How to Recycle Flashlight Batteries

Batteries should never be simply thrown away. When batteries are thrown in the trash, they end up in a landfill. The chemicals and metals in batteries can be damaging to the environment and can contaminate natural resources, according to Mother Nature Network. The best thing to do with any type of battery is to recycle it. Flashlight batteries, for example, are usually ordinary batteries that you can purchase in any general store. Recycling this type of battery is not difficult as long as you know where to go and what to do.

Have a special place among your recyclable materials to place used batteries. Don't throw them in the trash, and don't mix them with other recyclables, such as glass bottles, plastic jugs or newspapers.

Understand what type of battery you need to recycle. Flashlight batteries are typically in the category of dry-cell batteries. This type of battery is commonly used for ordinary household products. Some types of dry-cell batteries include 9-volt, AA, AAA, D and C.

Do your homework. After you learn about the type of battery you have, you can find out where you can take the batteries to be recycled. Call your local recycling center or municipality to find out where you can recycle your flashlight batteries. All cities are different, but you should be able to find somewhere nearby. Check with large electronic stores as well. These stores sometimes have areas within the store where you can drop off batteries to be recycled.