A waste collection specialist known as The No1 Binman on TikTok has clarified the correct way to dispose of used cooking oil, stating it belongs in general waste rather than the food waste caddy or recycling bin.
Why not the food waste caddy?
While pouring oil down the sink is widely discouraged due to the risk of fatbergs, the binman says the food waste bin is also unsuitable. He stated: "Used cooking oil should go in your general waste. Do not put it in the food waste, and definitely not the recycling bin."
This aligns with guidance from many UK councils, which advise that household quantities of used cooking oil can be placed in the general waste bin if properly contained.
How to dispose of it safely
The binman advised against pouring oil directly into the bin, as it could split the bag. He recommended: "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 family-sized amount of oil is OK to put in general waste."
A suitable vessel could be a carton or jar with a firm, well-fitting lid.
Exceptions and alternatives
For larger quantities, such as commercial amounts, the binman said: "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." Some household waste recycling centres also accept used cooking oil, so checking local council options is advised.
For those seeking to reuse oil, Zero Waste Scotland suggests applying it to garden sheds or fences as a water repellent, or mixing cooled cooking fat with bird seeds to make homemade treats for wild birds.
