Some batteries contain no harmful materials and other batteries do; please take the time to know the difference. 

People use more and more household batteries.  The average person owns about two button batteries, ten normal (A, AA, AAA, C D 9V, etc.) batteries and throws out about eight household batteries per year.  About three billion batteries are sold annually in the U.S.

Types of Batteries and Disposal Methods:

• Non-rechargeable alkaline and carbon zinc (heavy duty) batteries may be placed in the garbage.  They no longer contain hazardous material and do not need to be recycled.
• Lithium, button, and rechargeable nickel cadmium (Ni-Cd) batteries are toxic and should not be placed in the garbage. They should be recycled. 
• Vehicle batteries for cars, boats, snowmobiles, etc. are illegal to throw in the garbage and must be recycled.  By MN State Law, businesses that sell lead-acid batteries are required to accept up to five used batteries per person at no charge. 

To recycle batteries, bring them to the Dakota County Recycling Zone located in Eagan. 

Invest in Rechargeable Batteries

Over its useful life, each rechargeable battery may substitute for hundreds of single-use batteries.  All rechargeable batteries are recyclable.  While they may cost more up front, they'll save money in the long run because they last longer than disposables. 

Here are some tips to get the most out of your rechargeable batteries:

• Follow the charging guidelines provided by the manufacturer
• Let a discharged battery cool (or warm) to room temperature before recharging
• Recharge batteries only when they are near to fully discharged