There is often a bit of confusion when it comes to disposing of batteries. Some people think it is fine to chuck all batteries in the normal waste whereas other people think that they need to be disposed of as hazardous waste properly at designated places. There are different rules for different types of batteries and that is because of the material that is inside them. Most alkaline batteries do not contain mercury and are composed primarily of common metals such as steel, zinc, and manganese. This means they do not pose a health or environmental risk during normal use or disposal, so, therefore, can be chucked in with your normal household waste.

Car batteries cannot be disposed of in normal waste (this is by law) and will either need to be taken to a garage or a waste site that accepts them. If you are having a battery replaced then ask the garage if they will dispose of your old one. They may charge you a small fee to do this.

You may want to send your batteries to be recycled instead. Often your local council will collect batteries that are left out with the normal recycling collection, but always call and check first.