A swollen power bank is a safety problem. The lithium battery inside is failing and producing gas. Treat it with care.
What to Do Right Away
- Stop using and charging it. Unplug it and disconnect any cables.
- Place it on a non-flammable surface, away from anything that can burn, and away from people and pets.
- Do not puncture, squeeze or try to open it.
- Do not carry it in a bag or on a plane.
Why It Happens
- Age and wear of the cells
- Overcharging or a faulty charging circuit
- Heat, such as leaving it in a hot car
- Physical damage or a manufacturing defect
- Very cheap, unbranded cells
How to Dispose of It
Do not put it in household waste or normal recycling. Take it to a battery recycling point, or a store or recycling centre that accepts lithium batteries. If you are unsure, contact your local waste authority.
How to Prevent It
- Buy from reputable brands with clear specifications.
- Do not leave it charging overnight in a hot place or under a pillow.
- Keep it out of direct sun and hot cars.
- Stop using any power bank that gets very hot.
See my best AliExpress power banks and power bank airplane rules.
I’m Avi, a parent, car owner and tech lover who researches AliExpress finds for real driving life – from dash cams and diagnostics tools to the gear that survives a long road trip with kids in the back seat. I spend hours digging through specs, buyer reviews, and automotive forums (and tracking which travel toys parents report actually stay quiet past mile 50) so you don’t have to – and I only recommend what holds up under real buyer scrutiny.