Options & restrictions

Button Batteries

Description:

Button batteries include small button or coin-sized batteries used in watches, digital thermometers, hearing aids, etc.

Options & Restrictions:

Household batteries, including alkaline, button, rechargeable and motor vehicle batteries, are accepted for recycling at household hazardous waste collection facilities from residents and in limited quantities from eligible businesses. Many general purpose batteries, also known as dry-cell batteries, can contain levels of hazardous materials that make them dangerous waste when disposed. Button, rechargeable, or lead-acid batteries are not accepted in the garbage or at King County transfer stations.

Though recycling is preferred, alkaline batteries can be disposed of at King County transfer stations.

Residents can recycle rechargeable batteries (look for the symbol on the battery) at hardware stores and other retail locations that participate in the Call2Recycle program (formerly RBRC).

Businesses must meet universal waste requirements for the proper handling of universal waste batteries or handle them as dangerous waste.