Recycle used vapes through retailer take-back, a dedicated vape collection bin or your council’s approved electrical-waste service. Never put a vape in household rubbish or ordinary recycling: its lithium battery can start a fire if crushed or damaged.
Where can I recycle a vape?
- Vape retailer: businesses that sell vapes must offer take-back for used vapes and vape parts.
- Dedicated vape bin: use a clearly marked collection bin intended for vapes, not an ordinary battery or recycling bin unless the operator says it accepts them.
- Council service: check for a small-electrical collection or an accepting household recycling centre.
Keep the device intact, switch it off if possible and prevent it from being crushed. If it is hot, swollen, leaking or damaged, move away from combustible material if safe and ask the retailer, manufacturer or receiving facility for instructions before transport.
What the single-use vape ban means for disposal
It has been illegal for UK businesses to sell or supply single-use vapes since 1 June 2025. Old devices still require recycling, and reusable vapes are also electrical items covered by WEEE rules. GOV.UK confirms that vape sellers must accept returned vapes and parts for recycling. See the current official vape recycling guidance.
Quick answer: Vapes are electrical waste containing batteries and must not go in household rubbish or recycling. Return them to a retailer or approved electrical-waste point.
Why the correct route matters
Lithium batteries can ignite when crushed in collection vehicles or sorting plants. Devices may also contain liquid and electronic components requiring specialist treatment.
What to do
- Keep damaged devices away from heat and combustible material.
- Do not dismantle a disposable vape.
- Use a retailer take-back point or council electrical-waste service.
- Follow staff instructions for devices with leaking liquid or swollen batteries.
What to avoid
Never put a vape into any kerbside bin unless your council provides a dedicated small-electrical container. Do not pierce or burn the battery.
Other practical options
Choose refillable equipment and replaceable components where appropriate. Retailers selling electrical products have take-back responsibilities in many circumstances.
Treat every vape as battery-powered electrical waste
Even a device that no longer produces vapour may contain a charged lithium cell. Store it away from heat and metal objects, and take it to a retailer or collection point that accepts vapes or small electricals.
A swollen, hot, punctured or leaking device needs additional caution. Do not handle it unnecessarily; contact the retailer, council or fire service for advice appropriate to the immediate risk.
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Official guidance
For further information, see GOV.UK household-waste guidance and confirm the service available at your address.
Sources checked: July 2026. Local services and national requirements can change.
Frequently asked questions
Can a disposable vape go in the rubbish bin?
No. Crushing and compaction can damage the lithium battery and start a fire in a vehicle or waste facility.
Should I remove the battery first?
Only when the product is designed for routine battery removal. Do not cut open or dismantle a sealed disposable vape.