How can I dispose of vapes and E-cigarettes?
Prevent fires and protect the planet: Safe disposal for used vapes
All vapes—both disposable and rechargeable—are classified as Small WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment). They must never be placed in general waste or mixed recycling. The lithium-ion batteries inside pose a major fire hazard and can explode when crushed in collection vehicles or at the treatment plants.
Your disposal options:
- Retail take-back: By law, any retailer selling vapes must offer a take-back scheme. You can return your used devices to the shop where you bought them.
- Local WEEE recycling bins: Westminster provides dedicated small electrical recycling bins across the city where you can safely drop off vapes.
- The Community Mobile Recycling Centre
- Household Waste and Recycling Centres (HWRC): You can also dispose of vapes in the designated electricals section at the Smugglers Way HRWC.
Small WEEE recycling bin locations in Westminster:
- SW1: Chichester Street, junction with Claverton Street, SW1V 3AY.
- W1: Cavendish Square (South West Corner), W1G 0PR.
- W2: Edgware Road opposite to junction with Frampton Street (adjacent to Parson's House), W2 1BT.
- W9: Harrow Road, opposite the Police Station, W9 3RD