AnswerLine • Iowa State University Extension and Outreach

Proper Disposal of Fats, Oils, and Grease

December 7, 2017 Marcia Steed

Cooking, frying, and roasting can all result in fat, oil, or grease (FOG) rendered out of the food to dispose of. Pouring oils or scraping remnants of fat into the kitchen sink may seem like the best and easiest way to dispose of it. However, drains plagued with oils and grease will clog over time, even if you only pour a few drops into the sink. The one rule every home should have and remember—Don’t dump fats, oils, or grease (FOG) down the drain! This includes the dishwasher, garbage disposal, and toilet.

FOG is the leading cause of sewer overflows and backups in home pipes and city sewer systems. Fortunately, there are safe and simple ways to dispose of cooking grease without causing an expensive plumbing disaster.

Here are six tips to keep FOG our of the home or city sewer system:

Tips in a box
1. Never pour grease down sink drains or into toilets or garbage disposals. 2. Pour grease into a covered, disposable container, and put into the trash. 3. Soak up remaining FOG with paper towels, and dispose in the trash. 4. Before washing greasy pans and dishes, scrape fatty food scraps into the trash--not the skink or garbage disposal. 5 Put baskets or strainers in sink drains to catch food scraps and other solids, and empty the drain basket or strainer into the trash. 6. Use the garbage disposal for fruits, vegetables, and other organic waste.

Vegetable oils can also be composted in a compost bin but only in small amounts. Too much oil will ‘clog’ the soil much like a drain, preventing it from its natural breathing and absorption capabilities. Animals should not be composted; the smell will attract wild animals. There are chemicals on the market that claim to dissolve grease. In most instances chemicals only move the problem down the line. Further, many of grease chemicals are also not allowed by city ordinances.

With a little effort and consciousness, we can avoid expensive plumbing mistakes by properly disposing of fats, oils, and grease.

Tips Source: Boston Water and Sewer Commission

Reviewed 3/2025, mg.

Marcia Steed

I graduated from Iowa State University with a degree in Home Economics Education. I enjoy spending time with my family and friends and traveling.

March 14, 2025

Cleaning, Consumer Management, Housing Grease disposal

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Retrofitting

June 12, 2017 Marcia Steed 1 Comment

I recently fractured my ankle on both sides. I was able to avoid surgery by not putting any weight on it for six weeks but getting around the house proved to be a bit challenging. I was not very good, nor did I feel very stable, using crutches so I opted for a transport chair some friends were kind enough to loan us. Luckily I am only dealing with this for a few weeks but it made me wonder about myself aging and the aging population in general and how to best accommodate being able to live independently in our own homes. As I did some research on it I found a good article from South Dakota State University Extension that addresses retrofitting our homes for lifelong independence. They have included a chart comparing costs of Nursing Homes and Assisted Living facilities versus retrofitting and staying in your own home. I think the information is timely and worth considering as I look down the road at not only staying in my own home but for other family members as well.

Marcia Steed

I graduated from Iowa State University with a degree in Home Economics Education. I enjoy spending time with my family and friends and traveling.

May 22, 2017

Housing, Safety around the home

1 Comment

Preparing your home for winter

October 27, 2016 Beth Marrs 2 Comments

Fall scene, forest of trees with fallen leaves — Image Source: Canva.com

The leaves on the trees are turning and in turn reminding us that winter is on its way! Is your home ready for winter? Doing some simple tasks now can reduce your utility bills and keep problems away.

