How to Dispose of Lead Batteries and Other Lead Waste

Why Lead Disposal Matters

Lead is a highly toxic heavy metal used in various household and industrial items—especially in lead-acid batteries, old pipes, paints, and electronics. Improper disposal of lead-containing products can result in severe soil, water, and air pollution, and even long-term health consequences in both humans and wildlife.

Safely disposing of lead is essential for protecting public health and the environment.

What Items Contain Lead?

Lead can still be found in:

• Car batteries (lead-acid batteries)
• Backup power supplies (UPS systems)
• Solar battery banks
• Old paints (pre-1978)
• Ceramics and glazes
• Ammunition
• Fishing weights and sinkers
• Some electronics and circuit boards
• Lead pipes or plumbing materials
• Old toys or costume jewelry

The Danger of Improper Lead Disposal

When lead-containing items are dumped in landfills or incinerated:

• Toxic lead leaches into the soil and groundwater
• Airborne lead particles pollute nearby communities
• Wildlife may ingest or absorb lead
• It can enter drinking water systems through corroded pipes
• Lead builds up in the body over time, causing brain damage, kidney failure, developmental delays, and heart disease

Even small exposures can be hazardous—especially to children, pregnant women, and pets.

How to Dispose of Lead-Acid Batteries

Lead-acid batteries are recyclable—but only through specialized facilities. Never throw them in the trash or standard recycling.

Steps for Safe Battery Disposal:

1. Wear Gloves
   Avoid skin contact with leaking or damaged batteries.
2. Store Safely
   Keep batteries in a cool, dry place away from pets and children. Use a plastic or cardboard box—never metal.
3. Find a Recycling Drop-Off
   Search for:
   • Auto parts stores (many accept used car batteries)
   • Hazardous waste collection sites
   • Household hazardous waste (HHW) events in your town
   • Municipal recycling programs
   • Landfills with special hazardous waste processing
4. Ask About Incentives
   Some retailers offer a store credit or core charge refund when you bring in an old battery for proper disposal.

How to Dispose of Other Lead Items

1. Lead Paint or Painted Surfaces

If removing old paint:

• Hire a certified lead abatement professional
• Use plastic sheeting and seal all waste
• Do NOT sand or power wash—this spreads lead dust
• Dispose of materials at a hazardous waste facility

2. Lead Fishing Sinkers

• Replace with non-toxic alternatives (steel, bismuth, tin)
• Turn in old sinkers at outdoor gear shops or local fishing programs
• Never leave fishing gear in lakes or rivers

3. Electronics with Lead Solder

• Take to an e-waste recycling center
• Many electronics contain lead solder on circuit boards
• Call2Recycle, Staples, Best Buy, or your local municipality may offer safe drop-offs

4. Lead Ammunition

• Avoid using lead bullets where possible (opt for copper alternatives)
• Contact local shooting ranges or waste agencies for safe disposal

5. Ceramics and Dishware

• Don’t use or donate dishware that contains lead glaze
• Dispose of it at a hazardous materials facility if it cannot be safely recycled

What NOT to Do

• ❌ Don’t throw batteries or electronics in your curbside bin
• ❌ Don’t pour old paint down the drain
• ❌ Don’t bury or burn any lead-containing material
• ❌ Don’t ignore signs of corrosion, leakage, or dust

Environmental Impact of Lead

When improperly discarded, lead:

• Poisons aquatic ecosystems—even low levels can kill fish and amphibians
• Reduces biodiversity by affecting reproduction and immunity in animals
• Contaminates crops when absorbed by soil
• Pollutes groundwater, making it unsafe for drinking or irrigation
• Persists in the environment for decades, unlike organic materials

Health Impact of Lead Exposure

Chronic or acute exposure to lead can cause:

• Brain damage, learning disabilities
• Cardiovascular problems
• Kidney and liver damage
• Miscarriage or low birth weight
• Behavioral and neurological issues
• Fatigue, headaches, abdominal pain

There is no safe level of lead exposure, according to the CDC.

FAQs: Lead Disposal

Is it illegal to throw away car batteries?
Yes, in many states it’s illegal. Most U.S. jurisdictions require battery recycling through certified channels.

Can I recycle lead batteries at home?
No. DIY processing of lead is dangerous. Use only certified recycling centers or retailers.

What should I do with a leaking lead-acid battery?
Wear gloves, seal it in a bag or container, and immediately contact your local hazardous waste facility.

What’s the safest replacement for lead products?
Look for non-toxic, recyclable materials like glass, stainless steel, lithium-ion batteries (with caution), or certified non-lead fishing gear and ammo.

Final Thoughts

Lead may be out of sight, but it’s far from harmless. Whether it’s in batteries, electronics, paint, or pipes—how you dispose of it matters. Safe lead disposal protects your health, your community, and your planet.

Let’s make it a habit: if it contains lead, treat it as hazardous—because it is.