Never Pour Cooking Oil Down Your Sink — Here’s Why

While a small amount of oil might not seem significant, repeated disposal down the drain can contribute to plumbing problems over time. Cooking oil and grease can cling to the walls of pipes even when in a liquid state. Instead of washing used cooking oil down your sink, dispose of it properly according to your local waste authority’s instructions. 

Oil Can Build Up Inside Your Pipes

Fats, oil, and grease, often called FOG, disappear once they’re out of sight. They can adhere to the inside of pipes and collect other materials that flow through the drain as they cool.

Over time, accumulation may limit the flow of water and contribute to clogged kitchen drains. Hot water or dish soap does not prevent grease and oil from accumulating farther along the plumbing or sewer system. 

The Problem Goes Beyond Your Kitchen

Oil and grease can also cause problems in municipal sewer systems. Oily substances can mix with waste and result in blockages that hinder the flow of wastewater. According to EPA reports, the most common cause of sewer blockages is grease from homes, restaurants, and industries. They contribute almost 47% to the problem.

These obstructions can require professional sewer cleaning and can cause sewer backups. One effective way to help prevent these problems is to keep cooking oil out of household drains. 

Don’t Rely on Hot Water

The usual assumption is that hot water will carry it away. Hot water can temporarily keep some grease more fluid, but as the mixture cools farther along the plumbing system, grease can adhere to pipe walls. 

Dish soap disperses a thin film of grease well enough for washing up. It doesn’t do anything for a cupful of oil going down the drain. 

The correct thing to do is to keep the cooking oil out of the drainage completely.

How to Dispose of Used Cooking Oil

Any properly sealed container such as an old jar or the bottle it came in can be used to keep it.

• Let it cool: Before moving it, let the oil return to normal temperature.
• Collect it in a container: Place the cooled oil into a sealable container that will not leak.
• Dispose of it properly: Check with your local waste service for used-oil recycling options. 
• Wipe greasy cookware: Use paper towels to clean the pans before washing them.

When dealing with large amounts, check whether a local recycling centre accepts used cooking oil before putting it in the trash. 

Protect Your Drains With One Simple Habit

Do not pour cooking oil, pan drippings, or cooking grease into the sink. That applies to small amounts too; a splash at a time is how buildup starts. 

Don’t handle the oil until it has cooled down, and always follow proper handling procedures for oil. This is a simple kitchen practice that can help prevent clogged pipes, reduce plumbing problems, and keep the sewer system flowing.