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Where to dispose of portable chargers

The EPA says a portable charger with a lithium-ion battery, also called a power bank, does not belong in the trash or municipal recycling. Take it to a qualified battery or electronics recycler or household hazardous-waste collection. If it is damaged or swollen, follow manufacturer-specific handling instructions; do not puncture it or mail or box it casually. A passive charging cable is a different item.

Answer sources: EPA lithium-ion battery disposal

How to prepare the portable charger

For a normal, undamaged unit, protect the terminals with nonconductive tape or place it in an individual bag only as the receiving program instructs. Do not pry open the device or try to remove a battery that is not user-serviceable.

For a damaged or swollen unit, contact the manufacturer or the receiving program before transport and follow its handling instructions. Keep it out of trash and municipal recycling, and do not puncture it.

Sources: EPA lithium-ion battery disposal.

What to do with other electronics

If resolving the battery issue leaves you with separate nonhazardous electronics, check whether a qualified electronics or battery program accepts them. Do not assume a portable charger belongs in a general electronics box until its battery has been handled according to the receiving program’s instructions.

For loose leads without batteries, see where to donate or recycle cables and cords.

Sources: EPA lithium-ion battery disposal.

Where Dropcurb fits

Use a qualified battery or electronics receiving program for the power bank itself. If you are also clearing separate, accepted nonhazardous electronics, Dropcurb can collect those from an accessible outdoor location. Confirm the contents before choosing an electronics box.

Sources: Dropcurb current pricing and standard pickup scope.

Current Dropcurb prices

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ItemPickup of oneEach additional
Box of electronics$79$19

For accepted items outside and accessible. Your pickup uses the highest first-item price, plus the additional-item price for each remaining item. Loading, transportation and disposal are included. Prices are before applicable sales tax; see your total before payment.

See item definitions and the pricing calculation

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