Storing Oil Drain Pans: Tips For Space-Efficient Organization

Storing an oil drain pan can be a messy affair. While a basic plastic oil pan will get the job done, there are a variety of oil drain pans available with different capacities and profiles. Some of the best oil drain pans include the FloTool Super Duty 16 Quart Drain Container, the Neiko Oil Drain Pan 20762A, and the Matrix Concepts M28 Oil Drain Container. These pans offer features such as large capacities, anti-splash lips, and tight seals to prevent leaks. When storing an oil drain pan, it is important to consider the available space and the frequency of use. Some users recommend hanging the pan on a wall, while others suggest storing it in a cabinet or on a shelf. Additionally, proper disposal of the collected oil is crucial to prevent environmental damage.

Characteristics of Oil Drain Pan Storage

Store in a bucket or jug

Storing used oil in a bucket or jug is a common practice for those who change their oil at home. Here are some tips for doing so:

• Use a bucket with a sealing lid to prevent spills and minimise odours. A 5-gallon (18.9-litre) bucket is a common size that many people use.
• After draining the oil, carefully pour it into the bucket. You can use a funnel to make this process neater.
• Wipe any spills or drips from the bucket with paper towels or old rags.
• Some people pour used oil back into the containers that the new oil came in. This can make it easier to transport and dispose of the oil, as you can take it to a recycling centre or auto parts store that accepts used oil.
• If you don't have a suitable bucket, you can use a large plastic jug or container with a secure lid.
• Always dispose of used oil properly. Many auto parts stores, such as AutoZone and O'Reilly Auto Parts, will accept used oil for recycling.
• Keep your oil drain pan and equipment clean. After each use, wipe them down with paper towels or rags to remove any excess oil. You can also use a degreaser or brake cleaner to clean your equipment.
• Some people store their oil drain pan and equipment in a plastic bag or tote to prevent oil from dripping onto other surfaces.
• If you have limited space, consider storing your oil drain pan in your car or wrapping it in a trash bag to keep it clean.

Use a drip tray

Using a drip tray is an effective way to capture oil leaks and spills from vehicles and machinery. They are designed with a wide, shallow base to safely collect oil and other fluids. Drip trays are available in a range of sizes, from small trays for storing liquid containers to larger trays that can fit trucks and lorries.

When using a drip tray, it is important to consider the size and type of tray that best suits your needs. For example, if you are working on a small vehicle, a compact drip tray with a capacity of 2 to 11.5 litres will be sufficient. These trays are designed to fit easily underneath the vehicle, preventing oil from dripping onto the floor.

For larger vehicles, such as trucks or machinery with limited space, opt for a drip tray with a higher capacity, ranging from 30 to 100 litres. These trays often feature pouring spouts, handles, or wheels, making it easier to handle and dispose of the collected oil.

Additionally, some drip trays are designed for specific purposes, such as the axle oil drain pan, which fits directly underneath a wheel's axle. Another example is the oil drum drain pan, which sits on top of a large drum and allows small items like filters to drain into the drum safely.

By using a drip tray, you can efficiently manage oil leaks and spills, keeping your workspace clean and safe. Remember to clean and store your drip tray properly after each use, and consider lining it with oil-absorbent pads for added convenience.

Hang on the wall

Hanging your oil drain pan on the wall is a great way to save space and keep your garage organised. Here are some tips on how to do it:

• Choose a suitable location: Select an area of your wall that is easily accessible and not too high up. You may want to hang it near your workbench or tool storage area for convenience.
• Use the right hardware: Make sure you have the correct type and size of screws, wall plugs, or hooks to securely hang your oil drain pan. The weight of the pan and the oil it can hold should be considered when choosing the hardware.
• Prepare the wall: If drilling is required, use a stud finder to locate the wall studs and mark the spots where you will drill. This ensures that the screws or wall plugs are securely anchored in the wall.
• Hang the oil drain pan: Follow the instructions provided with the hardware you have chosen. If using screws, make sure they are tight and secure. If using hooks, test their strength by gently pulling on them before hanging the oil drain pan.
• Consider a drip tray: To catch any oil drips or spills, you can place a drip tray or a piece of cardboard under the oil drain pan. This adds an extra layer of protection for your garage floor and makes clean-up easier.
• Keep it clean: Regularly wipe down your oil drain pan with a cloth or paper towel to remove any excess oil or grime. This will help to prevent drips and keep your garage looking tidy.

By following these steps, you can efficiently hang your oil drain pan on the wall, making the most of your garage space while keeping your equipment organised and accessible.

Store in a metal cabinet

If you're looking to store your oil drain pan in a metal cabinet, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, ensure that the cabinet is made of a durable material such as galvanised steel or aluminium, which will protect your equipment from rust and corrosion. You'll also want to make sure the cabinet is spacious enough to accommodate the oil drain pan, as well as any other oil-changing equipment you may have, such as funnels and oil collection buckets.

When storing your oil drain pan, it's important to keep it clean and dry. After each use, wipe the pan clean with a cloth or paper towel to remove any excess oil. You may also want to consider hanging the pan on a wall or storing it on a shelf within the cabinet to maximise space and minimise clutter. If your metal cabinet has doors, be sure to keep them closed when not in use to prevent dust and dirt from accumulating on your equipment.

In addition to the oil drain pan, you may want to store other oil-changing supplies in the metal cabinet. This could include items such as oil filters, collection buckets, funnels, and any other tools necessary for the oil-changing process. Keeping all of your equipment in one place will make the oil-changing process more efficient and help you stay organised.

Finally, when storing your oil drain pan and other equipment, it's crucial to prioritise safety. Oil can be a hazardous substance, so ensure that your metal cabinet is securely locked and out of reach of children or pets. If you're storing oil collection buckets, always use those with sealing lids to prevent spills and leaks. By taking these precautions, you can safely and effectively store your oil drain pan and other equipment in a metal cabinet.

Recycle

Recycling used oil is an important step in the process of changing your oil to avoid environmental damage. There are several ways to recycle used oil, from taking it to a local shop or auto parts store to disposing of it at a hazardous waste disposal site. Some local auto shops will take your used oil and even the container it came in, so you don't have to worry about disposal.

If you're looking for a more immediate solution, you can store your used oil in a separate container and take it to a hazardous waste disposal site in your area. These sites are often open a few days a month and may require you to show identification proving you live locally. Additionally, some sites will take your container and ask you to return later to pick it up.

To prepare your used oil for recycling, let most of the oil drip out of the drain pan, then clean it with a degreaser or wipe it down carefully with shop towels or old t-shirts. You can also use cardboard to absorb any residual oil before putting the pan back on the shelf.

When it comes to storing and transporting used oil, there are a variety of containers to choose from. You can use a basic plastic oil pan, a 5-gallon bucket with a sealing lid, or pour the oil back into the original 5-quart oil jugs. If you're looking for a more sophisticated solution, there are oil drain pans that double as storage containers, like the Hopkins Flow Tool, which holds 4 gallons of oil and can be transported easily.

Recycling used oil is crucial to minimise the impact of oil changes on the environment. By following the proper steps for recycling and choosing suitable storage and transportation containers, you can do your part in keeping our planet clean.

Frequently asked questions