You Should Never Pour Hot Oil Down Your Sink Drain, and Here’s Why

It’s definitely not recommended to pour oil down the kitchen sink. While your mother-in-law might think it’s okay, doing so can lead to significant plumbing issues and environmental problems. Here’s why it’s important to avoid this practice:

Reasons Not to Pour Oil Down the Kitchen Sink

1. Clogged Pipes: Cooking oil can stick to the insides of pipes, leading to blockages over time. This can result in slow drainage or complete clogs that require costly repairs.
2. Fatbergs: In sewer systems, oil can combine with other waste, forming “fatbergs”—massive clumps of fats, oils, grease, and non-biodegradable materials. These can severely damage municipal sewer systems.
3. Environmental Impact: Blocked sewage systems can overflow, leaking contaminants into local waterways, harming aquatic life, and polluting drinking water supplies.
4. Wildlife Harm: When oil enters natural water bodies, it can coat the fur or feathers of animals, impacting their insulation and buoyancy, which can be fatal for wildlife.
5. Costly Repairs: The expense of fixing clogged pipes and damaged sewer systems can add up quickly. Proper disposal can help you avoid these costs.

Proper Methods for Disposing of Cooking Oil