Experts sound the alarm on highly dangerous stockpiled disposable vapes
A new UK study reveals that one year on from the disposable vape ban, 10% of vape users surveyed still have stockpiled devices remaining. Experts are warning of the potentially life-threatening fire risks arising from stockpiling vapes for an extended period.
According to new research by online nicotine product retailer, Haypp, the ban sparked a massive stockpiling effort, with up to 70% of respondents admitting they bought and stored disposable vapes before the ban took effect.
- 20% stockpiled one month’s supply
- 26% stockpiled three months supply
- 14% stockpiled six months supply
- 10% sill have disposables stockpiled
The research also highlights a major environmental failure, with only 10% of respondents saying they recycled disposable vapes they had left after the ban. Despite the ban on disposables, waste professionals say the mountain of discarded devices is still a £1bn-a-year issue, according to a recent report in The Guardian.
Professor Emeritus Paul Christensen, an expert in lithium-ion battery safety from Newcastle University, urges vape users to stop and think about how to reduce the risk from stockpiled devices: “Just because the batteries are small don’t think there isn’t a risk – it is the total amount of energy in those vape batteries that is a fire risk. If you must keep them, store them separately in very small batches and away from anything that can catch fire”.
Shelf life matters
Disposable vapes typically have a shelf life of 12 to 24 months, but poor storage conditions can shorten that dramatically. To reduce the risk, keep any disposable vapes in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or heat sources. They should never be crushed, punctured, or stored in bulk.
The Hidden Danger
The sealed lithium-ion batteries inside disposable vapes can become unstable when exposed to heat, moisture, or physical damage, especially if stored in large quantities. In some cases, this can trigger what’s known as thermal runaway – a reaction that can lead to fires, toxic gas release, or even explosions. This risk is not specific to vapes. Any product with lithium-ion batteries needs to be handled and stored with appropriate care. E-bikes and scooters with lithium-ion batteries have been found to be the cause of a number of tragic fires across the UK in recent years.
Risky storage
While incidents are rare, the risk increases significantly when devices are mishandled or stored without care and as the number of stored vapes increases. Storing vapes in confined or unventilated spaces, like under stairs or in cupboards, increases the risk.
Dr Marina Murphy, Senior Director of Scientific Affairs at Haypp, said: “It’s very concerning to learn that one in ten of the vapers surveyed still have stockpiled devices. This highlights the ongoing need for clear consumer education about product safety and is a reminder of how blanket bans can have unintended consequences. In May, Argentina ended its long-running ban on alternative nicotine products having found it had not curtailed use but had fuelled a black market for unregulated products. Prohibition does not work. We urge anyone still purchasing disposable vapes to find a legal alternative that works for them, shop with responsible retailers, and to always recycle their devices safely and correctly.”