Solved: What to Store a Single AA or AAA Battery in?

Russ on 30/08/2024 - 12:55
Last edited 03/09/2024 - 00:24

Edit 1: Thanks everyone, I've found a solution, see my post below: https://www.ozbargain.com.au/comment/15658371/redir

Edit 2: The solutions keep coming, and many look even better! I've changed to a new AA holder made from irrigation parts, available at Bunnings. My post is here: https://www.ozbargain.com.au/comment/15664944/redir

Original post

I'm looking for small containers to store single AA and AAA batteries in. I want to emphasise I want to store ONE battery per holder, everyone so far is suggesting multi-battery cases.

Ideal characteristics of the container:

  • only a little larger than the battery being stored
  • made of a plastic that flexes when dropped, like milk-bottle plastic, instead of shattering
  • screw-top lid

The reason why: all of my flashlights, including the ones in my tool boxes, use single AA or AAA batteries, and I'd like to keep a spare in the tool box and not have it short out. Or when going on holidays, my hand-held luggage scale uses 2xAAA batteries, but is activated by a pushbutton that could easily be pushed by other things I am carrying, flattening the battery. So I want to keep one of those batteries outside the luggage scale, until I want to use the scale.

I can see lots of small plastic vials/test tubes/sample bottles on eBay, but the dimensions they give are almost always the outside dimensions, not the inside dimensions, so I can't be sure if the battery will fit. The only single "battery storage" I can see is 18650 size, which is a bit large for a single AAA battery.

So, does anyone store single AA and AAA batteries, and is that container purchasable in small quantities?

Thanks in advance.

Maybe something like this:
https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/386570942337

But I know that one is too small, just from the outside dimensions.

Electrical & Electronics

Comments

  • Russ on 30/08/2024 - 12:57

    I have noticed that a ChapStick container, when empty, may be an option for a single AAA battery - if I can figure out how to remove the plastic screw thread in the middle without damaging it. Doesn't have a screw top though, but they're pretty good at keeping the lid on.

    • HeWhoKnows on 31/08/2024 - 11:18
      -1

      Small pills containers

      • Antikythera on 31/08/2024 - 17:40

        film canister? diameter is plenty. not sure on length. not screw top, but should remain sealed.

  • soan papdi on 30/08/2024 - 13:02
    +7

    You’re overthinking this. Use the smallest ziplock bag that’ll fit the battery.

    • Russ on 30/08/2024 - 13:05

      Tried and failed. Zip-lok bags don't survive in a tool box, with tools (many sharp) rattling around.

      • AustriaBargain on 30/08/2024 - 16:26
        +1

        Why not just get the multiple ones? The plastic clamshell tray that holds four. Though I'd want one that is moisture resistant too actually, to stop batteries from rusting early.

      • anonymous01 on 30/08/2024 - 22:19
        +2

        What's your budget? You can buy a 3d printer and print so many designs that would not short circuit the battery.

        Examples: https://www.printables.com/search/models?q=battery%20dispens…

        If you do not wish to buy a 3dprinter, may be look for something similar in those designs that you can buy instead of individual case for each battery?

      • brandt on 03/09/2024 - 14:22

        zip lock and taped to the tool box lid

    • TightLikeThisx on 30/08/2024 - 23:14

      Don't do this they will leak.

      • soan papdi on 30/08/2024 - 23:34
        +2

        Really? Why?

        • TightLikeThisx on 31/08/2024 - 10:10

          They get mixed around so it's hard to keep a system of using the oldest battery first.

          Old fully charged batteries will leak at a certain point.

    • Russ on 30/08/2024 - 13:14
      -2

      Thanks, but you seem to have missed

      single AA and AAA batteries

      All of those are larger than the single 18650 holder I mentioned as being excessively large.

      I've edited the post to make this clearer.

      • scrimshaw on 30/08/2024 - 13:37
        +1

        These AAA to AA size battery adaptors will hold a single battery but they are not screw top, they are friction fit
        https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/186492791564

        But I think if you want a container that 'bounces' instead of cracking, it's going to be something you may have to 3d Print or craft by hand. Sugru for example is a kind of moulding glue that hardens into a silicone rubber. You could probably wrap it around the battery and make two halves of it to make a lid and container.