Clean out your gutters. The leaves and debris can cause water to back up. In the fall that could cause water to overflow and instead of being diverted away from your house it could cause basement water problems. In the winter frozen water from thawing snow can cause ice dams that can cause moisture damage to your roof and interior ceiling. Running water through the gutter will also show if there are leaks that need to be fixed. Scheduling routine gutter cleaning helps ensure that your gutters remain clear, functioning efficiently, and free of any obstructions that could cause costly repairs
Have your furnace checked. Regular maintenance of both your air conditioning and furnace will keep them running well. There is nothing worse than waking up on a cold morning and not having the furnace working! Changing the furnace filter regularly will help with utility costs since air does not circulate well through dirty filters.
Over time, dust, debris, and allergens can accumulate in your air ducts, obstructing airflow and making your heating system work harder to maintain warmth. Scheduling regular air duct cleaning with a reliable company can improve air circulation, increase energy efficiency, and enhance indoor air quality. Similarly, cleaning your dryer vents is essential for safety and efficiency. A clogged vent not only reduces your dryer’s effectiveness but also increases the risk of fire. By incorporating air duct and dryer vent cleaning into your seasonal maintenance routine, you can ensure your HVAC system operates at its best, reduce energy costs, and keep your home safe and comfortable throughout the winter months.
Check the weather stripping on doors and windows. Sealing gaps around doors and windows will keep cold air out and warm air in.
If you have a wood burning fireplace be sure and have the chimney inspected. Regular cleaning can keep soot or creosol from depositing inside the chimney. Regular cleaning reduces the risk of a chimney fire. If you haven’t had your chimney inspected recently, it’s a good idea to hire professionals who specialize in this area. Regular inspections and repairs can provide peace of mind, ensuring your fireplace remains safe to use, year after year.
Change the batteries in your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. This should be done once a year. Test the detectors monthly to make sure they are working properly.
Since the days are shorter replace light bulbs with LED or ENERGY STAR bulbs which last longer and save money on your electric bills. When you are decorating for the holidays look for LED Christmas lights.
Make sure you drain your outdoor hoses and store them in the garage for the winter. Drain any irrigation system and rain barrels that you have been using this summer. Allowing water to freeze can cause damage that you will find in the spring.

Many of these items can be done without hiring a professional. By spending some time in the fall you will enjoy the energy saving and the peace of mind knowing you are ready for the snow to fly!

Reviewed and updated, 3/2025, mg.

Beth Marrs

I graduated from Iowa State University with a degree in Adult Home Economics Education. I love to cook and entertain and spend time with my family.

March 21, 2025

Consumer Management, Home Environment, Housing Household Equipment, Winter

2 Comments

Winterize Your Home

December 3, 2015 Beth Marrs 2 Comments

Growing up in northwest Iowa in the 1970’s and 80’s I experienced many long winters in a big drafty farmhouse. I remember fighting with my siblings over who got to stand on the heat grates to warm up and bundling up in the cold upstairs at bedtime. Homes today are much better insulated and energy efficient but there are still steps you can take with your residence to save energy costs and keep your family warm and safe this winter. Even though the cold has already hit, it’s never too late to take these steps to prepare for winter.

Here are some great tips from the folks at Ready.gov:

Insulate walls and attics
Caulk and weather-strip doors and windows.
Install storm windows or cover windows with plastic from the inside.
Insulate any water lines that run along outer walls. This will make water less likely to freeze.
Service snow-removal equipment.
Have chimney and flue inspected.
Install easy-to-read outdoor thermometer.
Repair roof leaks and cut away tree branches that could fall on your home or other structure during a storm.

For more in depth information on preparing your home, car, and more for the winter, visit the Ready.gov information pages.

Here are some additional resources for keeping your family safe and warm during the long Midwest winter:

Happy Winter!!!

contributed by Jill Jensen, former AnswerLine Specialist

Beth Marrs

I graduated from Iowa State University with a degree in Adult Home Economics Education. I love to cook and entertain and spend time with my family.

January 29, 2016

Home Environment, Housing Household Equipment, Winter

2 Comments

Prevent Box Elder Bugs

July 27, 2015 Liz Meimann

It seems really early in the year to be thinking about Box Elder Bugs but this is the time of year to work at preventing an infestation next fall. Use a tube of calking to seal up sites where the bugs can enter the house. Check cracks in the foundation or house siding and gaps around the windows or doors. It may seem like a big job, but with the arrival of nice weather you can break the job down into smaller parts. Perhaps do one side of the house every week this month.

Later in the year, you can spray massing box elder bugs with Sevin, Diazinon, or Orthene. You can also make a spray of soapy water using 5 tablespoons of liquid detergent per gallon of water. This is a very effective spray but does not have any residual effect.

Take a little time this summer to slow or eliminate the entry of Box Elder Bugs into your home.

Liz Meimann

I received both my undergraduate and graduate degrees in Food Science at Iowa State University. I love to quilt, sew, cook, and bake. I spent many years gardening, canning, and preserving food for my family when my children were at home.

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Cleaning Your House Siding

April 20, 2015 Beth Marrs 5 Comments

Mold is present everywhere including both indoors and outside. Most times molds that grow on the outside of your house don’t pose health problems but it can definitely be an eye sore! Mold can appear as discoloration or darkening on siding, decks and roofs.

Molds grow on surfaces usually where it is dark or shady, when temperatures are warm (although it can happen anywhere above freezing to nearly 100 degrees) and where there is a moisture source including humidity in the air. Proper ventilation around the house is important. If you have trees and plants that are growing close to the house it can provide an environment for mold to grow especially if it is on the north side of the house where there isn’t much sunlight. Trimming the plants and keeping the surfaces of your house clean will keep the outside of your house mold and mildew free.

