Don’t Put it Down Your Drain: Motor oil
Possibly the biggest “no-no” for pouring anything down drains is used motor oil. It’s actually illegal in most municipalities, because of how much environmental damage it does and how easily it can contaminate an area’s soil and water table.
If you change your own oil in your car, NEVER pour used motor oil down a drain in your house or garage, into a sewer or storm drain in the street or a manhole on a sidewalk, alley, or street. Also never pour motor oil directly on the ground or street. The basic rule for pouring motor oil is that it can’t be poured into anything at all.
There are many places where you can bring in your used motor oil to be recycled properly. Check with your city’s programs, or find a place on this website: www.earth911.com. There is also more information on the City of Chicago’s website.
And most auto parts and care stores offer motor oil recycling, even if you don’t get an oil change at their facility. Call a store near you and ask if you can drop off your used motor oil there.
