20 best containers to store used cooking oil; Properly storing used cooking oil is not only essential for managing kitchen waste but also for environmental reasons.
Disposing of cooking oil down the drain can lead to plumbing issues and contribute to pollution. Here are the top 20 containers for safely storing used cooking oil:
1. Glass Jars:
Clean, dry glass jars with tight-fitting lids are excellent for storing small amounts of used cooking oil.
Ensure the oil is cooled before pouring it into the jar.
Procedure: Wash the glass jar thoroughly and allow it to dry completely.
Once the used cooking oil has cooled down, carefully pour it into the glass jar.
Seal the jar with its lid, ensuring it’s airtight to prevent leaks.
2. Plastic Containers:
Reusable plastic containers or food-grade buckets are a practical choice for storing larger quantities of used cooking oil.
Procedure: Clean the plastic container or bucket thoroughly, removing any food residue. Let it dry completely.
Once the used oil has cooled, pour it into the container, ensuring the lid or cover is tightly sealed.
3. Metal Cans:
Empty metal cans from canned goods can be used for oil storage. Make sure the cans are clean and dry.
Procedure: Rinse the metal can to remove any remaining food, and let it dry completely.
Once the used cooking oil is at room temperature, pour it into the metal can and seal it with its lid or cover.
4. Mason Jars:
Mason jars with screw-on lids are a popular choice for sealing and storing used cooking oil.
They come in various sizes to suit your needs.
Procedure: Wash the Mason jar and lid thoroughly and ensure they are completely dry.
Pour the used oil into the Mason jar after it has cooled. Seal the jar with the lid, making sure it’s airtight.
5. Coffee Cans:
Large, empty coffee cans can be cleaned and used to store used oil. Ensure the lids are secure.
Procedure: Clean the empty coffee can, especially removing any coffee residue, and let it dry.
Once the used cooking oil is at room temperature,
Carefully pour it into the can and seal it with the lid, ensuring it’s tightly closed.
6. Plastic Bottles:
Empty and clean plastic bottles with screw-on caps work well for oil storage.
Just make sure they are food-grade and free from any residual odors.
Procedure: Clean the plastic bottle, remove any odor, and allow it to dry.
After the used oil has cooled, pour it into the bottle and seal it with the cap, ensuring it’s airtight.
7. Empty Olive Oil Bottles:
Repurposing empty olive oil bottles with their built-in pour spouts is an eco-friendly option for used cooking oil.
Procedure: Thoroughly clean the empty olive oil bottle, ensuring it’s free from any residual oil. Allow it to dry completely.
Once the used cooking oil has cooled, pour it into the olive oil bottle and seal it with the built-in pour spout.
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8. Recycled Juice Bottles:
Empty juice bottles can be cleaned and used to store used cooking oil.
They come in various sizes and are usually made of food-safe plastic.
Procedure: Clean the empty juice bottle, remove any juice residue, and ensure it’s dry.
After the used oil has cooled, pour it into the bottle and seal it with the cap, making sure it’s airtight.
9. Pickle Jars:
Wash and repurpose empty pickle jars with tight-sealing lids for used oil storage.
Procedure: Clean the empty pickle jar, especially removing any pickle smell, and allow it to dry.
Once the used cooking oil is at room temperature, pour it into the pickle jar and seal it with the lid, ensuring it’s tightly closed.
10. Glass Oil Dispensers:
Glass oil dispensers with pour spouts and caps are perfect for storing used cooking oil.
They make it easy to pour the oil when needed.
Procedure: Clean the glass oil dispenser and ensure it’s completely dry.
Once the used cooking oil has cooled, carefully pour it into the dispenser. Seal it with the cap, making sure it’s airtight.
11. Zip-Top Bags:
Seal used cooking oil in zip-top bags and freeze them. This method is space-saving and convenient.
Procedure: Allow the used oil to cool down, and then carefully pour it into a zip-top bag.
Squeeze out excess air and seal the bag tightly. Lay it flat in the freezer for easy storage.
12. Empty Plastic Milk Jugs:
Cleaned and dried plastic milk jugs can be used for storing larger quantities of used oil. Ensure the cap is secure.
Procedure: Rinse and thoroughly clean the plastic milk jug. Let it dry completely.
Once the used cooking oil is at room temperature, pour it into the milk jug and seal it with the cap.
13. Grease Keeper Containers:
Grease keeper containers are specially designed for storing used cooking oil.
They often have built-in strainers for removing food particles.
Procedure: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for using the grease keeper container.
Typically, you pour the used oil into the container, allowing food particles to settle at the bottom while the clean oil collects on top.
14. Reusable Oil Storage Bags:
Some companies offer reusable, food-grade silicone oil storage bags designed to withstand high temperatures.
Procedure: Clean the reusable oil storage bag and ensure it’s dry.
Once the used cooking oil has cooled, pour it into the bag and seal it with the zip-top closure.
15. Recycled Pringles Cans:
Clean and dry empty Pringles cans to store used cooking oil. They have a lid that seals tightly.