When it comes to effectively removing mold and mildew from the exterior of your home, pressure washing is one of the most efficient solutions available. This method utilizes high-pressure water jets to dislodge mold spores, dirt, and debris from surfaces, restoring their original appearance.

It is a good idea to wash your siding every year. If you have a soft brush that attaches to the hose it will work well. If you need more than water and a brush you can use 1/3 cup mild household cleaner like TSP (trisodium phosphate) in a gallon of water. If you need something stronger you can increase the cleaner to 2/3 cup and add 1/3 cup laundry detergent. Always remember to rinse the siding after washing it.

If you have mold or mildew growing on the siding you can add 1 quart of bleach to the cleaning solution listed above. Anytime you are adding bleach to clean you need to make sure that the cleaner you are using doesn’t contain ammonia. Again rinse well after using this cleaner.

If there are plants located near where you are cleaning you need to protect them by covering them with plastic. Be sure and rinse off any bleach solution right away if it comes in contact with your plants.

By providing regular cleaning and removing mold when it starts to grow you can prolong the life of your siding and keep your house looking nice.

Beth Marrs

I graduated from Iowa State University with a degree in Adult Home Economics Education. I love to cook and entertain and spend time with my family.

May 14, 2025

Cleaning, Consumer Management, Housing

5 Comments

Cleaning Your Humidifier

February 16, 2015 Beth Marrs

In the winter our houses tend to dry out causing static electricity, dry nose, throat and skin problems. One way to add moisture to our homes is to use a humidifying device. These machines can be cool mist, steam or evaporative (a fan blows air through a moistened absorbent material like a belt or filter). These will add moisture back into the home if it is dry but care must be taken to avoid excessive moisture which can lead to bacterial growth if the machines are not maintained and cleaned regularly.

Here are some tips to keep in mind if you are using a humidifier in your home:

Use distilled or demineralized water in your machines to reduce hard water deposits. Tap water often contains more minerals which can be released in the mist. If the particles are fine enough they can be breathed in which could cause health problems depending on what the type and amount of minerals are.
Try to change the water in your humidifier daily. By emptying the tank and wiping it dry it will keep any film and scum from developing in your machine and will reduce the growth of microorganisms. If the tank is not removable use the manufacturer’s instruction to keep the machine clean.
If you are using a steam vaporizer keep it out of the reach of children. The steam can cause burns if anyone comes in direct contact with it.
Make sure that the humidity in your house doesn’t go beyond 50 percent. If so moisture can build up on windows and walls and can cause mold growth. A tool called a hygrometer can measure the humidity level in your house. They are usually found at your local hardware store.
Follow the manufacturer’s directions on what cleaning products to use. If bleach or other products are used, the tanks will need to be rinsed well before using so that those strong chemicals smells are not released into the air in your house.
At the end of the season make sure that all of the parts are cleaned and dry before putting it away. Also clean it thoroughly before bringing it out to use again the next winter.

Remember breathing dirty air can cause problems ranging from flu-like symptoms to infections. If you suffer from allergies or asthma the problem can be even worse. By keeping your humidifiers clean and using them correctly you can make your house comfortable and safe.

Beth Marrs

I graduated from Iowa State University with a degree in Adult Home Economics Education. I love to cook and entertain and spend time with my family.

January 15, 2016

Cleaning, Home Environment, Housing Household Equipment

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Preventing Falls at Home

January 15, 2015 Beth Marrs

This time of year when you hear of people falling most likely you are thinking it is from icy sidewalks. Each year though thousands of older Americans fall inside the home. According to the National Council on Aging one in three older Americans falls every year. Falls are the leading cause of both fatal and nonfatal injuries for people aged 65+. The elderly are not the only ones at risk for falling. All of us including small children can be injured.

There are several things that can be done to help prevent falls.

Establish an exercise routine. Regular exercise helps improve strength and balance.
Make sure that you have your vision checked yearly. If your vision is not clear it can cause an increase in falls.
Wear shoes both inside and outside. Slippers and socks can sometimes have slippery soles.
Get up slowly after you have been sitting or lying down.
Go over all medication that you are taking with your doctor or pharmacist. Some can make you dizzy or sleepy without you realizing it.
Make sure that the lighting in the room is adequate. If there are dark areas it may lead to tripping over something that has been left on the floor.
Make sure if there are throw rugs that they have a non-slip backing so they don’t move when they are stepped on.
Keep unnecessary items off of the floor. Magazines, books, blankets as well as other items should always be picked up.
Make sure items are stored where they can be easily reached. If you must use a step stool make sure that it is steady and that a chair is never used.
Be sure that there are grab bars in a bathroom when needed by the shower, tub or toilet. If a shower or tub is slippery use a non-slip bath mat.
Use a night light so that you can see where you are walking at night when it is dark. Many now automatically come on by themselves when it gets dark.

