According to the U.S. E.P.A., used motor oil is any petroleum-based or synthetic oil that has been used for vehicle lubrication. As a result of normal use, motor oil becomes contaminated with various impurities such as dirt, water, chemicals or metals from your engine. Some governmental jurisdictions classify used motor oil as hazardous. It may contain additives (e.g. rust inhibitors), contaminants (e.g. heavy metals generated through engine wear or externally introduced materials such as PCBs from old transformer oils), potentially carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic compounds (from the fuel combustion process) or glycol leaked from the cooling system. Because of these "impurities," used motor oil should be handled with care and disposed of correctly to ensure the safety of the local community, environment and waterways.

• Once you finish draining the oil from your car's crankcase, pour the used motor oil into a clean, leak-proof container with a screw-top lid or use a drip pan that serves as both a collection and holding container. Check with your local collection center to determine what types of containers they can accommodate. Some collection centers may want you to leave behind the container for disposal if they are not set up to empty it immediately on site.
• Containers specifically designed to hold used motor oil can be purchased at your local automotive supply store.
• Certain everyday household containers can also be used for used motor oil collection, including milk and water jugs or the original motor oil bottles. Do not use a container that previously held household chemicals, such as cleaners, solvents, fuels (gasoline), paint or bleach.
• Make sure the chosen storage container has a secure lid so motor oil will not spill or leak.
• Keep the collection containers clean.
• Always clearly label the container "Used Motor Oil".
• Keep collected used motor oil out of reach of children and pets at all times.

Used oil filters are becoming more commonly accepted in local recycling programs. Alternatively, the facilities where you take your used motor oil may also recycle used oil filters. If they don't, ask them for a location that provides this service. Remember: regardless of how you recycle the used oil filter, you should drain the used oil out of the oil filter first.

After you have drained the oil from the engine block, use a filter wrench to loosen and remove the old oil filter. Place the flat or open end of the filter in the drain pan for at least 12 hours to allow as much of the used oil as possible to drain. Many used oil collection centers or municipalities provide specialized used oil recycling containers that accommodate filters. Your local auto parts store may stock them as well. Otherwise, store the filter in an everyday household container such as a milk or water jug or an old motor oil bottle and make sure the cap is securely fastened and taped to avoid spillage. Avoid containers that previously held household chemicals, such as cleaners, solvents, fuels (gasoline), paint or bleach.