How to Dispose of Laptop Battery?

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Laptop batteries are durable and long-lasting. They are made of lithium-ion that can be recharged and used over and over.

However, there comes a time when laptop batteries drain entirely and have to be disposed of.

Wondering what the right way to dispose of a laptop battery is? Read further as we share a detailed guide with you on ‘How to dispose of laptop battery.

Should You Throw Away Your Dead Laptop Batteries?

No, throwing away your dead laptop batteries is not a practical thing to do.

One may think that laptop batteries are not posing any health or environmental hazard, but that’s not entirely true.

When dead or damaged laptop batteries are disposed of in landfills or the trash, there are chances that the lithium-ion chemicals inside can seep out and react with the environment.

These batteries can also explode and be dangerous for landfill workers.

Why is it Important to Safely Dispose of Laptop Batteries?

Safe disposal of old laptop batteries is highly essential to ensure no one gets harmed by the chemicals inside these batteries.

The lithium in laptop batteries can be reactive and pose a severe fire hazard when there is improper disposal.

Throwing away laptop batteries in the trash is also not legal in some states and countries as they are considered a serious environmental hazard.

Consequently, improper disposal of laptop batteries in such states means you have to pay heavy fines and ruin your image as a responsible citizen.

To save your rapport and money both, it is best to safely dispose of laptop batteries, as stated by law.

When it comes to disposing of laptop batteries, it is best to look for alternative solutions where laptop battery disposal is less damaging for the environment.

Can You Recycle Laptop Batteries?

Yes, it is possible to recycle laptop batteries. In the present age and time, it has become relatively easy and practical to make sustainable choices when it comes to disposing of laptop batteries.

Laptop batteries are made of reactive lithium that needs to be safely disposed of. Just make sure that you keep your laptop batteries away from flammable materials to prevent chances of accidents.

Another good news is that laptop batteries are not considered overly toxic. Hence, it is easier to get them recycled.

With various options at your disposal, there is no excuse for you not to consider recycling laptop batteries.

How to Dispose of Your Laptop Battery (Step-by-Step)

Now that you have decided to be a responsible citizen and are ready to dispose of your laptop battery for recycling, here is how you have to prepare for it.

Follow this step-by-step guide to dispose of your laptop batteries safely:

Step 1 – Confirm That Your Battery is Dead

Before you decide to dispose of your laptop battery, the first step is to confirm that it is no longer working.

Sometimes, it is just a malfunction issue that can be fixed, and you do not need to completely replace your battery unless you are sure it is gone for good.

Therefore, to save your valuable time and money, make sure you confirm from an expert that your laptop battery has completely run its course before you consider disposing of it.

Step 2 – Detach the  Battery from Laptop

Carefully remove the battery from your laptop so you can separately send it to a recycling facility.

If you have a dead laptop, in this case as well, you have to separate the battery from the laptop. Each item has to be sent separately for disposal.

To detach the battery from the laptop, you have to open the latches/buttons found on the bottom of your laptop.

Most laptop batteries come off easily using the latch or button. However, some are screwed inside, so removing a screwed-in laptop battery may take some extra muscles.

Step 3 – Seal the Ends of the Laptop Battery

As discussed earlier, dead or damaged batteries can easily leak if not handled with care.

Therefore, to avoid any lithium reaction or other accidents, it is best that you seal both ends of the laptop battery with a sturdy masking tape to block all leaks.

You can also place your laptop battery in a sealed plastic bag to keep it separate and protected from getting in contact with other reactants.

Step 4 – Store Batteries Away from Reactants

As discussed in the step above, you need to seal and pack your laptop batteries inside a plastic bag to keep them safe.

This way, there are fewer chances of lithium leakage that can react with the air or other combustible items like paper or cardboard.

This applies to multiple batteries. No matter how many batteries or rechargeable devices you need to dispose of for recycling, make sure they are all kept away from each other.

It is best to store dead batteries at a dark, cool, and isolated spot away from other items.

Congratulations, your battery is now ready for disposal.

Step 5 – The Final Disposal

Now that you have carefully sealed and packed your laptop batteries in a container or airtight plastic bag, it is all set for the final disposal.

Make sure that you do not sit too long on this one. The more you delay disposal, the more dangerous it can be.

It is best to schedule a pick or drop-off time with whichever recycling option you choose to go forward with.

Where Can You Dispose Of Your Laptop Battery for Recycling?

The right way to dispose of a laptop battery is to recycle it.

As stated earlier, laptop batteries are classified as hazardous waste in some countries, making it essential to recycle them.

There are several options when it comes to recycling laptop batteries. Let’s see what they are:

Option # 1: Dispose of Your Laptop Batteries at Local Recycling Stations

There are various Local Recycling services offered by the government or your district that collect items like laptop batteries for disposal.

You can drop off your old laptop batteries at local recycling stations located at malls, community centers, public libraries, and other waste disposal centers.

You can search the web for the local recycling services and check if they accept laptop batteries.

You can schedule a drop-off time with them.

Option # 2: Dispose of Your Laptop Batteries through Retailers

In several US states, laptops are considered hazardous waste, making it mandatory to dispose of them for recycling.

You can give your batteries back to the retailer you purchased them from, and they will send them for further recycling.

Some states have laws according to which a retailer has to accept all old laptop batteries, including those not originally purchased from them.

In addition to this, several popular local chains like Best Buy or The Home Depot accept old laptop batteries at their recycling stations.

Option # 3: Dispose of Your Laptop Batteries via Manufacturer Mail Recycling Service

If you cannot find any retailers near your area of residence, you can always contact your laptop’s manufacturer and request a mail recycling service.

Various mainstream laptop manufacturers like IBM and Apple provide these services in major US states.

Make sure that you give them a call and schedule a pick-up time with them.

Also, get all other details regarding packaging and handling over-used batteries safely in the mail.

Some laptop manufacturers like HP, Lenovo, Acer, etc., partner with local stores and recycling companies that provide such services.

Option # 4: Dispose of Your Laptop Batteries via Online Recycling Companies

Another convenient way of disposing of old laptop batteries is by contacting online recycling companies.

Some online recycling companies mainly focus on recycling electronic goods only, so contacting them is an excellent choice.

Bear in mind that since these are online services, you may have to pay a specific fee for item collection. However, there are a few non-profit recycling companies available too.

If you cannot find an alternate solution and want to skip the hassle of looking for a recycling station or going to the manufacturer, this option is ideal.

Make sure that you call them before scheduling a pick-up visit so you can pack your laptop batteries according to their requirements.

Another advantage of choosing an online recycling company is that you can dispose of other recyclable items all in one place.

Final Thoughts – What Should You Do?

We hope that you liked our guide on ‘How to dispose of laptop battery.’.

The next time you are left with a dead laptop battery, make sure that you consider all the valuable tips shared in this guide to carry out a safe disposal procedure.

As responsible citizens, we have to abide by the law and look for safe solutions, especially when it comes to disposing of hazardous waste like lithium batteries.

With the list of recycling options shared in this guide, we hope you will make the right choice. Good luck!

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