When it comes to cooking, most of us use grease as an essential ingredient. Whether it’s sautéeing in oil or baking with butter, the role of grease is undeniable on your plates. But what about when all the food is gone and you have leftover fat? What should you do with that extra grease? Many people aren’t sure how to dispose – or even store – leftover oils and fats safely. In this blog post, we will look at some dos and don’ts for dealing with these precious residues from your kitchen creations. Read on for tips on what to do (and not do!) when handling used cooking grease.
Understand the risks associated with disposing of grease in sinks and drains
Grease is a common kitchen byproduct that unfortunately causes a lot of problems when disposed of incorrectly. The risks associated with pouring grease down the sink or drain cannot be underestimated. The hot grease may appear harmless in the moment, but in reality, it can solidify and clog pipes over time, leading to expensive plumbing repairs. It can also contribute to blockages in municipal water systems, leading to sewer backups and environmental harm. To avoid these headaches, it’s important to dispose of grease correctly. Whether it’s through using a grease trap or simply letting it cool and throwing it in the trash, taking the extra time to dispose of grease properly can save you a lot of trouble down the road.
Know how to safely store leftover grease for later use
If you’re someone who likes to cook, you know that leftover grease can come in handy for creating flavorful meals. But storing it can be a bit tricky. You want to make sure you’re doing it safely, so you don’t accidentally cause a fire or put yourself at risk of illness. One safe way to store it is to wait for it to cool down, then pour it into a container with a tight-fitting lid. Glass containers are preferable because they do not leak toxins. Keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it again. Just make sure to use it up within a month or so, so it doesn’t go rancid. With these simple tips, you can make the most of your leftover grease.
Clean up your mess – do not leave excess grease on stovetops or counters
We’ve all been there – cooking up a storm in the kitchen, excited to enjoy a delicious meal, and then we’re left with a greasy mess on the stovetop or counter. It’s tempting to leave it for later, but trust us, it’s worth taking the extra time to clean it up now. Not only will you avoid unpleasant smells and stains, but excess grease can attract insects and even pose a fire hazard. So, grab a sponge and some cleaning spray, and wipe down those surfaces until they shine. Your future self (and housemates!) will thank you.
Learn about different ways to repurpose and reuse leftover grease
When it comes to leftover grease, most people simply toss it in the trash. But what if we told you that there are actually a multitude of ways to repurpose and reuse it? For starters, you could mix grease that is unspoiled and uncontaminated (no chemicals like cleaners in it) with birdseed and create your very own bird feeder. This feed supplements for wild birds are commonly called suet cakes. Look them up online for a variety of recipe mixes that attract certain birds interest. Alternatively, if you’re feeling crafty, you could try your hand at making soap with the leftover grease. And for those who own leather items, adding a bit of grease can actually condition and soften the material. These are just a few examples of the many possibilities when it comes to repurposing and reusing leftover grease. So next time you find yourself with some extra grease on your hands, think twice before throwing it away!Grease is an important and often overlooked byproduct of cooking, and properly disposed of grease can make all the difference when it comes to keeping your home safe and functioning. With just a bit of understanding and knowledge about what to do with grease after cooking, everyone can do their part in protecting our environment and keeping responsible waste disposal top-of-mind.