1. Why not the bin
Batteries can start fires in bin lorries and recycling plants, and the metals inside can be recovered and reused.
2. Tape the ends
Put a piece of tape over coin batteries, 9-volt batteries and lithium cells. That stops them shorting out against each other.
3. Where to take them
Many supermarkets and electronics shops have a battery box near the entrance. In the EU and UK, most shops that sell batteries must take used ones back for free.
4. Keep them in a jar until then
A glass jar or cardboard box away from heat is a safe place to collect them. Take them in once it’s full.