Household batteries include both single-use and rechargeable batteries used to power toys, cameras, radios, flashlights, hearing aids, cell phones, and many other portable products.
Waste batteries may contain heavy metals that can find their way into the environment if the batteries are not disposed of properly. Used batteries may still have energy in them and can cause high-powered chemical reactions when exposed terminals touch each other.
Proper Disposal
- After batteries are used, tape battery terminals or use individual plastic baggies and place them in a non-conductive (plastic or glass) for storage and transport. Don’t use a metal container (i.e., coffee can).
- Bring all waste household batteries (single-use and rechargeable) to WLSSD’s Household Hazardous Waste Facility.
- Some local retailers (hardware stores, bike shops, battery retailers) and mail-in programs are also available for proper disposal. Types of batteries and costs varies. Contact in advance to confirm.
Local retailers providing battery disposal services (updated January 2024):
Acme Tools
4332 Grand Avenue, Duluth
See website for hours or call 218-628-3523
Rechargeable power tool batteries only.
Hobby Town
4879 Miller Trunk Hwy, Hermantown
See website for hours or call 218-723-7114
Rechargeable batteries and single-use lithium batteries.
Batteries Plus Blubs
4769 Miller Trunk Hwy, Hermantown
See website for hours or call 218-723-1363
Rechargeable and single-use batteries accepted.
Home Depot
1101 Mall Dr, Duluth
See website for hours or call 218-720-0938
Rechargeable power tool batteries only.
Mail-In Programs
Rechargeable and single use batteries. Pay for a box to safely collect and mail batteries to an responsible battery recycler. Cost varies based on company and quantity of batteries.
GoRecycle
Call-to-Recycle