        You can buy a cheap version of it on Bunnings called Loctite Kintsuglue

        • Russ on 30/08/2024 - 13:43
          +1

          That's close to what I want, but as they're actually battery adapters, the contacts are still exposed and can be shorted out by all my metal tools.

          if you want a container that 'bounces' instead of cracking

          I'll correct the wording on that. I'm after plastic that flexes when dropped, not plastic that shatters.

          • scrimshaw on 30/08/2024 - 13:44
            +3

            @Russ: Couldn't you just tape up the conducting ends with some tape or pull them out?

            • Russ on 30/08/2024 - 13:45

              @scrimshaw: Good idea.

              Still looking for a single AA holder though, an AA-to-C adapter isn't suitable, no positive pip to remove.

        • rumblytangara on 30/08/2024 - 15:59

          Sugru is fantastic stuff- I have used loads of it. But I wouldn't use it to make a battery container, it's too fiddly and imprecise.

          I hadn't realised that Sugru was still easily available- irrc they went through a bit of a disastrous market expansion five or more years ago and burned a lot of their investors. Good to know they are still around.

  • singingwolf on 30/08/2024 - 13:11
    +1

    I have heaps of batteries so use this: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B089F9YDFC?ref=cm_sw_r_apan_dp_…

    • Russ on 30/08/2024 - 13:15
      -3

      Thanks, but you seem to have missed

      single AA and AAA batteries

      That box won't even fit in my toolbox!

      I've edited the post to make this clearer.

      • singingwolf on 30/08/2024 - 14:22

        All good. I just carry this thing around. Everything from button cell to 9v and includes a built in tester. The kids always have some new gadget that needs batteries

    • Poor Ass on 30/08/2024 - 21:22
      +1

      I saw this one and that also sell at Costco

      Bit overpriced piece of plastic just to store batteries

      • singingwolf on 31/08/2024 - 11:08

        Aus Post have them cheap sometimes

  • DashCam AKA Rolts on 30/08/2024 - 13:20
    +1

    Wrap in a bit of foam or felt, close with duct tape. Done.

    • Yummy on 30/08/2024 - 13:28
      +2

      Glad wrap. Done.

  • Porker on 30/08/2024 - 13:21
    +3

    Or when going on holidays, my hand-held luggage scale uses 2xAAA batteries, but is activated by a pushbutton that could easily be pushed by other things I am carrying, flattening the battery. So I want to keep one of those batteries outside the luggage scale, until I want to use the scale

    Could you perhaps simply swap one of the batteries such that it's the wrong way around? Then when you want to use it, simply re-orientate to correct polarity

    • DashCam AKA Rolts on 30/08/2024 - 13:31
      +3

      Or put a piece of paper between the battery terminal and a contact. Only need to do it on one connection. Won't turn on until the paper is removed.

      • Russ on 30/08/2024 - 13:38

        put a piece of paper between the battery terminal and a contact

        That's a good idea!

        But as I'm also looking to store a spare battery for my flashlight, I'll just use the same method for the luggage scale.

    • Russ on 30/08/2024 - 13:35
      +1

      swap one of the batteries such that it's the wrong way around

      Not with this luggage scale.

      Like many devices that take batteries, it has the positive contact recessed, and they've designed the battery holder to be too short, so you can't insert the battery the wrong way around.

      May work for other devices with two batteries, but would damage the reversed battery in devices with three or more batteries.

  • ihbh on 30/08/2024 - 13:23

    Got a wife or gf? Give them the tablets and use the container.

    Fits a couple, but not too many.

    https://www.chemistwarehouse.com.au/buy/92842/wagner-profess…

    • Yummy on 30/08/2024 - 13:28

      Thanks, but you seem to have missed

      single AA and AAA batteries

      I've edited the post to make this clearer.

