
Yes, you can dispose of certain types of batteries at many CVS locations, but the program is specifically for recycling rechargeable batteries and cell phones, not single-use alkaline batteries. This service is offered in partnership with Call2Recycle, a leading non-profit battery recycling program. Over 90% of Americans live within 10 miles of a Call2Recycle drop-off point, which includes participating CVS stores. The program accepts common household rechargeable batteries (like those from laptops, power tools, or cameras) and any mobile phone, regardless of age or condition.
The core service is free for consumers. You can bring in items like:
It is critical to note that standard, non-rechargeable alkaline batteries (AA, AAA, 9V, etc.) are generally not accepted at CVS drop-off boxes. In many regions, these can be safely disposed of with regular trash, as modern alkaline batteries no longer contain mercury. However, state and local regulations vary, so checking your municipality's guidelines is best. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends using specialized battery recyclers for all battery types when possible to recover valuable materials and ensure safe handling.
The process is straightforward. Look for the Call2Recycle collection box, typically located near the pharmacy or front counter. For safety, you should tape the terminals of loose rechargeable batteries with clear tape to prevent short-circuiting. The collected batteries and phones are then processed to recover materials like steel, cobalt, and nickel, diverting them from landfills.
| Battery/Cell Phone Type | Accepted at Participating CVS? | Typical Disposal Alternative |
|---|---|---|
| Rechargeable (Li-ion, Ni-MH, etc.) | Yes | N/A – This is the primary service. |
| Cell Phones & Smartphones | Yes | N/A – Accepted as part of the program. |
| Single-Use Alkaline (AA, AAA, etc.) | Generally No | Check local municipal trash guidelines. |
| Car Batteries | No | Return to retailer or auto parts store. |
Before visiting, it's wise to call your local CVS to confirm they have the collection box, as not all stores may participate. This initiative is part of a broader retail trend, with major chains offering similar take-back programs to meet consumer demand for convenient recycling and comply with state stewardship laws. Properly recycling rechargeable batteries is important for environmental safety, as they contain heavy metals that can contaminate soil and groundwater if landfilled.

I just dropped off an old and a cordless drill battery at my local CVS last week. The box was right by the checkout. The clerk pointed it out when I asked. Super easy.
They only take the rechargeable kind, though. I had a bunch of regular AAs I wanted to get rid of too, but they said those don’t go in there. I ended up putting those in my regular trash after a quick online check for my town’s rules.
It’s a no-brainer for cleaning out drawers. Just tape the ends of any loose batteries before you go. Saves a trip to a special recycling center.

As someone who tries to minimize household waste, I appreciate that CVS offers this. It turns a routine errand into a chance to do something responsible. The key is managing expectations: this isn't for all batteries.
The program targets the items that truly need specialized handling—rechargeables and old phones containing metals like lithium and cobalt. These shouldn’t end up in a landfill. By partnering with Call2Recycle, CVS leverages an established network that ensures these materials are recovered properly.
For the everyday alkaline batteries, the environmental calculus has changed. Most manufacturers have removed heavy metals, so in many places, they are considered safe for disposal in your household trash. But recycling is still the gold standard if you can find a facility. I use the CVS drop-off for my rechargeables and then check with my city’s waste department for a yearly collection event for everything else. It’s about using the right tool for the job.

Here’s the simple breakdown from my experience.
What you CAN recycle at CVS:
What you CANNOT recycle there:
How to do it:
It takes two minutes. For your regular alkaline batteries, your city’s website will tell you if they go in the trash or need a special drop-off.

My perspective comes from managing IT equipment for a small office. We accumulate a lot of old tech, including batteries. CVS’s program is a convenient, accessible solution for the small-scale, residential side of recycling.
The partnership with Call2Recycle gives it credibility. This isn’t just a feel-good bin; it’s a link in a certified supply chain that recovers materials. For businesses or people with larger volumes, Call2Recycle’s website directly offers solutions, but for the one or two items a typical household needs to discard, CVS is perfectly suited.
The limitation on single-use alkaline batteries is practical. The logistics and environmental benefit of recycling them are different, and the infrastructure isn’t as widespread. It’s not a shortcoming of CVS’s program but a reflection of broader waste management realities. My advice is to use CVS for its intended purpose—rechargeables and phones—and seek other verified local options for alkaline batteries if your municipality recommends recycling them. Always tape the terminals; it’s a crucial safety step that prevents fire risk during transport and handling.


