How to Discard Expired Cooking Oil

Jupiterimages/BananaStock/Getty Images

Pouring cooking oil down the drain may seem harmless, but the oil often sticks to the insides of pipes. As the goo solidifies over time, it can cause serious blockages. Getting rid of old cooking oil is as easy as taking out the trash -- or the recycling.

Solving a Messy Problem

If your city offers an oil recycling program, place the oil in a coffee can or another secure container, then place the container in a warm room so it remains fluid until you take it to the recycling facility. Otherwise, pour the oil into a sealed plastic, metal or glass container, then place the container carefully in the trash can with your regular garbage.