Every year, fat, oil, and grease block 6.7 million UK drains. That’s three homes flooded every day, £200 million in repair costs, and tonnes of polluted water released into rivers and seas.
And what is the culprit? Pouring used cooking oil down the sink.
At Greenline Environmental, we help businesses and households prevent that damage, and turn waste oil into something useful again. Here’s how to dispose of cooking oil safely, protect your plumbing, and keep the planet cleaner in the process.
What happens when you pour cooking oil down the drain
Cooking oil doesn’t just disappear. It cools, hardens, and sticks to your pipes. Over time, it builds layers of thick grease known as fatbergs, which are the same stubborn lumps that block sewers and flood streets.
Across the UK, 75% of drain blockages are caused by oil and grease. According to Water UK, over a quarter of adults admit to pouring fats down the sink, 22% down outdoor drains, and 11% down toilets.
That bad habit costs the country millions every year, and it’s entirely preventable. Knowing how to dispose of cooking oil correctly helps you avoid blockages, protect the environment, and even recycle waste into eco-friendly biofuels.
How do you dispose of cooking oil after frying?
After frying, roasting, or grilling, always let oil cool completely. Hot oil can melt plastic containers and cause burns. Once it’s safe to handle, choose the method that fits the amount you’ve got.
For small amounts:
- Absorb it: Use paper towels, cat litter, or sawdust to soak up cooled oil.
- Contain it: Place the saturated material in a small, sealed bag.
- Dispose responsibly: Add it to your general waste bin, not your recycling.
For larger amounts:
- Transfer to a sealable container – an old milk carton or bottle works well.
- Solidify it: Chill or freeze the oil until it thickens.
- Take it to a recycling centre or arrange a professional collection through a licensed waste carrier.
These simple steps stop clogs before they start and keep waste out of waterways.
How do I dispose of cooking oil safely at home?
If you’re wondering how do I dispose of cooking oil from your kitchen, think containment and consistency. Small amounts belong in sealed waste, whilst large amounts belong in recycling.
- Never pour oil down sinks or drains. It hardens and blocks pipework.
- Cool before handling. Hot oil melts plastics and attracts pests.
- Store in a non-recyclable, leak-proof container.
- Use local facilities. Many UK councils have oil collection points or drop-off banks at recycling centres.
The same applies to fats from roasting trays or deep fryers – collect, cool, and contain.
How to dispose of cooking oil UK-wide – your recycling options
Across the UK, used cooking oil is being turned into a cleaner future. Through recycling, waste oil becomes biodiesel – a renewable fuel that helps power vehicles and reduce carbon emissions.
Here’s how to dispose of cooking oil UK-wide the right way:
- Check your council website: Many local recycling centres accept small quantities of oil in labelled containers.
- Look for oil collection points: Some supermarkets, petrol stations, and community sites provide dedicated drop-off tanks.
- Partner with professionals: Businesses producing larger volumes should schedule regular collections with a licensed waste carrier.
When you recycle oil, you’re contributing to the circular economy where waste becomes a resource.
How to dispose of cooking oil in London
London’s kitchens produce thousands of litres of used cooking oil every day. Thankfully, many borough recycling centres and local councils offer dedicated oil disposal services.
If you’re running a restaurant, café, or catering business, you’ll need a compliant, eco-friendly solution. That’s where Greenline Environmental comes in.
Operating across London and the South East 24/7, we provide reliable waste collection and cooking oil disposal tailored to commercial needs. Our licensed team ensures every drop is collected safely, processed responsibly, and recycled wherever possible – all in line with Environment Agency standards.
What should you avoid when disposing of oil?
Knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing what to do. Avoid these common mistakes to protect your property and the environment:
- Never pour oil down drains or toilets. It solidifies and causes major blockages.
- Don’t mix oil with cleaning products. This spreads contamination and complicates disposal.
- Avoid pouring hot oil into bins. It can melt plastic, create odours, and attract pests.
- Skip flimsy containers. Always use sealed, sturdy bottles or jars to prevent leaks.
These small changes protect your plumbing, your local community, and your business reputation.
Eco-friendly ways to reuse or recycle cooking oil
Clean oil can often be reused safely and efficiently. Filter it through a mesh strainer or paper towel to remove food particles, then store it in a sealed container for up to three uses.
Outside the kitchen, used oil can also be repurposed:
- Converted into biodiesel – a renewable energy source for vehicles.
- Used in composting – in tiny amounts, it helps speed decomposition.
- Used for maintenance – lubricate garden tools or prevent rust.
If the oil smells rancid or looks cloudy, don’t reuse it. Instead, recycle or dispose of it responsibly.
Why safe oil disposal matters
Oil might seem harmless, but when mismanaged, it causes long-term damage in your plumbing. Blocked drains, contaminated soil, and polluted waterways all start with one careless pour.
When you work with Greenline Environmental, your waste doesn’t end up in the wrong place. It’s collected, recycled, and repurposed in ways that support cleaner cities and sustainable futures.
Final thoughts – partner with Greenline Environmental
Whether you’re a restaurant, café, school, or food manufacturer, safe oil disposal is a legal and environmental priority. With over 13 years of experience, Greenline Environmental provides eco-conscious commercial waste management across London and the Southeast – available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
We handle everything: from used cooking oil and food waste to hazardous materials, ensuring full compliance and minimal environmental impact.
If you’re ready to make oil disposal simple, safe, and sustainable, we’re here to help.
Contact Greenline Environmental today to arrange a collection or learn more about our environmentally friendly waste removal services.
Together, we can keep London’s pipes clear and its planet cleaner.