Battery Criteria

(Single-Use Alkaline ONLY)

Did you know?

Your household AA, AAA, C, and D batteries are actually not batteries, but cells. A cell is a single energy-producing unit, while a battery is multiple cells strung together. A 9V battery is a true battery because it contains 6, 7, or 8 individual cells.

Common Single-Use Alkaline Batteries

A guide to the most common single-use alkaline battery sizes accepted for recycling by ResQ.

A23: A small, button-like cell, often used in remote controls and key fobs.
N: A small, cylindrical battery, commonly used in toys and small electronic devices.
AAAA: Larger than AAA but smaller than AA, used in some specialty devices.
AAA: The smallest standard cylindrical battery, often found in remote controls, toys, and small devices.
AA: A popular size, widely used in flashlights, toys, and various household devices.
C: A larger cylindrical battery, commonly used in flashlights and some toys.
D: The largest standard cylindrical battery, often used in flashlights, radios, and other devices.
9V: A rectangular battery, typically used in smoke detectors, remote controls, and portable electronics.
Button Cells: Small, round cells used in watches, calculators, and other small electronics.

NOTE: Please use electrical tape to cover the ends on batteries when possible. Also, Please ensure batteries are fully discharged before putting in the ResQ Bin. Thank You!

Batteries We Don’t Take at ResQ Bins

We only recycle single-use undamaged alkaline batteries (like AA or AAA). Here’s a list of batteries we don’t accept, with examples to help you spot them.

Carbon-Zinc Batteries: Cheap batteries used in things like clocks or smoke alarms.
Examples: Often called "Heavy Duty" batteries in clocks or remotes.
Lithium Batteries: Long-lasting batteries for things like cameras or power tools.
Examples: CR2032 (small round ones in watches) or 18650 (in laptops).
NiMH Batteries: Rechargeable batteries for stuff you use a lot.
Examples: Rechargeable AA or AAA (like Eneloop for toys or cameras).
NiCd Batteries: Older rechargeable batteries with toxic stuff inside.
Examples: Rechargeable AA or 9V (like in old cordless phones).
Silver-Oxide Batteries: Small batteries for fancy things like watches.
Examples: SR44 or SR626SW (in watches or tiny gadgets).
Rechargeable Batteries Disclaimer
ResQ doesn’t take rechargeable batteries (even AA or AAA sizes). They’re not safe for our bins, and ResQ Sustainability Group LLC isn’t liable for any issues. Recycle them via locations that accept them here.
Alkaline vs. Rechargeable Batteries
Single-Use Alkaline: Use once, like AA or AAA for remotes. Safe for ResQ bins if undamaged.
Rechargeable: Reusable, like NiMH AA or AAA. Not safe for our bins; they need special recycling.

Non-Alkaline Battery Recycling Guidance

At ResQ, we specialize in recycling alkaline batteries (AA, AAA, C, D, 9V, etc.) through our dedicated ResQ Bin locations. For all other battery types, such as lithium-ion, nickel-cadmium, nickel-metal-hydride, or lead-acid batteries, we recommend using trusted external resources to locate appropriate recycling drop-off points near you.

To find recycling locations for non-alkaline batteries, please visit the following independent organizations:

Call2Recycle Locator - A trusted resource for finding drop-off points for rechargeable and single-use batteries.
U.S. EPA Battery Recycling Guide - Provides information on safe battery disposal and recycling options.
Earth911 Recycling Search - A comprehensive tool to find local recycling centers for various battery types.

Important Note: ResQ does not accept non-alkaline batteries (e.g., lithium-ion, nickel-cadmium, nickel-metal-hydride, or lead-acid). We provide these external links for your convenience and do not endorse, control, or assume responsibility for the services, locations, or practices of these third-party organizations. Please contact the recycling facility directly to confirm their acceptance policies, hours, and any specific requirements (e.g., taping battery terminals or weight limits).

Disclaimer: ResQ is not liable for any issues, damages, or consequences arising from the use of third-party recycling services or drop-off locations. Always handle and transport batteries safely, following local regulations and guidelines to prevent risks such as fires or leaks.

For alkaline battery recycling, use our interactive map to find the nearest ResQ Bin location. Thank you for recycling responsibly!