Used cooking oil can have detrimental effects on the environment if not disposed of properly. According to Healthylifetricks, when poured down the kitchen sink, oil can clog pipes and seep into the groundwater, contaminating our water sources.
Scientists estimate that one liter of used oil can pollute nearly one million liters of clean water. Therefore, it is essential that we adopt better disposal habits.
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What are the alternative disposal methods?
– Collect the oil in a plastic bottle after each cooking session. Dispose of the bottle once it is full.
– If you have a small amount of oil, let it cool down, and then use paper towels to absorb and dispose of it.
– In cold weather, oil solidifies, making it easier to scoop out and throw away.
If you accidentally pour oil down the sink, you can use hot water, baking soda, and white vinegar to clear the pipes. First, pour hot water down the drain, followed by ½ cup of baking soda. Let it sit for a few minutes. Then, mix equal parts of white vinegar and hot water and pour it down the sink. After 5-10 minutes, flush the pipes with hot water again to remove any remaining residue.
To protect your pipes, avoid using corrosive chemical products as they can cause damage over time.