  • boomramada on 30/08/2024 - 13:34

    I want this https://www.etsy.com/au/listing/1688323435/aa-and-aaa-batter…

    There was a guy who used to make them for $5 from a 3d printer, he left the city :(

    Aliexpress got this https://vi.aliexpress.com/item/1005006579255897.html bit expensive :(

    • Russ on 30/08/2024 - 13:48

      From the post:

      The only single "battery storage" I can see is 18650 size, which is a bit large for a single AAA battery.

      You found the same one I found.

      • Yummy on 30/08/2024 - 13:51
        +1

        I am a psychic mind reader

        I give up…

    • Russ on 30/08/2024 - 13:50

      From the post:

      The only single "battery storage" I can see is 18650 size, which is a bit large for a single AAA battery.

      You found the same one I found.

      • jv on 30/08/2024 - 13:54
        -3

        You found the same one I found.

        Out of all the products on ebay, what are the chances of that ??? 😲

        • Russ on 30/08/2024 - 13:55

          Pretty good, since someone else found it before you did.

          • jv on 30/08/2024 - 13:57
            -2

            @Russ: So 3 people found exactly the same product on ebay out of 2 billion listings?

            I find that hard to believe.

            • figarow on 31/08/2024 - 07:21

              @jv: I also found it hard to believe, what are the chances!

    • Yummy on 30/08/2024 - 13:52

      Jv, it doesn't have screw top and it wont bounce/easily shatters.

      • jv on 30/08/2024 - 13:57

        I give up…

  • pegaxs on 30/08/2024 - 14:06
    +2

    Because a battery holder for 2~4 AA batteries takes up sooooooo much more space.

    I have AA batteries in my tool box for lights and whatever else I need them for, and one isnt going to cut it. Just one of those plastic cases that holds 4 and be done with it… It's about a years supply of AA batteries for an LED torch.

    InB4: REEEEEE it needs to hold 1 only!!!

    Ok then;

    Buy a 3D printer and make your own.

  • Agarwal on 30/08/2024 - 14:08
    +3

    This doesn't have a screw top but it holds aa batteries and I guess you could get someone to print it with flexible filament if you know someone with a 3D printer:

    https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2098850

    • Russ on 31/08/2024 - 18:53

      I was able to purchase a somewhat-good solution, see below. I half suspected I might have to 3D-print to get exactly what I want, thanks for the link!

  • sickburn on 30/08/2024 - 14:28
    +2

    Want the best of the best? CountyComm:
    https://countycomm.com/collections/capsules/products/delrin-…

    Otherwise I've found that a Vicks inhaler tube (with the stalk cut off) will fit an AAA.

    I have an Advil travel bottle somewhere in the house and I think it'd fit an AA cell.

    • Russ on 31/08/2024 - 18:51

      Those Delrin ones look really nice, looks like they're machined from solid Delrin rod, possibly mil-spec. As they appear to be machined rather than injection-moulded, the price seem appropriate, if expensive.

      a Vicks inhaler tube

      an Advil travel bottle

      I had to look up what "Advil" is. Both good suggestions.

      • sickburn on 01/09/2024 - 11:28
        +1

        I haven't actually seen the Advil bottles sold here except for in Costco

        • Russ on 01/09/2024 - 11:33

          Ah, that's probably why I couldn't see it when I went looking. I could see the tube on Google Images, and on Amazon US, but not when I tried shopping. Thanks for clarifying!

          • sickburn on 01/09/2024 - 17:44
            +1

            @Russ: Just for fun, here's a comparison of the Advil and Vicks inhaler tube.

            The inside length of the Advil tube is about 61mm with an inside diameter of about 16mm. An AA cell will rattle around in there, but nothing a wad of cotton won't fix.

            https://imgur.com/a/u6WGWaA

  • brendanm on 30/08/2024 - 15:07
    +2

    Good lord. Wrap some insulation tape around it longways.

  • Shitforbrains on 30/08/2024 - 15:13
    +5

    I keep spare batteries inside aluminium-bodied LED torches. Mine are durable, waterproof, and they can also be used as torches if necessary.

  • TheGhost on 30/08/2024 - 15:23

    An old pen or marker tube. With pen, you can stuff paper into it so room for only one and also screw-able.

    • Russ on 31/08/2024 - 17:50

      I really like your idea, it's the ultimate in price and recycling as well.

