Used cooking oil can be a tricky kitchen waste product to dispose of. While pouring it down the sink is widely known to cause blockages, one binman has warned against putting it in the food waste or recycling bin either.
The No1 Binman on TikTok, a self-proclaimed 'binfluencer', advises that used cooking oil should go in the general waste bin. He said: 'Used cooking oil should go in your general waste. Do not put it in the food waste, and definitely not the recycling bin.'
To avoid leaks, the expert recommends placing the oil in a container with a secure lid, such as a carton or jar, before putting it in the general waste. This prevents mess if the bin bag splits.
However, for large quantities of oil, such as commercial amounts, the binman advises contacting the local council or arranging a specialist collection. For normal family-sized amounts, general waste is acceptable.
Alternatively, leftover cooking oil can be reused. Recycling specialists Zero Waste Scotland suggest brushing it onto garden sheds or fences as a wood preservative, or mixing it with bird seeds to make fat balls for garden birds.
