Getting rid of old motor oil can seem like a hassle, but with a few tools you can safely and easily dispose of any extra oil.Since motor oil is considered toxic waste, it's important that you dispose of it properly; never dump your oil outside, in a garbage can, or down a drain, as this can cause enormous environmental damage.You can have your oil packed up and ready to bring to any number of local facilities that will help you dispose of it or reuse it in a few minutes.You can usually get a drop-off facility for hazardous waste from your government.If you need more information, scroll down and read the steps.
Step 1: There is a clean metal or plastic jug.
The container should be sealed tightly with a lid.If you reuse your original motor oil container, avoid using milk jugs.Don't use containers that used to hold household chemicals.Buy 1 gallon jugs from big-box stores or online suppliers.Small plastic lunch containers are good for smaller batches.If you have a lot, use a combination of jugs and containers.You don't want to mix your oil with chemicals.
Step 2: Transfer your oil to the jug after 10 minutes of cooling it.
Hot oil can cause plastic jugs and lunch containers to burst open.You can put the catch pan in a cool area for about 10 minutes.Let the oil cool for even longer on a hot day.If it's still hot, hold your hand above the oil and feel the heat.
Step 3: Place a piece of paper on a flat surface.
Place a piece of cardboard on a flat surface to transfer oil.Line the top with a thick layer of newspaper.If you don't mind getting messy, do this in your garage.Don't create a pouring area outside because it will ruin your yard and public property.
Step 4: Put your motor oil in the jug.
You're left with a catch pan full of old motor oil after changing your vehicle's oil.Place the container on the flat surface.Hold the funnel in place with one hand and gently pour the oil through the other.It's important to hold the funnel and container steady.Put the cap on tight.If possible, use a drain pan with a pour spout.If you have a drain pan with a sealable lid, take it to the drain station.
Step 5: A dipstick is used to test for oilcontamination.
Pull out the dipstick from the hood of your vehicle.The yellow ring on the dipstick is in the engine oil compartment.Pull it out, wipe it with a cloth, and then dip it in your old motor oil.Remove it and wipe it down.There are signs of oil being contaminated.Quality oil is transparent and honey-like in color.The oil is translucent or dark brown with bits of sludge.The oil is dark and murky.
Step 6: Your car or truck is a good place to keep your jug of oil.
If you own a truck, put the jug in the bed.It can be placed in the floor pan of the passenger side of a car.Make sure your oil is secure, no matter where you store it.Keep it in place by placing it between heavy objects.Tie-down hooks should be secured to the loops on the side of the car by wrapping them around the container.There are tie-down loops on the edges of trucks.Cars have smaller loops in the interior along the upper and bottom edges.When making sharp turns, drive gently and be careful.The oil jug is likely to roll or tip over if placed in the trunk.
Step 7: If your motor oil is clean, you can drop it off at a recycling center.
You can find collections centers near you using Earth911.You can add your ZIP code to the "Where to Recycle" section.Plan your trip by finding a location close to you.Ask potential centers what they need to do to accept oil.You should consider a waste disposal center if you don't meet them.
Step 8: If it's contaminated, bring it to a toxic waste disposal center.
If your oil is in a dirty container and contaminated with other substances, you should take it to a toxic waste disposal center.Inquire about the disposal centers closest to you.It is illegal to throw oil in the garbage in most parts of the world.The search function can be used for United States residents.
Step 9: Ask for collection site locations when you visit motor oil suppliers.
All motor oil suppliers in Minnesota are required to post listings of used oil collection sites or toll-free numbers with the relevant information.Most suppliers will be able to help you.Ask the supplier what they need for oil recycling.Ask if they will accept oil that is mildly contaminated.
Step 10: You can recycle.
Ask about oil recycling services at local gas stations.Some people accept old oil for free while others charge a fee.You can find the most reasonable price by checking the fees for the gas stations in your area.You can ask the gas stations if they reuse oil.Ask them what their requirements are for oil quality.
Step 11: Ask the businesses if they need oil.
There are many repair shops and businesses that accept oil for free.It's free heat for local businesses if you ask them.Ask them how much they're willing to take so you know what to expect in the future.If you find a business that needs a regular supply of oil, keep your oil in jugs of 19 to 30 liters.