How to dispose of a power bank is simple but important: never put it in the trash or curbside recycling. Power banks are packs of lithium-ion or lithium-polymer cells, and when crushed in a garbage truck or sorting facility, they can short circuit and start fires. Instead, tape over the USB ports, put the power bank in its own plastic bag, and take it to a battery drop-off or e-waste collection site. Many electronics and hardware stores have free battery recycling bins.
Why power banks are a fire risk
Lithium-ion cells store a lot of energy. Damage from crushing or puncturing can cause thermal runaway, a self-heating reaction that leads to fire. Waste and recycling facilities report frequent fires from batteries hidden in trash and recycling. See keeping lithium packs uncrushed in the load.
Preparing it for drop-off
- Discharge partially if convenient, but do not drain it to zero.
- Tape the ports with electrical or clear tape.
- Bag it individually in a clear plastic bag.
- Keep it cool and dry until drop-off.
Where to take it
| Option | Notes |
|---|---|
| Retail battery bins | Many electronics and hardware stores accept rechargeable batteries |
| County household hazardous waste | Usually accepts lithium batteries |
| E-waste events and centers | Often take power banks with other electronics |
| Mail-back programs | Some manufacturers and services offer them |
Some retail bins accept only batteries under a certain weight, so check before bringing large packs. See where to recycle batteries.
Swollen or damaged power banks
A puffy, cracked, hot, or leaking power bank is more dangerous.
- Stop using and charging it.
- Place it in a non-flammable container, like a metal can with sand, away from flammables.
- Do not puncture or press on it.
- Call your hazardous waste site; many have special handling and do not want damaged packs in retail bins.
Power banks built into devices
Battery cases, solar chargers, and jump starters also contain lithium batteries and should go to battery or e-waste recycling. Car jump starters may be lithium or lead-acid; check the label.
Air travel note
Airlines limit power banks to carry-on bags, which reflects their fire risk. Treat them with the same care at disposal time.
Other small lithium batteries
Button cells, vape batteries, and e-bike packs need similar care. See turning in button cell batteries and how to dispose of an e-bike battery.
How to dispose of a power bank FAQ
Can I throw a power bank in the trash?
No. Lithium batteries can cause fires in trucks and facilities.
Where can I recycle a power bank?
At retail battery bins, e-waste centers, or household hazardous waste.
What do I do with a swollen power bank?
Stop using it, isolate it in a non-flammable container, and call your hazardous waste site.
Should I tape power bank ports before recycling?
Yes, to prevent short circuits.
Are power banks e-waste?
Yes, and they are also battery waste; either drop-off usually works.
The bottom line
How to dispose of a power bank: never trash or curbside-recycle it, tape the ports, bag it, and take it to a battery drop-off, e-waste site, or household hazardous waste. Isolate swollen or damaged packs and call ahead. Use the map to find a battery recycling site near you.
Guides and tools
Battery recycling guide · Electronics recycling guide · Dump cost calculator · All material guides