Cordless Appliances Alternative ways to recycle Recycle With E-Waste Never Throw in the Garbage Cordless appliances contain metals and chemicals that contaminate the environment if not properly processed. Do not throw them in the garbage. Battery Not Removable? It’s Hazardous Waste Cordless appliances contain rechargeable batteries, which contain metals and corrosive chemicals that contaminate the environment when not properly processed. Dispose of them as hazardous waste. Removable Battery? Take It Out If you can remove the battery from your cordless appliance, take it out and dispose of it separately. Many cordless appliances contain lithium-ion batteries. Learn what to do with lithium-ion batteries or other battery types. Rechargeable Devices Cause Fires Rechargeable devices contain batteries that can start fires when put in the garbage or curbside recycling bin. Always dispose of rechargeable batteries and devices properly to keep sanitation workers safe. Battery Removed? It’s Scrap Metal Once the rechargeable battery has been removed from a cordless appliance, remove any plastic components and toss them in the trash. Dispose of metal components as scrap metal. Alternative Ways to Recycle Best Buy’s Electronics and Appliances Recycling Program Best Buy accepts stick vacuums, upright/canister vacuums, robot vacuums, fans and other home electronics for free recycling. They also offer a buyback program for more desired electronics. They accept up to three items per day from each household. Find a location here. Ways to Reduce Invest in Durable Appliances If possible, research and invest in appliances that are built to last. A quality appliance will last longer, require less maintenance and fewer repairs, and work more efficiently. Skip the Fads Before purchasing an electronic gadget, consider its actual usefulness. Cordless appliances often use valuable, non-renewable materials. Ways to Reuse Still Working? Sell or Donate It If your cordless appliance is still in working condition, try selling it or giving it away through Nextdoor, Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist or OfferUp. Did You Know? Lithium-Ion Battery Fires on the Rise Since lithium-ion batteries are sensitive to pressure and contact, they can cause truck or facility fires when accidentally thrown in the garbage or curbside recycling. One Brooklyn recycling facility recorded over 100 fires caused by lithium-ion batteries in 2021. Another lithium-ion battery fire burned down a public recycling center in San Carlos, California, causing $6.8 million in damages. What Devices Use Lithium-Ion Batteries? Lithium-ion batteries are found in common consumer electronics such as wireless headphones, cell phones, laptops, tablets, cameras, calculators, handheld gaming devices, hearing aids, hoverboards, e-cigarettes, and cordless appliances and power tools. Lithium-ion batteries are also used in electric vehicles and solar energy storage.