The 1st June 2025 Disposable Vape Ban: What You Need to Know

From 1st June 2025, it will be illegal to sell or supply all single-use (disposable) vapes in the UK, including both nicotine and non-nicotine versions. This ban applies to all retailers—both in-store and online—as well as manufacturers and wholesalers. The legislation is part of a government initiative to tackle environmental concerns and reduce youth vaping.

Why Are Disposable Vapes Being Banned?

Environmental Impact: Over 5 million disposable vapes were discarded weekly in the UK during 2024, contributing to significant electronic waste and environmental pollution. Disposables often end up in landfill or incinerators, wasting valuable materials like lithium and introducing hazardous chemicals into the environment.

Youth Vaping: Disposable vapes have been linked to a sharp rise in youth vaping due to their affordability, attractive flavours, and ease of use.

What Is Banned and What Is Still Legal?

Banned: All single-use, non-refillable, and non-rechargeable vapes, regardless of nicotine content.

Still Legal: Refillable and rechargeable vapes (such as pod systems, vape mods, and kits) remain available. Prefilled pods are also allowed if sold separately from the device. Flavoured e-liquids will continue to be legal under separate regulations.

What Does This Mean for Customers?

No New Purchases: After 1st June 2025, you will not be able to buy disposable vapes like Elf Bar disposables from any UK retailer, either online or in-store.

Existing Stock: If you already own disposable vapes, you can still use them. The ban targets sale and supply, not personal possession or use.

Proper Disposal: Used disposables and pods should be disposed of as electronic waste (WEEE). Do not throw them in household bins—take them to local recycling centres or participating vape shops offering take-back schemes. Some councils are now recycling electronic cigarettes through kerb-side collections, so it is worth checking with your local council whether they do. North Somerset, for example, currently collect vapes if they are left in a clear bag with your recycling.

---

Alternatives to Disposable Vapes

With the ban approaching, customers are encouraged to transition to more sustainable vaping options:

Refillable Vape Kits: These allow you to use your preferred e-liquids and are rechargeable, significantly reducing waste and long-term costs.

Prefilled Pod Systems: Devices like the Crystal CL6000 or Avomi Cliq use replaceable pods, letting you keep the battery and only replace the pod when empty. These are not affected by the ban and offer a similar user experience to disposables.

E-Liquids: Many popular disposable vape flavours are now available as bottled e-liquids or prefilled pods for use in reusable devices.

Summary Table: What Changes After 1 June 2025