      I'm assuming you mean the thick whiteboard markers, with an aluminium body and the plastic part can be be unscrewed. Alas, I've checked, and I don't have any.

      Thanks!

  • Jezah on 30/08/2024 - 15:51

    I have found these majestic options on this fine Friday afternoon:

    https://www.amazon.com.au/tunghey-Battery-Cylindrical-Plasti…

    https://www.amazon.com.au/Hegebeck-Plastic-Transparent-Conta…

  • rumblytangara on 30/08/2024 - 15:51
    +3

    If you really can't find something off the shelf, get something like this printed at your local library if they have a printer. Or know anyone with a printer.

    https://makerworld.com/en/models/134488

    This is a 50 minute print job that takes 8 grams of plastic.

    If it were me, I'd just use a bit of tape.

    • Russ on 31/08/2024 - 17:53

      Thanks for the design you found, it's exactly what I was looking for. Although I found a solution that I have gone with for the moment, one that I could simply purchase instead of fabricate, yours is my backup solution if my solution doesn't work out.

  • Loot N Plunder on 30/08/2024 - 15:57
    +6

    Make your own with polly pipe (13mm AAA - 19mm AA) and end stoppers/plugs/caps
    Just tried it, works perfectly and strong

  • pjetson on 30/08/2024 - 16:21
    +1

    What about something like this https://www.jaycar.com.au/2aaa-switched-battery-enclosure/p/… They have AA and AAA versions. Maybe you could tear out the metal bits and wires inside it?

  • BewareOfThe Dog on 30/08/2024 - 16:26
    +1

    Maybe search for a Tampon cannister instead. Make sure it's at least 50.5mm in length

    • Russ on 31/08/2024 - 18:02
      +1

      I did look through the candy section at the shops, and through the vitamin section, but I didn't think to look through the hygiene section. Thanks!

  • sumyungguy on 30/08/2024 - 18:11
    +1

    I have heat shrink tubing that fits AA and AAA (two different sizes)

    • Russ on 31/08/2024 - 18:46

      I'm assuming you mean un-shrunk heat-shrink tubing? How do you stop the battery falling out?

      • sumyungguy on 31/08/2024 - 18:59

        A cheap interim solution only until you source something reusable. Shrink the ends which means as many spare cells you desire in an insulated impact-resistant outer. These would be your emergency spares; wouldn't you routinely swap out batteries from charged stock?

        • Russ on 31/08/2024 - 19:06

          Yes, I'm after something that I'll probably use every few months, whenever my flashlight goes flat. I did find a solution that I like: https://www.ozbargain.com.au/comment/15658371/redir

          Thinking again about how heatshrink tube could be used, maybe use a piece 3x as long as the battery. Put the battery inside the tube, positioned mid-way in tube, fold both tube ends over to lie against the battery, and secure the ends in position with a reusable velcro cable tie.

  • Boioioioi on 30/08/2024 - 19:47
    +2

    suppository

    • Russ on 31/08/2024 - 18:24

      Possibly, I'd have to purchase one to see the dimensions.

      Thanks!

  • greater mimic on 30/08/2024 - 20:45
    +3

    Would an m&m tube fit a battery?

    https://mysweeties.com.au/products/m-m-mini-tube-35g

    • Russ on 31/08/2024 - 18:22

      I considered a similar candy tube, but it looks more 18650-battery size, or even larger.

      Thanks!

  • Guerilla89 on 30/08/2024 - 22:18

    just buy some small zip lock sandwich bags from woolies.
    https://www.woolworths.com.au/shop/productdetails/229981/her…

  • miwahni on 31/08/2024 - 00:13
    +2

    Berocca tube?

  • trapper on 31/08/2024 - 00:47

    Wrap electrical tape end over end a couple times and you're good to go.

  • Daddy Chill on 31/08/2024 - 04:26
    +2

    Here buds,

    https://www.valhallatactical.com.au/product/coghlans-plastic…

    https://countycomm.com/products/delrin-aaa-battery-locker-wa…

    Or if you have any spark plug boxes you can put one in those.

