Motor Oil Containers (Empty) Alternative ways to recycle Put in Garbage Drain all oil out of your motor oil jug and place the empty container in the garbage. Plastic motor oil jugs cannot be recycled. Do Not Reuse Empties Putting other chemicals or products in an empty motor oil bottle is dangerous. You can inadvertently create toxic byproducts when the chemicals mix with the motor oil residue. Alternative Ways to Recycle Take to Service Stations Just like with used motor oil and filters, you can take empty motor oil containers to an auto shop or service station. Find a shop or service station that’s certified. Did You Know? What Happens to Recycled Motor Oil Used motor oil can be cleaned and recycled, which helps keep it out of waterways. Recycled oil is then used to make heating oil, asphalt and other petroleum-based products. It is usually not recycled and resold as motor oil.