Batteries - rechargeable or disposable?

[AlisonJuggler]

As a mum I have noticed a huge increase in the number of batteries we get through. (No, not for THAT...!) Games consoles, torches, toys that play annoying tunes all seem to eat batteries like I eat custard creams. Do you use disposable batteries or rechargeable? I'm wondering - should I invest in a recharging unit to overcome the guilt factor of harming the environment? Is it worth the hassle?

God yes, I use rechargeables. It's not only better for the environment, it's loads and loads cheaper!

I'm shocked that anyone with a games console doesn't use rechargeables frankly. What exactly is the hassle?

I've just never got over the hurdle of buying a recharging unit I guess. (Shameful I'm sure, but 4 babies in 6 years has somewhat dulled my common sense!). Do you recharge a batch of batteries and have them ready to use then? Or do they lose their charge if stored for any length of time? Please educate me - I want to be green before I'm grey!

It's no hassle. I keep ours with two labelled boxes nearby for charged and uncharged. The kids sort them out these days. I don't think they lose their charge. Buy decent quality eg our AA are 2700 mAh, a lot more powerful than standard. eBay is good for these. We do it for the money not just the environment and convenience, way cheaper in the long run with 4 dc.