Lithium-ion batteries are rechargeable batteries that pack a lot of power into a compact size. They offer higher energy density, greater efficiency and a longer lifespan than most other rechargeable battery types, making them the preferred choice for today's technology.
You'll find lithium-ion batteries in many of the devices you use every day.
Why are lithium-ion batteries dangerous?
Lithium-ion batteries can be dangerous if they are damaged, improperly handled or tossed in the trash or curbside recycling. When crushed, punctured or exposed to heat, they can ignite and cause serious fires, putting you, recycling facilities like EMR and the community at risk. That's why it's important to dispose of them properly.
Items with lithium-ion batteries
Lithium-ion batteries are widely used in modern technology and are an essential source of power for many everyday devices we use today. They provide energy for a broad range of applications, from smartphones to electric vehicles, making them a key component of today's portable and transportation technologies.
Lithium-ion battery devices
- E-scooters & E-bikes
- Vapes
- Hoverboards
- Laptops and tablets (iPads, Amazon Fire, Kindle, Samsung Galaxy Tab)
- Powertools (Cordless drills, sawzalls, screwdrivers, power cutters, circular saws)
- Cellphones
- Gaming controllers, devices and wireless headsets (Xbox, Playstation, Nintendo, PC, ROG, Steam Deck)
- Powerbanks (phone chargers)
- Drones
- Hybrid and electric vehicles (SUVs, cars, trucks, motorcycles)
- Meta glasses (Ray-Ban, Oakley)
- Self-care/beauty devices (Rechargeable toothbrushes, shavers, trimmers, light therapy masks)
- Home devices (Rechargeable vacuums, Roombas, Blenders, ice makers)
- Home maintenance (Cordless string trimmers, blowers, mowers)
- Portable power generators
How to safely dispose of your batteries
To dispose or recycle any of these products:
Do
- Take the battery out if it slides or clicks out easily
- Tape the metal ends or bag each battery - to stop sparks
- Keep cool, dry and away from anything that can burn
- Recycle them quickly. Don't let them pile up at home
Don't
- Put batteries in your scrap metal load
- Crush, puncture, bend or open a cell
- Toss them in the trash or curbside recycling
- Leave them in the heat or direct sun
- Use a swollen or leaking battery
Warning signs
- Swollen
- Hot
- Sweet smell
- Leaking
- Hissing
If your battery is swollen or damaged
Don't use a drop-off box, call 1-877-723-1297 or visit batterynetwork.org/safety.