What can leftover engine oil be used for?
2 Answers
Leftover engine oil can be saved for future use. It's important to note that once opened, the shelf life of engine oil shortens, typically to just one year. If it expires, it should no longer be used in cars. To store engine oil properly, ensure it is tightly sealed by covering the bottle opening with plastic wrap and then tightening the cap. Store it in a cool, dry place away from sunlight to prevent oxidation due to high temperatures. Additionally, expired engine oil still has many uses, such as lubrication. Even after expiration, it retains some lubricating properties. While it's not suitable for car engines, it can be applied to bicycle chains that aren't running smoothly or to mechanical parts of other machines that are rusted or stuck, providing effective lubrication. This way, you can repurpose waste and avoid unnecessary waste.
Every time I change my car oil, there's always some leftover, and I feel it's too wasteful to throw it away, so I've found some small uses for it. The leftover oil can serve as a lubricant for door hinges, making the doors at home and the garage door open and close more smoothly. Alternatively, you can apply it to bicycle chains to reduce friction noise. For storage, I pour the oil into clean, sealed small bottles, label them with the date, and keep them in a cool, dark place to use within six months. If there's a lot left, you can share it with neighbors or friends to save money and use it in an eco-friendly way together. However, it's important to never pour it down the drain or onto the grass, as it's harmful to the environment. I usually keep it near my toolbox for easy access. This kind of reuse is simple and practical, and it also helps extend the life of tools—I find it quite useful.
