How To Safely Dispose Of Vape Kits

Many vapers begin their vaping journey unsure on the best way to dispose of their used vape kits and products. If you’ve ever wondered “how do you dispose of vapes safely?”, you’re not alone. We`re here to clear up any confusion, helping you dispose of your vapes in the safest, most environmentally friendly way possible.

Why Is It Important To Dispose Of Vape Kits and Batteries Correctly?

Correctly disposing of vape kits, vape disposables, and batteries is an often overlooked topic for vapers. Many people assume it is sufficient to throw away vape kits, tanks, or e-liquids in the same way they would traditional cigarettes. However, recycling vapes requires special handling due to electronic components and batteries.

According to non-profit group Material Focus, in 2024 more than 8 million vapes a week were disposed of incorrectly. Since the disposable vape ban came into effect on June 5th 2025, this number has decreased, but is still substantial due to people disposing of vape kits, batteries and prefilled pods incorrectly.

Environmental Concerns

Improper vape disposal — including e-liquid bottles, coils, and batteries — can damage the environment.

• E-liquid residue can seep into soil and water sources.
• Vapes in landfill may decompose, releasing toxins into the air and contributing to greenhouse gas emissions.
• Wildlife may be harmed by leaking e-liquid and batteries.
• Our health may be affected by increased pollution of water sources, food, and air.

Safety Concerns

Another important factor when asking how to dispose of vapes correctly is safety. Incorrect disposal can lead to serious risks.

• A majority of vapes contain lithium-ion batteries which, if damaged, can cause fires. Damage commonly occurs during waste collection and compaction.
• Fires associated with lithium-ion batteries have happened in sorting facilities and on waste trucks, posing dangers to workers and causing costly repairs.

Where To Dispose Of Vapes

If you're unsure where to dispose of vapes, here are the safest and most responsible options:

• Many retailers, including Ecigwizard, offer vape take-back schemes. Under the WEEE Directive, customers can return their old electrical items when buying a new one.
• Local household waste recycling centres: These centres often have dedicated drop-off points for recycling vapes and small electricals.
• Dispose of dead, removable batteries in a battery collection point such as those found in supermarkets.

Before You Dispose Of Your Vape Kit

• If possible, remove and rinse out the liquid tank.
• Avoid disassembling your vape too much, as you may accidentally damage the battery.
• Consider whether the vape kit can be repaired rather than thrown away.
• Do not treat refillable kits as single-use vape disposables — refill pods and coils are far more sustainable and cost-effective.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Recycle E-liquid Bottles?

E-liquid bottles are usually made from glass or plastic, both recyclable. Rinse them fully before placing in household recycling. Pipettes, however, contain mixed materials and should go into general waste.

How Do I Recycle Pre-Filled Pods?

Empty prefilled pods cannot go in your household recycling bin due to mixed metals and plastics. Take them to a household waste recycling centre or use a store take-back scheme.

Can you recycle vape tanks?

Yes, vape tanks can be recycled. The glass (often Pyrex) and metal components should go to a recycling centre or take-back scheme. Smaller pieces such as plastic drip tips may need to go in general waste.

Are Vape Kits and Mods Recyclable?

Many vape kits use external batteries. These can be disposed of in battery recycling bins (often found in supermarkets). Kits with built-in batteries should be taken to a household waste recycling centre or returned via retailer take-back schemes.

Tips

• Keep a designated vape recycling box at home so you can collect used items until you’re ready to dispose of them.
• Bring dead batteries with you when visiting the supermarket, making recycling easier.
• Disassemble any removable, non-battery parts before recycling.
• Only throw away vape kits when necessary—refill rather than replace whenever you can.