How to Recycle Automotive Oil
Many automobile owners still change their own oil to save money. Consequently, you have to decide what to do with the used oil. It is easy to recycle automotive oil and it is good for the environment. Old oil left in garages, storage sheds or tossed on the ground becomes a danger to our water supplies, people and wildlife. Learn how to package used automobile oil and where to find recycling centers for safe disposal.
Drain your automobile oil into a clean, chemical-free bucket or tub. It is essential that the container be free of contaminants because eventually your oil is mixed with other oil collected at recycling centers. Recycling centers take in small amounts of used oil from many different sources. After enough oil is accumulated, it will be sent out to be refined into new substances, products and heating oil.
- Select a jug or plastic container, which has been thoroughly cleaned to place the oil in for delivery to the recycling center. Used milk jugs work particularly well for this task when sufficiently cleaned. Insert a funnel into the container and pour in the used oil. Place the lid on securely. Attach a masking tape label onto the container and label it as "used motor oil."
- Locate an oil recycling center at the website Consult Earth911. Key in "used motor oil" and your zip code to find a convenient location close to home. Other sources for recycling automotive oil include toxic substance agencies, auto service shops and local garages. Many gas stations and automobile service shops gladly accept your used oil for free as a public service to the community rather than polluting our environment.
- Visit the recycling center and hand them your used automobile oil.