A waste collector known as the No1 Binman on TikTok says used cooking oil should be placed in general waste, not in the food waste bin or recycling bin. He advises putting the oil in a sealed, non-recyclable container before throwing it away.
Why the food bin is the wrong choice
Pouring used cooking oil down the sink is widely known to be off-limits, as it can harden quickly and lead to expensive blockages. However, the binman, a self-proclaimed 'binfluencer' who shares waste disposal advice for Brits, says the food waste bin is equally inappropriate.
He explained: "Used cooking oil should go in your general waste. Do not put it in the food waste, and definitely not the recycling bin."
How to dispose of it safely
The specialist warned that pouring oil directly into the bin risks causing issues with the liner. He advised: "If you can, put it in a container or something that can't be recycled and then put it in your general waste. It stops it from going anywhere in case a bag splits."
A carton or jar with a tight-fitting lid makes a suitable container for this purpose.
There is one exception to the rule. He explained: "If you've got loads of it, like commercial, then no, it doesn't go in your general bin. You'd have to either contact your council or get someone else to come and collect it. But if it's just like a normal family-sized amount of cooking oil, then it'll just go in your general waste."
Alternative uses for leftover oil
Experts at Zero Waste Scotland have suggested recycling methods for used cooking oil. It can be applied to garden sheds or fence panels as a substitute for creosote, as it will not discolour the wood and carries no risk to surrounding plants or wildlife.
Alternatively, cooking fat left over from chicken or bacon can be used to make a homemade treat for garden birds. The fat should be poured into a suitable container, mixed with bird seeds and nuts, left to set firm, and then hung outside.
