A power bank contains a rechargeable lithium battery even when it no longer charges a phone. Crushing or puncturing it in a bin lorry can start a serious fire, so it must be kept out of rubbish and ordinary recycling.
Quick answer: Treat every unwanted power bank as electrical and battery waste. Use retailer take-back, a council small-electrical collection or an accepting recycling centre—never a household bin.
Why the correct route matters
Lithium cells can retain energy after the device appears dead. Damage, swelling, overheating or a short circuit may trigger thermal runaway, releasing heat and hazardous smoke.
What to know
Keep the terminals and ports away from metal objects during storage and transport.
A swollen, hot, leaking or hissing unit needs urgent advice and should not be handled casually.
Retailers selling electrical goods may provide take-back, though store arrangements and size limits vary.
Cables should be separated for reuse or cable recycling rather than wrapped around a damaged unit.
What to do
- Disconnect the power bank and stop using it if damaged.
- Keep it cool, dry and away from combustible materials.
- Check retailer or local electrical-recycling options.
- Transport it without loose keys or coins touching ports.
- Tell staff immediately if the casing is swollen or damaged.
Practical details that make a difference
Do not attempt to open the case to remove an internal cell. Power banks are not designed for household dismantling, and tools can pierce a pouch cell.
Before disposal, remove any paired-app account or identifying label where relevant, although most simple power banks hold no personal data.
Mistakes to avoid
Never post a lithium device unless the receiving scheme provides compliant instructions. Do not leave a damaged unit unattended in a shop collection box.
A better option where possible
Extend battery life by avoiding prolonged heat, using a compatible charger and storing the unit partly charged when it will not be used for months.
Explore related help in Council Waste Services.
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Official guidance
See Recycle Your Electricals guidance. Collection facilities vary, so confirm the current instruction for your address before acting.
Sources checked: July 2026.
Frequently asked questions
Can a power bank go in a supermarket battery bin?
Not unless the collection specifically accepts complete power banks. Use an electrical-device route.
What should I do with a swollen power bank?
Stop using it, isolate it safely from combustible items and contact the council, retailer or fire service for situation-specific advice.