When used properly, batteries aren’t dangerous, but they can present a fire risk when over-charged, short-circuited, submerged in water or damaged.
You should never put batteries into your recycling or waste containers, as they can cause fires in the collection vehicle or at the waste management facility. In addition, batteries need to be collected, transported and recycled separately to make sure the heavy metals they contain (for example, nickel and cadmium) do not leak out and pollute the local environment.
Household batteries, including AA, AAA, ‘button’ and rechargeable batteries, can be recycled at most leading supermarkets and household recycling centres.
Details of local authority recycling facilities can be found on their websites:
Rechargeable batteries
Lithium-ion batteries or li-ion batteries (sometimes called LIBs) are the lightweight, rechargeable batteries that power our phones, laptops and cameras. They’re found in many electrical devices from mobility scooters to e-cigarettes, and are used safely by millions of people every day.
Please follow this guidance to keep your devices and home safe:
- Buy from a reputable retailer – if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
- Always use the charger that came with your phone, tablet, e-cigarette or mobile device. If you need to buy a replacement, always choose a branded, genuine product from a supplier you can trust. There are lots of fakes out there, and it can be difficult to spot the difference.
- Avoid storing, using or charging batteries at very high or low temperatures. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Protect batteries against being damaged – such as being crushed, punctured or immersed in water.
- Don’t leave items continuously on charge after the charge cycle is complete – it’s best not to leave your phone plugged in overnight, for example – and unplug after use.
- Never cover chargers or charging devices, and avoid charging batteries on flammable surfaces like beds or cushions.
- When you travel, check with your flight carrier for information on how best to carry any devices with lithium-ion batteries.
- Don’t overload your sockets.