How to dispose of Cooking Oil

Small amounts of vegetable or olive oil can be added to your home compost bin. However, be cautious - only add small quantities at a time, as large amounts of oil can create an imbalance in the compost and harm the soil. Avoid adding animal fats or oils, as they can attract pests and cause odour problems.

Drop off at a recycling centre - Used cooking oil can often be recycled. Collect the cooled oil in a sealable, non-breakable container and take it to a recycling facility that accepts cooking oil. Recycled oil can be converted into various products such as biofuel, cosmetics, detergents and livestock feed. Check with your local council or visit the Planet Ark website for recycling locations near you.

You can also always check with your local council for specific guidelines on cooking oil disposal or recycling, as some councils may have unique regulations or offer specialised recycling or disposal programs.

If reuse, composting or recycling is not an option, small amounts of cooking oil can be safely disposed of in the general waste. Here’s how:

1. Combine with absorbent material: Mix small amounts of used oil with absorbent materials like paper towels, cat litter or sawdust. This will help absorb the oil and prevent leaks. Place the soaked material in a sealed, non-breakable bag and dispose of it in the general waste bin.

Freeze the oil: Chill or freeze the used oil until it solidifies. Once solid, scoop it into a disposable container and throw it in the general waste bin.

Container disposal: If you have a larger amount of oil, let it cool completely, then pour it into a sealable, non-breakable container (like an old plastic bottle or jar). Ensure the container is tightly sealed to prevent leaks and dispose of it in the general waste bin.