How to donate or recycle hearing aids

Find a nearby place for hearing aids

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How to donate or recycle hearing aids

Ask the hearing service that supplied the aid if it accepts returns. Otherwise use a small electrical recycling point and recycle removable batteries separately.

Possible recycling routes

Specialist recycling schemesElectrical recycling pointsBattery recycling pointsHousehold waste recycling centres

Prepare hearing aids for donation or recycling

• Remove personal labels
• Take out removable batteries
• Keep the aid and accessories together for a return service

What must stay out

Keep these items separate and check the site rules before you travel.

• Button batteries must stay out of household bins
• Return routes vary by NHS service and private provider
• Do not donate an aid without checking the receiving scheme

Types of site to check

These site types can list hearing aids. Each provider sets its own limits and access rules.

• Specialist recycling schemes

  Collection services for items that most household recycling bins cannot accept. Schemes can use shops, postal returns or limited public drop-off points.

• Electrical recycling points

  Drop-off points for electrical items with a plug, battery or cable. Accepted item sizes vary by site.

• Battery recycling points

  Collection points for portable household batteries. Large shops that sell enough batteries must offer free take-back, and many recycling centres also accept them.

• Household waste recycling centres

  Council-run sites that accept many types of household recycling and waste. Local rules can cover booking, proof of address, vehicle permits and charges for some DIY waste.

Collection and take-back services

These services may offer another route when a local site does not list the item.

• Portable battery retailer take-back

  Large battery sellers provide free collection points for portable household batteries.

Related item guides

• Household batteries

  Portable batteries including AA, AAA, button cells and rechargeable battery packs.

• Electrical items

  Household products with a plug, battery, cable or crossed-out wheelie bin symbol.

• Glasses and spectacles

  Unwanted prescription glasses, reading glasses, sunglasses and usable frames.

Browse all item guides

Questions about donating or recycling hearing aids

Where can I donate or recycle hearing aids?

Enter your postcode in the local finder to search specialist recycling schemes and electrical recycling points and battery recycling points and household waste recycling centres near you. Check the provider page before you travel because item lists and access rules can change.

How should I prepare hearing aids for recycling?

Ask the hearing service that supplied the aid if it accepts returns. Otherwise use a small electrical recycling point and recycle removable batteries separately.