A well-known binman has settled the debate on how to dispose of used cooking oil, confirming it should go in your general waste bin, not the food waste caddy.
The Common Dilemma
For those who regularly cook from scratch, used cooking oil can be a problematic kitchen by-product. It is well known that pouring it down the sink is a bad idea, as it congeals and causes blockages. But many assume the food waste bin is the correct place.
The Binman's Verdict
The No1 Binman on TikTok, a self-proclaimed 'binfluencer', frequently shares disposal advice. He recently addressed the cooking oil debate, stating: "Used cooking oil should go in your general waste. Do not put it in the food waste, and definitely not the recycling bin."
He advises against pouring oil directly into the bin, as it can cause bag splits. Instead, he recommends: "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 is ideal. However, he notes an exception: "If you've got loads of it, like commercial, then it doesn't go in your general bin. You'd have to contact your council or arrange a collection. But for a normal family-sized amount, it goes in general waste."
Alternative Uses
For those seeking to reuse leftover oil, Zero Waste Scotland suggests applying it to garden sheds or fences as a creosote substitute, as it won't discolour wood and is safe near plants and animals. Cooking fat from chicken or bacon can also be turned into bird treats: pour it into a container, mix in seeds and nuts, let it set, then hang it outside for birds.
