Do you know what to do with your spent batteries? Depending on the type, there are different ways to safely dispose of them. Here is a quick rundown of the most common types of household batteries: 

• Alkaline batteries power many household devices like remotes, toys, wall clocks and flashlights. These are the typical AA, AAA, 9V, C and D batteries. 
• Lithium-ion batteries are rechargeable and found in devices like cell phones, laptops, cordless vacuums, cameras and smartwatches. There are also some lithium-ion batteries in the same shape as alkaline batteries but should be clearly labeled as rechargeable. Lithium-ion batteries are also used to power large items such as electric lawn mowers and electric vehicles (EV). 
• Coin and button cell batteries are used in watches, car fobs, and other small devices.  
• Lead-acid batteries are heavy duty and can be used to start engines in a car, motorcycle, or lawnmower. 

For safety, all new and used batteries should be stored up and away from where kids and pets can reach. Coin and button cell batteries are easily swallowed and can cause severe medical problems if eaten. Each of the listed battery types has a different purpose and chemistry and should be disposed of in a specific manner. 

Alkaline batteries have two options for disposal: recycling or trash. Staples will accept alkaline batteries for recycling for free, and the Battery Network has a mail-in program for a fee. If disposing of alkaline batteries in the trash, place packing or electrical tape over the ends to prevent sparks from starting a garbage fire. 

Lithium-ion batteries must be recycled; they cannot be put in the trash since they can cause fires or explosions in garbage trucks or processing facilities. There are several locations in and near Putnam County where lithium-ion batteries can be recycled for free: Home Depot, Lowes, and Staples. Best Buy and other cell phone retailers will accept cell phones and accessories for recycling as well. EV batteries are too big for any of these recycling programs and must be recycled by the vehicle manufacturer.  

Coin and button cell batteries also have two options for disposal: recycling or trash. Again, there are several locations in and near Putnam County where coin and button cell batteries can be recycled at no cost: Home Depot, Lowes, and Staples. If disposing of coin and button cell batteries in the trash, tape them over with packing or electrical tape to prevent any sparks from starting a garbage fire. 

Lead-acid batteries should be brought back to where they (or their replacement) were purchased. When a lead-acid battery is sold, a deposit is charged, which is refunded when the old battery is returned.   

Improving recycling efforts is part of what the health department does. Vapes and e-cigarettes usually have lithium-ion batteries, with some built to recharge and others to last just until the e-liquid is depleted. PCDOH is currently working with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and other state and local partners to identify the safest option for disposal of these devices. Once a sustainable solution is available, this article will be updated along with the Putnam Recycles website. (Of course, not using a vape is a better option than having to dispose of one; those looking to quit can find help at putnamcountyny.gov/health/#chaep.) 

If Putnam residents have batteries but are not sure of what type or how to dispose of them, they are encouraged to contact the health department’s recycling and solid waste program at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or calling 845-808-1390. 

Additional Resources: 

• The Battery Network, formerly Call2Recycle, locator: batterynetwork.org/locator  
• Best Buy: https://www.bestbuy.com/site/services/recycling/pcmcat149900050025.c?id=pcmcat149900050025  
• Home Depot: https://www.homedepot.com/c/ab/how-to-dispose-of-batteries/9ba683603be9fa5395fab90124a115f1  
• Lowes: https://www.lowes.com/n/how-to/how-to-dispose-of-batteries  
• Staples: https://www.staples.com/stores/recycling#rec