Procedure: Thoroughly clean the empty Pringles can, especially removing any potato chip residue, and let it dry.
After the used cooking oil has cooled, pour it into the can and seal it with the lid, ensuring it’s tightly closed.
16. Empty Baby Food Jars:
Small glass baby food jars can be repurposed for storing small amounts of used oil.
Procedure: Clean the glass baby food jar, making sure it’s free from any baby food remnants, and allow it to dry.
Once the used cooking oil has cooled, pour it into the baby food jar and seal it with the lid.
17. Empty Soup Cans:
Rinse and dry empty soup cans to use as temporary storage for used oil. Be sure to clean them thoroughly.
Procedure: Clean the empty soup can, remove any soup residue, and let it dry.
Once the used cooking oil is at room temperature, carefully pour it into the can and seal it with the lid.
18. Empty Squeeze Bottles:
Reuse empty squeeze bottles with caps for storing used cooking oil. The squeeze feature allows for easy pouring.
Procedure: Clean the empty squeeze bottle, ensuring it’s free from any residual condiments or liquids, and allow it to dry.
After the used cooking oil has cooled, pour it into the squeeze bottle and seal it with the cap.
19. Glass Beverage Bottles:
Cleaned and sanitized glass beverage bottles with screw-on caps can be used for storing used oil.
Procedure: Thoroughly clean the glass beverage bottle and ensure it’s dry. Once the used cooking oil has cooled, pour it into the bottle and seal it with the cap.
20. Plastic Takeout Containers:
Wash and dry plastic takeout containers with secure lids. They are suitable for temporary storage of used cooking oil.
Procedure: Clean the plastic takeout container, remove any food residue, and let it dry. Once the used cooking oil is at room temperature, pour it into the container and seal it with the lid.
How Do You Store Cooking Oil After Use?
Properly storing used cooking oil is essential for both kitchen management and environmental responsibility.
Here are the steps to follow when storing used cooking oil:
- Cool the Oil: Allow the used cooking oil to cool down to room temperature.Procedure: After you’ve finished cooking, let the oil cool in the pan or container. Avoid pouring hot oil into a storage container.
- Strain It: Use a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove any food particles or debris from the oil.Procedure: Place the strainer or cheesecloth over the storage container, and slowly pour the used oil through it. This will help remove any solid remnants and improve the oil’s quality.
- Select a Container: Choose a suitable container from the list above, ensuring it’s clean and dry.Procedure: Make sure your chosen container is clean and free from any residual odors. Let it dry completely.
- Pour and Seal: Carefully pour the used oil into the container and seal it with an airtight lid or cap.Procedure: Pour the cooled, strained oil into the container of your choice. Ensure the lid or cap is tightly sealed to prevent air from entering.
- Label the Container: Label the container with the date when the oil was used. This helps you keep track of its freshness.Procedure: Use a marker or label maker to mark the container with the date you used the oil. This is especially important if you store various types of cooking oil.
- Store It: Store the container in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat.Procedure: Find a suitable storage location that is cool and dry. Avoid exposing the oil to direct sunlight and heat, as these can cause it to spoil more quickly.
- Dispose Responsibly: When the container is full or you’re ready to dispose of the oil, find a recycling center or facility that accepts used cooking oil for proper disposal or recycling.Procedure: Contact your local recycling center or waste disposal facility to inquire about their used cooking oil disposal options. Do not pour used oil down the drain or dispose of it in the trash.
By following these steps and selecting an appropriate container,
You can effectively store and manage used cooking oil while minimizing its impact on the environment.
FAQs
- Can you reuse used cooking oil?Used cooking oil can be reused if it has been properly strained and stored. However, repeated use of cooking oil can lead to a decline in quality and taste. It’s best to limit reusing oil to two or three times.
- How can I dispose of used cooking oil responsibly?To dispose of used cooking oil responsibly, avoid pouring it down the drain or tossing it in the trash. Instead, check with your local recycling center or waste disposal facility for information on oil recycling or disposal options.
- Is it safe to store used cooking oil in the refrigerator?Storing used cooking oil in the refrigerator can help prolong its freshness. Be sure to use an airtight container to prevent odors from other foods in the fridge from affecting the oil’s taste.
- Can you mix different types of used cooking oil together for storage?It’s generally best to avoid mixing different types of used cooking oil together for storage. Mixing oils with distinct flavors can result in an undesirable taste in your dishes.
- How long does used cooking oil last in storage?The shelf life of used cooking oil depends on factors like storage conditions and the number of times it has been reused. Properly stored, it can last up to several weeks.
Conclusion
Properly storing used cooking oil is not only essential for kitchen management but also for the environment.
By following the steps mentioned and choosing a suitable container, you can safely store used cooking oil and minimize its impact on the environment.
Responsible disposal of used cooking oil is equally important to ensure it doesn’t harm your plumbing or pollute the environment.
With these practices in place, you can make the most of your cooking oil while being environmentally conscious.