Should oil be poured down the kitchen sink? My mother-in-law says yes but I’m not so sure.

 

Should Oil Be Poured Down the Kitchen Sink? My Mother-in-Law Says Yes, But I’m Not So Sure

In many households, cooking oil is a kitchen staple—used for frying, sautéing, and baking. But when it comes to disposing of leftover oil, opinions can vary wildly. In fact, during a recent family dinner, my mother-in-law confidently poured used oil down the sink, saying, “It’s fine—just run hot water afterward!”

That moment left me wondering: Is it really okay to pour oil down the kitchen sink?

The Short Answer: No, You Shouldn't

No matter how harmless it may seem, pouring oil down the drain is a bad idea. Even small amounts can lead to serious plumbing issues over time. It might not cause an immediate clog, but the long-term effects can be expensive, messy, and damaging—not just for your home, but for the local sewer system too.

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Here’s Why You Should Avoid It:

1. Oil Doesn’t Stay Liquid

Cooking oils may look like they’ll wash right down the drain, especially if you’re using hot water. But once the oil cools, it solidifies or sticks to the inside of your pipes. Over time, this buildup can lead to blockages and slow drainage.

2. It Can Create ‘Fatbergs’

When oil and grease enter the sewer system, they can mix with other debris and harden into large, rock-like masses known as fatbergs. These block sewage systems and can cost cities millions to remove.

3. It’s Harmful to the Environment

Oil in the water system can pollute waterways, harm wildlife, and make water treatment more difficult. What seems like a tiny household habit can have a large environmental impact.

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What About Running Hot Water and Soap?

A common myth is that if you run hot water and squirt some dish soap, the oil will dissolve and flush through safely. But this only works temporarily. Soap might break the oil into smaller droplets, but eventually it still sticks to pipes or collects further down the line.

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The Right Way to Dispose of Cooking Oil

Thankfully, disposing of oil properly is easy with a little planning:

✅ Let It Cool

Allow the oil to cool completely after cooking.

✅ Store It

Pour it into a sealable container (like an old jar, bottle, or can) and throw it in the trash when full.

✅ Reuse It

Some oils (like vegetable or peanut oil) can be reused a few times if strained and stored properly.

✅ Recycle It

Many cities have oil recycling or hazardous waste drop-off points. Used oil can be converted into biodiesel or other products.

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A Note on Greasy Foods

Even greasy residue from pans can add up. Wipe pans with a paper towel before washing them to reduce oil buildup in your pipes.

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Final Thoughts

So, while your mother-in-law might swear by her method, science and plumbing experts say otherwise. Pouring oil down the kitchen sink is a recipe for disaster—both for your home’s plumbing and the environment.

The good news? With a few small habit changes, you can protect your pipes, avoid costly repairs, and do your part for the planet.

Bottom line: Keep the oil out of the sink—and save yourself (and your plumber) the headache.

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