Let the Tiki Torches Guide light your way | How to Dispose of Tiki Torch Fuel and Oil

I’m about to reveal a big secret. Hold onto your hat. Tiki torch fuel is extremely flammable. I know. You’re shocked, but it’s true. I’m going to let you in on another secret. Simply pouring your tiki torch oil down the nearest storm drain to dispose of it isn’t healthy for the environment.

Ok, now that we’ve dispensed the world’s most obvious wisdom, let’s get serious. Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) includes many solvents, cleaners and flammables which your city or county doesn’t want seeping into its ground water and doesn’t want to inadvertently ignite as the hot muffler of a bulldozer passes over the ruptured container in which it was stored before being tossed in a heap at the city dump. If it is flammable, corrosive, reactive or toxic and you use it around the home, it probably qualifies as HHW. You might note that the oil from your tiki torches falls into at least one of those categories.

This, of course, begs the question of how to safely dispose of tiki torch oil. Tiki torch oil, often a kerosene based product, is generally accepted at any recycling and disposal center that accepts used motor-oil, kerosene and diesel fuel. Your local landfill likely has such a facility but be sure to check for hours of operation before heading out. Some facilities only accept drop-offs a few times a month. Your county website probably has information relating to safe disposal of HHWs. Look for a page devoted to waste management, disposal or recycling.

Another source may be your local gas station or mechanic. Any place where oil is changed is subject to very strict disposal regulations. It isn’t a given they’ll be willing to accept your oil, though, so best to call ahead and ask.

While we’re on the subject, you will have to drive the oil to your chosen disposal center and that brings up a concern of its own. Ensure that the container in which you are transporting your tiki torch fuel is tightly closed and secured against tipping or spilling. If you smell the oil as you’re driving, roll down your windows and, for the love of Pete, DON’T SMOKE! Finally, should your container tip over and spill (I did warn you to secure it) then you should visit our post with tips on cleaning up tiki torch oil spills.

For all the joy and beauty of tiki torches on a warm summer evening, remember that your fun comes with a tiny inconvenience. You are responsible for the world around you. Check your local disposal options and, please never EVER just dump your oil on the ground. Mother Nature thanks you.