Can I throw alkaline batteries in the trash in Maryland?

Technically yes—Maryland allows single-use alkaline batteries (AA, AAA, C, D) in regular trash. However, recycling is better for the environment. Many retailers offer free drop-off.

Where can I recycle lithium batteries in Howard County?

Lithium batteries can be recycled for free at Home Depot, Lowe's, Best Buy, Staples, and Alpha Ridge Landfill. Always tape the terminals before drop-off.

How do I dispose of a car battery in Howard County?

Car batteries (lead-acid) are accepted free at AutoZone, O'Reilly Auto Parts, Advance Auto Parts, and Alpha Ridge Landfill. Many auto parts stores offer a core charge refund.

Are button batteries hazardous?

Yes, button/coin cell batteries contain toxic metals and are a choking hazard for children. Never throw them in regular trash. Tape them and take to a battery recycling drop-off.

Why do I need to tape battery terminals?

Taping terminals prevents short circuits that can cause fires. This is especially important for 9V batteries and lithium batteries, which can spark if terminals touch metal.

How to Dispose of Batteries in Howard County

The short answer: Never throw lithium or rechargeable batteries in the trash—they're a fire hazard. Alkaline batteries (AA, AAA) can technically go in trash, but recycling is better. Drop-off is free at Home Depot, Lowe's, and Best Buy.

🔋 Quick Reference

Alkaline (AA, AAA, C, D): Trash OK, but recycling preferred
Lithium & Rechargeable: NEVER trash — fire risk! Recycle only
Car batteries: Free at auto parts stores
Button cells: Tape & recycle — toxic metals

Various types of batteries including car battery, laptop lithium battery, AA, AAA, 9V, and button cells ready for recycling

Battery Types & Disposal Rules

Alkaline

AA, AAA, C, D, 9V

Trash OK (recycle preferred)

Lithium

Laptops, phones, power tools

⚠️ Tape terminals, recycle only

Rechargeable

NiCd, NiMH, Li-ion

⚠️ Recycle only

Button Cell

Watches, hearing aids, remotes

🚫 Toxic — never trash

Car / Lead-Acid

Vehicles, lawn equipment, UPS

🚫 Never trash — take to auto store

Lithium Batteries Cause Fires

Lithium batteries are the #1 cause of recycling facility fires. When crushed or punctured, they spark and ignite. Never put them in regular trash or recycling bins. Always tape terminals and take to a designated drop-off.

Where to Recycle Batteries in Howard County

Home Depot

Free battery recycling bins near the entrance. Multiple Howard County locations.

Rechargeable Lithium Cell Phone

Lowe's

Rechargeable battery collection at customer service. Columbia & Ellicott City.

Rechargeable Lithium Power Tool

Best Buy

Electronics and battery recycling at the front of the store. Columbia location.

Rechargeable Lithium Cell Phone Laptop

Staples

Tech recycling program accepts batteries. Columbia location.

Rechargeable Lithium Ink Cartridges

AutoZone / O'Reilly / Advance Auto

Free car battery recycling. May give you a core credit toward a new battery!

Car Batteries Lead-Acid Motorcycle

Alpha Ridge Landfill

2350 Marriottsville Rd. Free for Howard County residents. Mon-Sat 8am-4pm.

All Battery Types Car Batteries Household

How to Prepare Batteries for Recycling

Tape the Terminals!

Before dropping off lithium or 9V batteries, place clear tape over the terminals (the + and - ends). This prevents short circuits that can cause fires during transport and storage.

Step-by-Step:

Sort batteries by type — Keep lithium/rechargeable separate from alkaline
Tape terminals — Use clear packing tape on lithium, 9V, and button cells
Store safely — Place in a plastic container (not metal) until drop-off
Drop off — Take to any location listed above

Pro Tip

Keep a small container in your junk drawer for dead batteries. When it's full, make one trip to Home Depot or Lowe's. Easy!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I put batteries in my curbside recycling bin?

No. Batteries do not go in curbside recycling. They can cause fires in recycling trucks and facilities. Take them to a designated drop-off location.

What about batteries inside old electronics?

If the battery is built-in (like a laptop or tablet), recycle the whole device at Best Buy or Alpha Ridge. They'll handle the battery safely.

Are alkaline batteries really okay in trash?

In Maryland, yes—single-use alkaline batteries are considered non-hazardous. But recycling is still the environmentally responsible choice, and it's free at most hardware stores.

How do I dispose of a swollen lithium battery?

Swollen batteries are a fire hazard. Place in a fireproof container (like a metal tin), tape terminals, and take to Best Buy or Alpha Ridge immediately. Do not puncture or crush.

My old laptop battery won't hold a charge—can I recycle it?

Absolutely. Dead batteries are still recyclable. Best Buy and Staples accept laptop batteries for free.

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