How to Dispose of Linseed Oil

Published: Jan 13, 2011
Updated: Feb 5, 2019
1 minute read

Linseed oil is made from the pressings of the dried, ripe seeds of the flax plant that are then exposed to a solvent extraction process. In its untreated form, it's used as a nutritional supplement that is said to ease constipation and lower cholesterol. You can dispose of it by any responsible means in this form. Boiled linseed oil is a woodwork finish and an art material and can be dangerous if disposed of incorrectly.

Excess Oil

Put any excess boiled linseed oil that you want to dispose of to one side. Do not pour it down a sink or drain. Linseed oil cures hard and may block drains as a consequence. Do not cover the oil and make sure it is in a well-ventilated area where it will dry quickly.

Allow the linseed oil to cure for 24 hours or until it has hardened.

Throw the cured oil away with your general trash.

Soaked Rags

Place any boiled linseed soaked rags in the metal container. Linseed oil dries through a process of oxidation that produces heat. This could cause the rags to spontaneously ignite.

Seal the metal container until you're ready to dispose of the rags.

Incinerate the rags.

Michael Roennevig

Michael Roennevig has been a journalist since 2003. He has written on politics, the arts, travel and society for publications such as "The Big Issue" and "Which?" Roennevig holds a Bachelor of Arts in journalism from the Surrey Institute…

Sponsored
Our Pastimes Logo

A destination for the avid collector and weekend hobbyist alike, Our Pastimes features articles and tips about your favorite cards and games, hobbies and more.

Property of TechnologyAdvice. © 2026 TechnologyAdvice. All Rights Reserved

Advertiser Disclosure: Some of the products that appear on this site are from companies from which TechnologyAdvice receives compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site including, for example, the order in which they appear. TechnologyAdvice does not include all companies or all types of products available in the marketplace.