.
Visit the link below to get the trade-in value of your gear. Trade-ins accepted in-store and by mail.details
Map & hours of operation
Target
Recycling Programs
- aluminum, glass, and plastic beverage containers
- cell phones
- ink cartridges
- MP3 players
- plastic bags
- rechargeable batteries
- compact fluorescent lightbulbs
limits
No TVs, other restrictions may apply
details
Trade-In Programs
Trade in cell phones, tablets, game consoles, wearables, voice speakers and more and get a Target Gift Card in return. Visit the link below to estimate the trade-in value of your gear, and get a pre-paid shipping label. Trade-ins are not accepted in local stores.
details
Target Tech Trade-In Program Details
Map & hours of operation
-
Power Banks (6)
Disposal options
Household Chemical & Computer Recycling Facility
Recycling Programs
- cell phones
- computer and computer equipment
- hazardous household chemicals
- oil-based paints and stains
- rechargeable batteries
DetailsHousehold Chemical and Computer Recycling Facility
Map & hours of operation
Best Buy
Recycling Programs
• cell phones
• computers and equipment
• plastic bags
• ink cartridges
• compact fluorescent lightbulbsLimits
Three recyclable items per visit, No TVs, other restrictions may apply
Details
Trade-In Programs
Various cell phones, tablets, laptops, game consoles, and even DSLR cameras can be traded in with Best Buy to earn credit or discounts towards new equipment. Trading, selling, or donating goods provides much greater environmental benefits than recycling. Better for the planet, and better for your wallet.
Check out the trade-in value of your gear at the link below.
Details
Best Buy Trade-In Program
Map & hours of operation
Lowe's
Recycling Programs
- cell phones
- compact fluorescent lightbulbs
- plastic bags
- plastic plant pots and tags (Lowe's Garden Centers)
- rechargeable batteries
Limits
five recyclable items per visit, other restrictions apply.
Details
Map & hours of operation
Staples
Recycling Programs
• cell phones
• compact fluorescent lightbulbs
• computers and equipment
• ink cartridges
• plastic bags
• rechargeable batteriesLimits
7 recycling items per day. No TVs. Other restrictions may apply.
Details
Staples Electronics Recycling Program
Trade-In Programs
Trade in your working cell phones, tablets, laptops, and game consoles and even DSLR cameras to earn instant credit or discounts towards new equipment.
Visit the link below to get the trade-in value of your gear. Trade-ins accepted in-store and by mail.details
Map & hours of operation
Target
Recycling Programs
- aluminum, glass, and plastic beverage containers
- cell phones
- ink cartridges
- MP3 players
- plastic bags
- rechargeable batteries
- compact fluorescent lightbulbs
limits
No TVs, other restrictions may apply
details
Trade-In Programs
Trade in cell phones, tablets, game consoles, wearables, voice speakers and more and get a Target Gift Card in return. Visit the link below to estimate the trade-in value of your gear, and get a pre-paid shipping label. Trade-ins are not accepted in local stores.
details
Target Tech Trade-In Program Details
Map & hours of operation
The Home Depot
Recycling Programs
- cell phones
- rechargeable batteries
- plastic bags
Map & hours of operation
-
Power Tool Batteries (5)
Disposal options
Household Chemical & Computer Recycling Facility
Recycling Programs
- cell phones
- computer and computer equipment
- hazardous household chemicals
- oil-based paints and stains
- rechargeable batteries
DetailsHousehold Chemical and Computer Recycling Facility
Map & hours of operation
Lowe's
Recycling Programs
- cell phones
- compact fluorescent lightbulbs
- plastic bags
- plastic plant pots and tags (Lowe's Garden Centers)
- rechargeable batteries
Limits
five recyclable items per visit, other restrictions apply.
Details
Map & hours of operation
Staples
Recycling Programs
• cell phones
• compact fluorescent lightbulbs
• computers and equipment
• ink cartridges
• plastic bags
• rechargeable batteriesLimits
7 recycling items per day. No TVs. Other restrictions may apply.
Details
Staples Electronics Recycling Program
Trade-In Programs
Trade in your working cell phones, tablets, laptops, and game consoles and even DSLR cameras to earn instant credit or discounts towards new equipment.
