Battery & Light Bulb Recycling: What We Accept and How to Prepare Items
- by Joe Weber - updated on 6/30/2025
Recycling batteries and light bulbs isn't just the right thing to do—it helps protect people, animals, and the environment from harmful materials.
Batteries Plus makes it easy to responsibly dispose of used batteries, light bulbs, and even certain small electronics. Here's everything you need to know about what we accept, how to prepare your items for drop-off, and why proper recycling is so important.
Key Takeaways:
- Recycling batteries and light bulbs helps protect the environment by preventing toxic materials from entering landfills and water systems.
- Batteries Plus accepts a wide range of items, including lead-acid, lithium, NiMH, and NiCd batteries, as well as CFLs, fluorescent tubes, LEDs, and small electronics.
- Proper prep matters — taping battery terminals and safely packaging bulbs reduces fire and contamination risks.
- Recycling programs may vary by store, so it's always best to contact your local Batteries Plus for details.
- Business recycling services are available with bulk options and custom solutions through a free Business Account.
Why Should I Recycle Batteries?
Batteries may power your everyday essentials, but when they're thrown away, they can become a serious environmental hazard. Recycling batteries helps reduce pollution, protect public health, and conserve valuable materials.
- Prevent Pollution – Batteries contain toxic metals like lead, cadmium, and lithium that can leak into soil and groundwater if improperly disposed of.
- Protect People & Wildlife – These harmful substances pose serious health risks to humans, animals, and entire ecosystems.
- Reduce Landfill Waste – Tossed batteries contribute to growing landfill problems and may spark fires in waste facilities.
- Recover Valuable Materials – Recycling helps reclaim metals and materials that can be reused in new products.
Why Should I Recycle Light Bulbs?
Used light bulbs, especially CFLs and fluorescent tubes, can contain hazardous materials that don't belong in the trash. Recycling light bulbs ensures these substances are safely handled and kept out of the environment.
- Avoid Mercury Contamination – CFLs and certain other bulbs contain small amounts of mercury, which can be harmful even in tiny doses.
- Protect Air & Water – Improper disposal can release toxic substances into the environment, impacting public health.
- Comply with Regulations – Many states have laws requiring the proper recycling of fluorescent and mercury-containing bulbs.
- Support Sustainability – Recycling helps conserve natural resources and reduces the need for new raw materials.
What Does Batteries Plus Recycle?
Recycling options may vary by location. Contact your local Batteries Plus store to confirm which items they accept.
Battery Types We Accept:
- Lead-acid batteries: Automotive, marine, RV, golf cart, sump pump, floor scrubber
- Nickel-cadmium (NiCd): Power tools, cordless phones, calculators
- Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH): Cameras, barcode scanners, flashlights
- Lithium-ion (Li-ion) and lithium-polymer: Laptops, phones, tablets, power tools
- Alkaline & household batteries: AA, AAA, C, D, 9V
- Specialty batteries: Hearing aid, watch, key fob, medical device
Light Bulbs We Accept:
- LED
- Incandescent
- Halogen
- Fluorescent tubes (straight, U-bend, circular)
- CFLs (compact fluorescent)
- Germicidal/UV
- HID (mercury vapor, metal halide, high-pressure sodium)
- Shatter-shield and plastic-coated bulbs
Small Electronics & More:
- Phones
- Tablets
- Laptops
- Chargers and cables
- Select power tools and accessories
How to Prepare Items for Recycling
- Tape battery terminals – Use clear tape to cover exposed terminals, especially on lithium batteries, to prevent fire risk.
- Separate battery types – Keep lithium, NiCd, and lead-acid batteries separate when transporting them.
- Handle broken bulbs safely – If a CFL breaks, follow EPA cleanup guidelines before bringing the bulb in for recycling.
- Can't remove the battery? – Bring the whole device to your local store. We'll help you safely remove it.
Help Your Business Recycle
Batteries Plus also offers bulk recycling solutions for our business customers. Whether you manage a school, facility, or fleet, we'll help you safely recycle large quantities of batteries and bulbs. Ask your local store about our business account options and pickup services.
Don't have a Batteries Plus Business Account? Sign in or sign up for your free account below to start taking advantage of all the benefits:
- Discounted pricing on thousands of battery, lighting & power products
- Flexible billing & net terms for qualified businesses
- Dedicated account support & local service
- Nationwide shipping & in-store pickup options
- Custom recycling solutions for batteries & bulbs
- Convenient online ordering & purchase history tracking
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What types of batteries can I recycle at Batteries Plus?
A: We accept a wide variety of battery types, including lead-acid, lithium-ion, NiMH, NiCd, and household alkaline batteries. Availability may vary by location.
Q: Can I recycle broken light bulbs?
A: Yes, you can bring in broken bulbs, but be sure to follow EPA cleanup guidelines first. Call your local store ahead of time for instructions on packaging and safe transport.
Q: Is there a fee to recycle items?
A: Some stores may charge a small fee for recycling, depending on the item and local regulations. Contact your local Batteries Plus for details.
Q: Can I recycle electronics like phones or tablets?
A: Many Batteries Plus locations accept small electronics such as phones, tablets, and power tools. Check with your local store to confirm.
Q: What should I do if I can't remove the battery from a device?
A: Bring the entire device to your local store. Our trained associates can safely remove and recycle the battery for you.
Q: Do you offer business recycling services?
A: Yes! Businesses can set up customized recycling solutions through our business account program. Ask about bulk recycling and pickup options.
Ready to Recycle?
Visit your local Batteries Plus to find a drop-off location near you and learn more about accepted items. We're committed to helping you recycle safely—and protecting the environment one battery and bulb at a time.