From collection to transport, we make safe battery recycling possible.
What Are Damaged Batteries?
Damaged or defective batteries (DD) include any battery that’s swollen, leaking, punctured, or overheating. In some cases, these batteries may also be part of a manufacturer’s recall. Because they carry a higher safety risk, DD batteries need to be handled and recycled separately from everyday household batteries.
Common Signs of Damage:
- Bulging or swelling
- Leakage or strong odor
- Cracked or warped casing
- Burn marks
- Water damage
- Overheating
- Device behaving abnormally while charging
Why Safe Handling is Critical
DD batteries can spark or ignite if stored or transported improperly. Keeping them out of the trash and regular recycling boxes protects collection sites, transportation workers, and your home.
How to Safely Recycle
DD Batteries
- Isolate the battery immediately.
- Place it in non-flammable material such as sand or kitty litter.
- Never put DD batteries in the trash or the Battery Network collection bin.
- Choose a safe drop-off or disposal option.
- Contact your local household hazardous waste (HHW) facility for instructions on where to take the battery.
- If you live in New York or Washington, D.C., you may have additional drop-off options nearby. Use the New York drop-off locator or the Washington, D.C. drop-off locator to find a participating site close to you.
- Or visit our store to buy an approved shipping envelope.
If you have a RECALLED battery, follow steps 1-3 above. Then contact the manufacturer and follow their instructions for disposal and replacement. Recalled batteries are not accepted at The Battery Network’s collection sites.
Not sure if your battery is recalled? Visit the manufacturer’s website to confirm. The Consumer Product Safety Commission also lists active recalls.