With a few simple changes in a home falls can be prevented for not only older relatives but young ones as well.

Beth Marrs

I graduated from Iowa State University with a degree in Adult Home Economics Education. I love to cook and entertain and spend time with my family.

January 15, 2016

Cleaning, Consumer Management, Home Environment, Housing Household Equipment

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Caulking to Save Energy

November 10, 2014 Beth Marrs 1 Comment

According to the Iowa Energy Center the average Iowa family spends more than half of its annual household energy bill on heating and cooling. You can greatly reduce this number by doing some caulking around your doors and windows. Filling the gaps and cracks around windows and doors can make a difference in utility bills as well as helping to keep unwanted pests out of your house.

To caulk, the first step is to clean away any of the old caulk from the area. Apply the new caulk to a dry surface. There are many different types of caulk available. Some are for indoor use only while others are for outdoors, some are paintable while others are not. Be sure to read the labels and choose the caulk that will adhere to the surface you are sealing. Most caulks are applied with a caulking gun for easy application. Simply cut about ½ inch off the end of the tip at a 45° angle and use a nail to puncture the seal. Lay a uniform bead that covers both sides for a good seal. You can use a dampened finger to smooth it out if needed. If the opening is more than ¼ inch you may need a backing material added before caulking or use a spray foam sealer instead. After you are finished if you have caulk remaining in the tube the nail can serve as a cap for the unused amount.

Some other places that you should check for air leaks include dryer vents, faucet pipes, electric outlets, chimneys, and the foundation sill. Taking care of these projects can extend the life of your home, lower your utility costs and make your home more comfortable in both the summer and winter!

If you are looking for more detailed information on caulking and winterizing throughout your house the Home Tightening, Insulation and Ventilation publication from the Iowa Energy Center will give you more detailed guidance.

Beth Marrs

I graduated from Iowa State University with a degree in Adult Home Economics Education. I love to cook and entertain and spend time with my family.

January 15, 2016

Housing Winter

1 Comment

A Mouse in the House?

October 27, 2014 Liz Meimann 3 Comments

Cooler weather makes us think about winter and all the things we have left to do before winter strikes. Mice are not unlike people in this aspect; as the weather cools they begin to look for a way to spend the winter inside your home.

The two most effective methods of ridding your home from mice are exclusion and trapping. You can exclude mice by plugging cracks and holes in the siding or foundation of your home that are ¼ of an inch or larger. Mice need a hole or crack only as large as their head to enter your home. Since mice are excellent climbers, pay attention to loose windows and holes that contain pipes or cables. Stuff steel wool into cracks and holes to prevent mice from entering. Remember that you will not only prevent mice from entering but you may also be lowering your heating bill by tightening up the outside of your home.

Trapping mice is the only way to eliminate the species of mice that spends all it’s time inside your home. Traps set in the center of a room will not be very effective. Set traps along walls or in the small spaces that mice use to travel inside the home. If you notice mice droppings, or have seen a mouse moving in a space then you will want to place a trap there. You have a choice between live traps and kill traps. The simple, cheap snap traps are an effective way to kill mice. If you want to be more humane, choose a live trap. You may want to set multiple traps to increase the odds of catching a mouse. Peanut butter, moist oatmeal, or chocolate are three of the foods that seem to attract mice.

No matter which style of trap you choose, remember to check them daily. If a snap trap is used, you may need to re-bait or empty the trap. Live traps should be checked daily; this ensures that you mice will be handled in a humane fashion. Remember that mice can travel quite a distance and you should release them a good, long distance from your home.

Category: Housing

Proper Disposal of Fats, Oils, and Grease

Marcia Steed

Retrofitting

Marcia Steed

Preparing your home for winter

Beth Marrs

Winterize Your Home

Beth Marrs

Prevent Box Elder Bugs

Liz Meimann

Cleaning Your House Siding

Beth Marrs

Cleaning Your Humidifier

Beth Marrs

Preventing Falls at Home

Beth Marrs

Caulking to Save Energy

Beth Marrs

A Mouse in the House?

Liz Meimann

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