Bulky and special
How to dispose of batteries and vapes safely
Batteries are behind a growing number of fires in bin lorries, recycling plants and waste sites across the UK. When a lithium battery is crushed or punctured, it can burst into flames. That is why batteries and vapes should never go in any bin.
Where to take batteries
- Shops. Shops that sell a lot of batteries, including most supermarkets, have a collection box near the entrance or tills. You do not need to buy anything.
- Kerbside collection. Some councils collect household batteries with recycling. Put them in a clear sealed bag on top of your bin lid on collection day.
- The tip. Every household waste recycling centre accepts batteries, including car batteries.
Vapes
Vapes contain a lithium battery and must be recycled as electrical waste. The sale of single-use vapes was banned across the UK from 1 June 2025, but many are still being thrown away. Shops that sell vapes have to accept used ones back, and tips have collection points.
Hidden batteries
Many items contain batteries you cannot see: toothbrushes, toys, greetings cards, trainers that light up, headphones and phones. Treat them as electrical waste.
Make them safe
- Tape over the ends of lithium batteries and button cells.
- Store used batteries in a cool dry container, not loose in a drawer with keys or coins.
- Never throw a swollen or damaged battery away. Take it to the tip and tell the staff.
Which bin? Quick answers
Find your council
Common questions
Can I put batteries in my recycling bin?
No, never inside any wheelie bin. Some councils collect household batteries on recycling day in a clear bag placed on top of the bin lid. Otherwise use a shop collection point or the tip.
Where can I take an old vape?
Any shop that sells vapes must take them back. Tips also have collection points. Never put a vape in a bin.