How to Dispose of Waste Oil

Improperly disposed of oil can have negative side effects.

Anyone who has changed their own oil has probably had trouble deciding how to dispose of it. Waste oil must always be recycled. Oil can have devastating effects on the environment if improperly disposed. Waste oil can be reused for other applications. Learn what to do with your waste next time you change your own oil.

Things You'll Need

• Plastic jug
• Funnel

Instructions

1. 

   Transfer the oil you have collected from the vehicle into a thick plastic jug (milk jug or water jug). It is best to use a funnel to transfer the oil from the drain pan to the plastic container. Be careful not to spill the oil as you transfer it. The smallest amount of oil spilling can have negative environmental impacts, such as harming plants or animals.

2. 

   Call 1-800-CLEAN-UP (1-800-253-2687) or visit earth911.com to find an authorized used motor oil recycle center near you. The locations serve as agents for refineries. The refineries will clean the waste oil so it can be reused for other applications.

3. Take the waste oil to the recycling center of your choice. The agent will pour the waste oil into a collection tank for the refinery to pick up. You can also usually give the refineries your used oil filter for recycling as well.

Tips & Warnings

• Use tape to secure the lid of the plastic jug while you are transporting it to prevent spillage.

References

• Earth 911 Contact
• Used Oil

Resources

• Earth 911 Locate Service