Recycle Plastic Motor Oil Containers: A Step-By-Step Guide

Plastic motor oil containers are a significant contributor to landfill waste, with over 3 billion quart-size containers disposed of in the US each year. While many recycling programs do not accept motor oil containers due to oily residue, there are ways to dispose of them responsibly. Firstly, you can check with your local recycling program to see if they accept motor oil containers, and if so, how to prepare them for recycling. Alternatively, you can reuse the containers for storing used motor oil, which can be recycled into heating fuel or fresh motor oil. Researchers are also developing methods to recycle motor oil containers by combining recycled plastics with natural fibres that absorb the residual oil.

Identify the type of plastic

Plastic motor oil containers are typically crafted from polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or high-density polyethylene (HDPE). These containers are designed to be durable, leak-proof, and chemically resistant. HDPE is a commonly used plastic for engine oil containers due to its strength and durability. It is highly recyclable and often used for household or commercial engine oil containers.

Polypropylene (PP) is another type of plastic used for engine oil containers. It is known for its resistance to chemicals and compatibility with motor oils.

When identifying the type of plastic, it is important to consider the specific needs of the automotive and industrial sectors. Each container is designed with specific features and materials in mind. For example, HDPE square pails might be used for bulk engine oil packaging due to their space efficiency and stability during transport.

It is worth noting that some plastics may not be suitable for long-term oil storage. Certain oils, such as rapeseed oil, can cause the plastic to become hazy, sticky, or discolored over time. Hydraulic oils, for instance, can be particularly damaging to plastics due to their high viscosity.

To ensure proper recycling, it is recommended to verify with your local recycling company that your specific type of oil bottle is accepted. It is also crucial to ensure that the bottle is emptied and cleaned of any residue before recycling.

Clean the container

It is important to clean your plastic motor oil containers before recycling them. Oily residue left in oil containers may make them unsuitable for many recycling programs. While some recycling companies will still pick them up as long as they are clean, it is important to check with your service to find out whether that is the case.

To clean your plastic motor oil containers, start by emptying them completely. One way to do this is by inverting the containers and using heat to make the oil flow out faster. For example, you can position the jug so that it drains into your engine after a long drive. The waste heat from the engine will help the oil drain out. Make sure to do this in a garage so that the engine oil does not get contaminated with random stuff blowing around in the air.

After emptying the containers, you will likely need to use a detergent to clean them thoroughly. You can try rubbing neat detergent into the container and then rinsing it with lots of water. It may also help to store the jugs upside down for a week or so to allow any remaining oil to drain into the neck of the container before rinsing. Be aware that it may take a lot of detergent and water to clean the containers, and it might not be possible to get all the oil out.

If you are planning to reuse the containers for storing other liquids, be sure to follow any safety guidelines provided by your local waste management authority, as motor oil containers may be considered hazardous waste. It is not safe to repurpose an oil jug to store other products, even if those products are chemicals themselves. Mixing chemicals with oil residue can create toxic byproducts that can make you extremely ill.

Check with your local recycling program

It is important to check with your local recycling program to see if your empty motor oil containers are accepted. This is because oily residue left in the containers may make them unsuitable for many recycling programs.

First, identify what type of plastic your oil container is by looking on the bottom or side of the container for the number inside the recycling triangle. Then, contact your local recycling program and ask for details about recycling containers of this type. Many recycling programs offer explicit lists of what they accept and do not accept on their websites. Most oil bottles are made from clear number one plastic, which is the most common kind of plastic, and empty oil containers are usually accepted along with the rest of your recyclable plastic and other materials.

If your local recycling program does not accept motor oil containers, you can take them to an auto shop or service station that's certified. Used motor oil can be cleaned and recycled, which helps keep it out of waterways. Recycled oil is then used to make heating oil, asphalt, and other petroleum-based products.

If you are unsure about how to properly dispose of your used motor oil, you can take it to an oil-change shop that accepts it. Motor oil poses a far bigger risk of environmental contamination than empty plastic bottles, and it can be recycled into heating fuel or even fresh motor oil.

Drop off or await pickup

If you're looking to recycle plastic motor oil containers, there are two main options: drop-off or pickup services.

Drop-off:

If you choose to drop off your plastic motor oil containers for recycling, you'll first need to locate a recycling center or program near you that accepts this type of waste. Many retailers that sell motor oil, such as AutoZone, Advance Auto, O'Reilly Auto, and Walmart Tire & Lube Express, will accept motor oil containers for recycling. Your state may also have a list of certified oil collection facilities, and some communities have established drop-off sites. It's important to check with your local recycling center or waste management facility to understand their specific guidelines for recycling plastic containers.

Once you've located a drop-off location, ensure that your plastic motor oil containers are empty and clean before dropping them off. Rinse the containers if needed, and dispose of any excess oil properly. Do not pour oil down sewers, gutters, or onto empty land, as it can contaminate groundwater.

When dropping off your recyclables, it's helpful to sort them according to the categories accepted by your recycling center. For example, there may be separate bins for different types of plastics, paper and cardboard, and glass.

Pickup:

Alternatively, you can arrange for a pickup service to collect your plastic motor oil containers. These services operate similarly to municipal trash collection, with a truck coming by on a designated day, usually once a week, to collect your recycling. The collector will typically provide a bin for your recyclables, but there may be a small fee involved.

For pickup services, you'll still need to ensure that your plastic motor oil containers are empty and clean. Place your recyclables in the provided bin and put it in an accessible location, usually near the foot of your driveway. Unlike drop-off locations, you won't need to sort your recyclables into separate bins for different materials.

Whether you choose to drop off or await pickup, responsible disposal of plastic motor oil containers is essential. By recycling these containers, you're helping to reduce waste and protect the environment from the harmful effects of improper oil disposal.

Reuse the container

If you're looking to give your old motor oil containers a new lease of life, there are several ways to do so. Firstly, ensure the container is clean and free of any oily residue. This may involve turning the container upside down and letting the excess oil drip out, then rinsing with hot water and soap. Once your container is clean, it's time to get creative!

One idea is to cut the tops off the containers and use them to organise tools and hardware in your garage or shed. This is a great way to make use of the sturdy material and keep your workspace tidy. You could also try cutting a clean oil bottle lengthwise, filling it with dirt, and using it as a starter bed for small plants. Just be sure to avoid using these containers for anything that could be harmed by oil residue.

If you're feeling crafty, why not try upcycling your motor oil containers into something new? With a bit of creativity, these containers can be transformed into unique storage solutions for your home or garden. For example, you could cut them into fun shapes or paint them with colourful designs. The possibilities are endless!

Lastly, don't forget to check with your local recycling program to see if they have any specific guidelines or recommendations for reusing motor oil containers. Some programs may offer tips or suggestions for getting the most out of your containers before recycling them. By reusing these containers, you're not only being creative but also reducing waste and helping the environment.

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