Vapes contain lithium-ion batteries. They don't belong in the trash. They belong in a battery recycling bin. Here's how to dispose of every type of vaping product responsibly.

Disposables: Don't try to pry the device open to remove the battery yourself. Disposable vapes are sealed for a reason, and puncturing or crushing a lithium-ion cell while forcing it out is one of the more common ways these fires actually start. Take the intact, unopened device to a battery recycling facility — most electronics stores (Best Buy, Currys, etc.) now accept whole disposable vapes specifically because of this risk, and many vape shops do too. If a store's bin says "batteries only" and doesn't clearly accept vapes, ask before dropping one in.

Pod systems: The device itself contains a non-removable battery. When the device dies (usually after 1-2 years), take it to a battery recycling facility. The empty pods are plastic and can go in regular recycling (check your local guidelines).

Mods with removable batteries: Remove the batteries. Tape over the positive and negative terminals with electrical tape. Drop them in a battery recycling bin. The mod itself is electronic waste — take it to an e-waste recycling facility.

E-liquid bottles: Rinse and recycle. Plastic e-liquid bottles are usually PET or LDPE — both are recyclable. Glass bottles are infinitely recyclable. The dropper caps are usually not recyclable.

Never throw a lithium-ion battery in the trash. It can short-circuit, overheat, and start a fire in a garbage truck or landfill. Battery recycling is free and takes 30 seconds. There's no excuse.

This content is intended for adults 21 years of age or older. Nicotine is an addictive chemical. The information provided is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or legal advice. If you are considering using vaping products as an alternative to smoking, consult with a qualified healthcare professional. Product reviews and recommendations are based on publicly available information and independent evaluation; Windbar makes no representation regarding the FDA marketing authorization status of any third-party products mentioned. This content is not a substitute for review by a licensed attorney.

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