What to Do With Swollen Rechargeable Batteries (Li-ion)
Have you noticed your phone, tablet, or other device looking a little puffed up or not fitting its case like it used to? That might be due to a swollen lithium-ion battery. These types of batteries are common in our everyday electronics, and while they're usually safe, swelling is a sign that something isn’t right. Don't ignore it—your safety could depend on how you handle the problem.
First things first, do not try to charge or use a device that has a swollen battery. The swelling happens because gas builds up inside the battery due to chemical reactions, usually from age, damage, or heat. Continuing to use a swollen battery can increase the risk of fire or even an explosion. That may sound scary, but don’t panic—there are safe steps you can take.
If you have spare electronics lying around and need a temporary replacement, you might look into “batteryequivalents”—devices or batteries that work just as well until you're able to fix the issue. But remember, that's only a short-term solution.
What should you do with the swollen battery itself? Never try to puncture or crush it. That can lead to dangerous chemical leaks or fire. And don’t throw swollen batteries in the regular trash—this can put trash collectors and the environment at risk.
Instead, take the battery to a local electronic recycling center or a hazardous waste collection site. Many electronics stores also offer recycling programs. If you're not sure where to go, a quick search online or a call to your town's waste department can point you in the right direction. Before you transport it, place the battery in a non-flammable container, like a metal box, to keep it safe.
Prevention is also important. Keep your devices out of extreme heat, don’t overcharge them, and avoid using third-party chargers that aren’t made for your device. Sometimes swelling still happens, even if you’ve done everything right—but keeping an eye out and acting early can make all the difference.
So the next time you notice your device looking thicker or acting strange, take it seriously. A swollen battery shouldn’t be ignored, but it can be handled safely and responsibly with just a little care and attention.