How Do You Dispose of Vapes and Carts?
Empty All-in-One vapes and 510 batteries contain lithium batteries, so they shouldn't go in household trash or recycling bins, where they can start fires. Take them to a battery or electronics drop-off or a household hazardous waste site. Empty cartridges with no battery may have their own local rules.
By ShopJeeter editorial team · Last updated · 3 min read · 3 sources
Why not just throw a vape in the trash?
Most vape batteries are lithium-based. If they're crushed or punctured in a garbage truck or a recycling facility, they can overheat and start fires. The EPA's guidance on household batteries (opens in a new tab) explains the risk and why these batteries should go to a dedicated collection point instead.
There's also leftover cannabis oil to think about. Even an 'empty' device usually has some oil left inside, which is another reason to keep it out of the regular trash and away from children and pets.
What should you do with each type?
| Item | Contains a battery? | Where it goes |
|---|---|---|
| All-in-One vape | Yes | Battery or electronics drop-off, or a hazardous waste site |
| 510 battery | Yes | Battery or electronics drop-off, or a hazardous waste site |
| 510 cartridge (empty) | No | Check local rules; many hazardous waste sites accept them |
| Packaging (box, tube) | No | Normal recycling where accepted |
Where can you take them?
Many cities and counties run household hazardous waste collection days or permanent drop-off sites, and many electronics and hardware stores collect small batteries. The EPA's household hazardous waste page (opens in a new tab) explains how these programs work and suggests contacting your local waste agency for locations.
Before you drop a device off, it's a good idea to tape over any charging port or exposed contacts so the battery can't short.
Why can't vape batteries go in curbside recycling?
Curbside recycling is sorted by machines that crush and compact materials, and a lithium battery that's damaged in that process can catch fire. Fires caused by batteries in trucks and sorting facilities are a growing problem, which is why waste agencies ask people to drop batteries off separately. Taking a minute to bag your empties and bring them to the right place keeps workers and facilities safe.
How do you store empties until then?
- Keep them in a small box or jar, away from heat and sunlight.
- Don't stack loose batteries against metal objects like keys or coins.
- Keep the container out of reach of children and pets.
- Never try to open, puncture or burn a vape battery.
What about leftover oil and packaging?
An empty cart or device almost always has a little oil left inside. Don't try to scrape or burn it out. Keep empties sealed in a small container until you can drop them off, out of reach of children and pets. If someone, especially a child or a pet, swallows cannabis oil or chews a cartridge, call Poison Control on 1-800-222-1222 or visit poison.org (opens in a new tab) straight away; for pets, call your vet.
The cardboard boxes and many tubes can go in normal recycling where your local program accepts them. Remove any batteries, carts and leftover product first, and check your area's rules for plastic tubes.
Do the rules differ by state?
Yes. Battery recycling and hazardous waste programs are run locally, and cannabis rules differ from state to state. California's Department of Cannabis Control (opens in a new tab) publishes consumer information for adults in the state, and your city or county website will list local drop-off sites. When in doubt, ask your local waste agency before you throw anything out.
Can you reduce waste in the first place?
Yes. If you vape regularly, a reusable 510 battery with replaceable carts creates less electronic waste than a series of All-in-Ones, because you keep the battery and only replace the cart. Our All-in-One vs 510 cart guide compares the two, and how to use a 510 cartridge gets you started.
Browse refills in the Jeeter Juice and 510 Postless ranges.
Where does this information come from?
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Used Household Batteries
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Household Hazardous Waste (HHW)
- State of California. Department of Cannabis Control
This post is general information for adults 21 and over. It isn't medical advice. Effects vary from person to person; start low and go slow.
Ready to choose? Browse every strain and size at the Jeeter store home page for pre-rolls, vapes, flower and kits in one place.
