One in 10 vape users still have disposables they’ve stockpiled

A new UK study has revealed that, one year on from the disposable vape ban, a surprising 10% of vape users surveyed still have stockpiled devices remaining.

Experts are now 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 - and 10% sill have disposables stockpiled even after 12 months.

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, 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 consider how to reduce the risk from stockpiled devices: “Just because the batteries are small, don’t think there isn’t a risk - it’s the total amount of energy in those vape batteries that’s a fire risk.

”If you must keep them, store them separately in very small batches and away from anything that can catch fire”.

Disposable vapes typically have a shelf life of 12 to 24 months, but poor storage conditions can shorten that dramatically. To reduce the risk, any stockpilers should 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.

Dr Marina Murphy, senior director of scientific affairs at Haypp, added: “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.

“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.”