These are the things that should make you stop and think before you toss:

• A device that's swollen, cracked, or leaking. That's a battery fire risk. Don't throw it in the trash—take it to a hazardous waste facility or call your local fire department for advice.
• If your city doesn't have a clear answer on vape disposal, that's a red flag. Don't just assume it's fine to throw it in the bin. Call and ask.
• Marketing that says "100% recyclable" but doesn't tell you how to recycle it. That's usually greenwashing unless there's a specific drop-off program.
• Any device that still has e-liquid in it. Some of that liquid is still considered hazardous waste, so drain it or take the whole thing to a proper facility.