When it's time to replace your car's battery, you're left to dispose of the old one. The best way to do this is to recycle it. Car batteries should never be tossed in the trash, because they contain corrosive and toxic materials that can cause an explosion or fire and contaminate the environment. To ensure safety and proper disposal, keep these do's and don'ts in mind before recycling. 

Do:

Bring the battery to an approved recycling center.

In most cases, if you bring your old battery with you when you purchase a new one, the retailer will recycle it for you. It's common for retailers to charge a nominal "core charge" when you purchase a new battery that covers the costs of recycling the used battery. If you just need to get rid of old car batteries, some stores will accept them even without a purchase, or you can bring them to a recycling center or salvage yard. 

Transport the battery safely.

Even dead car batteries can carry a charge, so before transporting it to the recycling center, cover the part with a thick plastic bag for protection. Wrapping the battery in plastic can also protect you from cracks and leaks. During transport, make sure it remains secure in an upright position. Old car batteries can leak acid if they fall over, which is dangerous and can cause injury and damage your vehicle. 

Don't:

Allow your wrench to touch both terminals.

When you are removing car batteries, make sure that your wrench and other tools do not touch the positive and negative terminals at the same time. Even if the battery appears dead, this can lead to a nasty shock and injury. Take the same care in removing  dead battery as you would with a new, fully charged one. 

Store old car batteries at home.

Recycling old car batteries is safest option for disposing of them, as it ensures that you and your family will not be exposed to the poisonous and corrosive acid they contain. Batteries can also create a risk for fire, electrical shock, and burns if they are not stored properly. While you can safely store unused batteries in a cool, dry place for a short time, as long as they are kept upright and away from children, old ones that are no longer in use can create a hazard. 

If it's time for a new car battery and you need to get rid of the old one, get in touch with Miamitown Auto Parts & Recycling in Cleves, OH. Drivers from throughout the Tri-State area rely on this scrapyard and metal recycling center for safe disposal of old cars, trucks, and vehicle parts. Learn more about the company online and call them at (513) 353-1111 with questions.