Visit the link below to get the trade-in value of your gear. Trade-ins accepted in-store and by mail.details
Map & hours of operation
Target
Recycling Programs
- aluminum, glass, and plastic beverage containers
- cell phones
- ink cartridges
- MP3 players
- plastic bags
- rechargeable batteries
- compact fluorescent lightbulbs
limits
No TVs, other restrictions may apply
details
Trade-In Programs
Trade in cell phones, tablets, game consoles, wearables, voice speakers and more and get a Target Gift Card in return. Visit the link below to estimate the trade-in value of your gear, and get a pre-paid shipping label. Trade-ins are not accepted in local stores.
details
Target Tech Trade-In Program Details
Map & hours of operation
The Home Depot
Recycling Programs
- cell phones
- rechargeable batteries
- plastic bags
Map & hours of operation
-
Rechargeable Batteries (5)
Note
Standard size batteries and battery packs, under 11 pounds
Disposal options
Household Chemical & Computer Recycling Facility
Recycling Programs
- cell phones
- computer and computer equipment
- hazardous household chemicals
- oil-based paints and stains
- rechargeable batteries
DetailsHousehold Chemical and Computer Recycling Facility
Map & hours of operation
Lowe's
Recycling Programs
- cell phones
- compact fluorescent lightbulbs
- plastic bags
- plastic plant pots and tags (Lowe's Garden Centers)
- rechargeable batteries
Limits
five recyclable items per visit, other restrictions apply.
Details
Map & hours of operation
Staples
Recycling Programs
• cell phones
• compact fluorescent lightbulbs
• computers and equipment
• ink cartridges
• plastic bags
• rechargeable batteriesLimits
7 recycling items per day. No TVs. Other restrictions may apply.
Details
Staples Electronics Recycling Program
Trade-In Programs
Trade in your working cell phones, tablets, laptops, and game consoles and even DSLR cameras to earn instant credit or discounts towards new equipment.
Visit the link below to get the trade-in value of your gear. Trade-ins accepted in-store and by mail.details
Map & hours of operation
Target
Recycling Programs
- aluminum, glass, and plastic beverage containers
- cell phones
- ink cartridges
- MP3 players
- plastic bags
- rechargeable batteries
- compact fluorescent lightbulbs
limits
No TVs, other restrictions may apply
details
Trade-In Programs
Trade in cell phones, tablets, game consoles, wearables, voice speakers and more and get a Target Gift Card in return. Visit the link below to estimate the trade-in value of your gear, and get a pre-paid shipping label. Trade-ins are not accepted in local stores.
details
Target Tech Trade-In Program Details
Map & hours of operation
The Home Depot
Recycling Programs
- cell phones
- rechargeable batteries
- plastic bags
Map & hours of operation
-
Tablets & E-readers (4)
Note
Take advantage of Trade-In programs for newer devices - better for your wallet, better for the planet.
Disposal options
Household Chemical & Computer Recycling Facility
Recycling Programs
- cell phones
- computer and computer equipment
- hazardous household chemicals
- oil-based paints and stains
- rechargeable batteries
DetailsHousehold Chemical and Computer Recycling Facility
Map & hours of operation
Best Buy
Recycling Programs
• cell phones
• computers and equipment
• plastic bags
• ink cartridges
• compact fluorescent lightbulbsLimits
Three recyclable items per visit, No TVs, other restrictions may apply
Details
Trade-In Programs
Various cell phones, tablets, laptops, game consoles, and even DSLR cameras can be traded in with Best Buy to earn credit or discounts towards new equipment. Trading, selling, or donating goods provides much greater environmental benefits than recycling. Better for the planet, and better for your wallet.
Check out the trade-in value of your gear at the link below.
Details
Best Buy Trade-In Program
Map & hours of operation
Goodwill
Recycling Programs
- Cellphones
- Computer Equipment
- Ink Cartridges
- Office Equipment
limits
No TVs, other restrictions may apply
details
Map & hours of operation
Staples
Recycling Programs
• cell phones
• compact fluorescent lightbulbs
• computers and equipment
• ink cartridges
• plastic bags
• rechargeable batteriesLimits
7 recycling items per day. No TVs. Other restrictions may apply.
Details
Staples Electronics Recycling Program
Trade-In Programs
Trade in your working cell phones, tablets, laptops, and game consoles and even DSLR cameras to earn instant credit or discounts towards new equipment.
Visit the link below to get the trade-in value of your gear. Trade-ins accepted in-store and by mail.details
Map & hours of operation
