Battery Disposal

Batteries are a very common household product. Whether they are for children’s toys, watches, computers, etc. batteries are everywhere. It is often hard to remember which types of batteries are safe for regular trash disposal and which are dangerous and must be handled and disposed of properly. One of our most common calls to the recycling department are questions regarding batteries. The main types of batteries out there are Alkaline, Nickel-Cadmium rechargeable batteries, button batteries, and lithium batteries, so when disposing of them please take care as to which you have.

Alkaline Batteries - These are your traditional AAA, AA, C, D and 9 volt batteries. All batteries made since 1994 contain no added mercury and only contain trace amounts that are not hazardous. Because of this they CAN be disposed of in your regular trash. Alkaline batteries will be labeled with “no added mercury” or with a green tree logo.

Nickel-Cadmium Rechargeable Batteries (NiCads) - These types of batteries come in many different shapes and sizes and are marked as rechargeable. Nickel-Cadmium rechargeable batteries contain cadmium which is a type of metal that is toxic to humans when inhaled or ingested. DO NOT dispose of these batteries in the trash. Store them in a vented, non-metal container and place each battery in a separate plastic bag before storing them all together. Visit Call2Recycle to find the nearest retail location in Waltham where you can recycle rechargeable batteries for free. Can also be taken to the Minuteman Hazardous Waste Facility in Lexington, MA.

Button Batteries - These are small, round, silver-colored batteries that are usually used in watches and hearing aids. Many button batteries contain mercury, which is toxic to humans, and therefore DO NOT dispose of them in the trash. When storing these batteries for disposal, keep them in a secure, dry place out of the reach of children and pets. They are small and easy to swallow. Many stores selling watches or hearing aids will accept used button batteries or you can bring them to the Minuteman Hazardous Waste Facility in Lexington, MA.

Lithium Batteries - These are some AA, C, 9 Volt and button batteries and are mainly used in computers and cameras. Lithium is reactive with water and has been known to cause serious fires. Because of this DO NOT dispose of Lithium batteries in the trash. Take these batteries to the Minuteman Hazardous Waste Facility in Lexington, MA.

If you would like to dispose of Nickel Cadmium, Button, or Lithium batteries please take them to the Minuteman Hazardous Waste Facility in Lexington, MA. The town covers the cost for all residents to bring their hazardous waste products, like batteries, for one weekend a month, April- November. For all of the exact dates please see this website. If you would like to dispose of hazardous products at any other time please call 1-800-541-8673 to make your own arrangements.