    I hope I don't get the dreaded:

    "Thanks, but you seem to have missed

    single AA and AAA batteries"

    Error

    • Russ on 31/08/2024 - 18:08

      Those Delrin ones look really nice, looks like they're machined from solid Delrin rod, possibly mil-spec. As they appear to be machined rather than injection-moulded, the price seem appropriate, if expensive.

      The match storage case also looks good, perhaps the right size for an AAA battery? They don't give dimensions, so it's hard to know.

      Thanks!

  • OBEY YOUR MASTERS on 31/08/2024 - 07:36

    Its simple. You need a 3D printer.

  • admello on 31/08/2024 - 07:40
    +2

    If you or someone you know has a 3D printer, there are loads of custom battery cases and holders that can be printed in minutes. Some look like they will suit your requirement.

    For e.g.
    https://makerworld.com/models/62335

  • bbinc on 31/08/2024 - 08:40
    +1

    Got me thinking about rollon rubber finger stalls. Or you could make a leather or vinyl wrap sealed with velcro. Like a little envelope sealed at each end and roll the Velcro around.

  • 82norm on 31/08/2024 - 09:46

    Check out Temu. If they don’t have something, no one will.

  • Specialist Diaz on 31/08/2024 - 09:53

    Screw-top plastic vials.

  • BartholemewH on 31/08/2024 - 11:11
    +2

    This has to be the most made up problem on OzB? Loving the rejection of every suggestion. Well played OP.

    • Russ on 31/08/2024 - 18:31
      +2

      Loving the rejection of every suggestion.

      Well, I wasn't precise enough in my initial description. Then when I edited it to be more precise, most people didn't read further than the title, and a couple suggested the 18650 holder I'd already listed.

      Now, with hindsight, perhaps I should have started by linking the 18650 battery holder, and asking if anyone knew of a smaller holder that is also resistant to being bashed around in a toolbox.

      Posting queries on OzBargain is a learning process, I'm slowly getting better at it.

  • backpaqer on 31/08/2024 - 11:53
    +1

    get the 18650 holder and pack the battery in with cotton wool.
    as for the luggage scales, if they're any good they have diodes to prevent reverse polarity, so just install the battery the wrong way round. If there are two batteries, just flip one the wrong way.

  • Hangryuman on 31/08/2024 - 11:55
    +1

    have a look in DAISO - they carry lots of interesting plastic containers

  • 2esc on 31/08/2024 - 12:46
    +1

    Life's struggles people face.

  • jonkvh on 31/08/2024 - 13:08
    +1

    Be careful with how many batteries you store, have had stored batteries go off many times, leak. Found you just better off leaving them in their original containers. Learnt the hard way.

    • Russ on 31/08/2024 - 18:12

      have had stored batteries go off many times, leak.

      True. Fortunately, I only use eneloops and similar rechargeable batteries. As long as they are charged properly, they never leak.

  • Blargman2001 on 31/08/2024 - 13:13
    +1

    Try looking for something called a DRAM vial they're used to hold pills and come in all sorts of sizes. There will be one that will hold your battery.

    • Russ on 31/08/2024 - 18:19

      I did list something similar in the post, but I couldn't find inside dimensions, so no way to know which sizes will fit well without buying a couple of every size.

      Thanks!

  • Elppa8 on 31/08/2024 - 15:00
    +1

    Buy yourself a box Nescafé cappuccino sachets. They have a choc powder shaker that a single AA battery will fit into. Half price at Coles currently.

    • Russ on 31/08/2024 - 18:19

      That's inventive, thanks!

  • Zondor on 31/08/2024 - 15:31
    -3

    Anus

    • 2025 on 31/08/2024 - 18:14

      emphasise I want to store ONE battery per holder

      not to brag or nothing, but I bet I could fit way more up there. Way more! Easy!

    • kaleidoscope on 01/09/2024 - 01:11

      May cause severe burns 🤷‍♂️

  • GordonD on 31/08/2024 - 16:38
    +1

    I found something great to store a battery in. It is exactly the right size to fit a battery in. It is durable. A small torch. And while its storing it, it can be used as a torch.

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