How to Clean Up Leaking Batteries

Leaking batteries should be cleaned as soon as possible.

Batteries may leak because they have overheated, you have incorrectly used or charged the batteries or you have mixed battery types. Regardless of why, once a battery leaks, the leakage needs to be cleaned up from the item it leaked on. In addition, if the battery is stuck in the battery bay, the leaky battery may need to be cleaned in order to remove it.

Things You'll Need

• Vinegar or lemon juice
• Soft-bristled brush, cotton ball or cotton swab
• Baking soda
• Soft cloth

Instructions

Alkaline Batteries

1. Fill a bowl with vinegar or lemon juice.

2. Dip a small, soft-bristled brush, cotton ball or cotton swab into the liquid.

3. Rub the liquid into the leaking battery or the remnants from a leaking battery. Continue cleaning until all of the residue is removed.

Acid Batteries

1. Fill a small bowl with baking soda.

2. Dip a cotton swab or small soft-bristled brush into the baking powder. Since it is powdery, it will fall off. This is OK. Do not add water or a liquid to the baking powder.

3. Rub the baking powder into the acid leak. As the powder is moved over the leak, it will absorb the acid and begin to form a paste-like substance. Use a clean soft cloth or cotton swab to remove the paste. Continue cleaning until all of the acid is absorbed.

Tips & Warnings

• Always wear gloves and eye goggles when working with a leaking battery or its residue. The chemicals leaking from the battery can burn your skin.

References

• Your Dictionary: What Happens When Batteries Leak?