WD-40 is a staple in households and workshops across the U.S., and for good reason. This multi-purpose lubricant and protectant can tackle a wide range of tasks, from loosening rusty bolts to removing stubborn stains. In this guide, we’ll explore the best practices for using WD-40, debunk a few common myths, and provide alternatives for specific applications.
What is WD-40?
WD-40 is a water-displacing spray that was originally developed in 1953 to prevent corrosion on nuclear missiles. The acronym WD-40 stands for “Water Displacement, 40th formula,” signifying that it took 40 attempts to develop the product. Today, WD-40 is well-known for its ability to lubricate, clean, and protect various surfaces.
WD-40 contains lubricating oils, petroleum distillates, and other proprietary ingredients that work together to penetrate, lubricate, and protect surfaces. When sprayed, WD-40 forms a thin, protective layer that repels water and prevents rust and corrosion.
Common Misconceptions
Despite its versatility, WD-40 is not a universal solution for all lubrication and protection needs. It can provide temporary relief for squeaky hinges or locks but is not intended for long-term use in these applications.
Over time, WD-40 can attract dust and become sticky, potentially worsening the problem. In addition, it is not designed to be a permanent protectant for metal surfaces or a primary lubricant for door locks. It should also be avoided for greasing plastic parts, as its solvents may damage certain plastics.
Specialized lubricants offer more lasting results for tasks like permanently silencing squeaky hinges. When dealing with plastic components, it’s better to use products specifically formulated for plastic to avoid potential damage.
How To Apply WD-40
Shake the can well before use to mix the ingredients properly. Hold it 6-8 inches away from the surface for optimal coverage, and apply in short bursts rather than a continuous stream to maintain better control. For a more precise application, use the included straw attachment to target specific areas.
Using WD-40 Around the Home
Here are some of the most common and effective uses of WD-40 around the house.
Loosen Rusted Parts
One of the primary uses of WD-40 is to loosen rusted or stuck parts. It effectively frees up rusted tools, blades, nuts, and bolts, loosens corroded aluminum components, and unsticks frozen locks and hinges.
Remove Stubborn Stains and Residue
WD-40 is surprisingly effective at removing a range of stains and residues. It can clean sticker and tape residue, eliminate scuff marks on tile floors, erase crayon marks from walls and surfaces, and remove stuck-on gum and tar.
Treat and Protect Metal Surfaces
WD-40 works on metal surfaces for cleaning, protection, and lubrication. Some examples include the following applications:
- Apply to snow-shovel blades for easier shoveling.
- Clean and protect fishing rods and reels from corrosion.
- Clean and protect metal garden furniture from rust.
- Coat metal snow-thrower chutes to prevent snow buildup.
- Lubricate chains and components for smoother rides.
- Protect garden tools like hoes and other digging tools used in sticky clay soil.
- Remove rust and grime from old tools.
Additional Uses for Everyday Problems
Though lesser-known, WD-40 has additional home applications:
- Cleaning bathroom fixtures: Restore shine and provide a water-repellent layer on metal fixtures.
- Leather protection: Restore moisture and shine to old leather furniture and accessories.
- Repelling insects: Spray windowsills, door frames, and screens to keep insects at bay.
- Shoe shine: Apply lightly to dull shoes and wipe off for a quick shine.
Automotive Uses for WD-40
WD-40 is also a great tool for a wide range of automotive tasks. It excels at cleaning and protecting battery terminals, preventing corrosion. When dealing with stuck or rusted bolts and screws, WD-40 lubricates them for easy loosening. It’s also useful for lubricating door hinges and trunk latches, ensuring smooth operation and reducing wear over time.
WD-40 helps prevent rust on undercarriage components, adding a protective layer that extends the life of your vehicle’s metal parts. It also removes stubborn tar and bug splatter from paint surfaces, keeping your car’s exterior clean and well-maintained.
Beyond these primary uses, WD-40 plays a role in regular vehicle maintenance. It helps protect alloy wheels by preventing brake dust and grime buildup, cleans and restores the flexibility of wiper blades for efficient wiping, and assists in staving off corrosion on tow hitches to ensure their durability.
However, while WD-40 is effective for many automotive applications, it is not a substitute for specialized lubricants or cleaners in all situations.
WD-40 Safety and Storage
To use WD-40 safely, always ensure proper ventilation to avoid inhaling fumes. Since the propellants are flammable, keep the product away from open flames. Prevent direct contact with skin and eyes, and if contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.
Store WD-40 out of the reach of children and pets to avoid accidental exposure. Keep the can upright in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Regularly inspect the storage area for leaks or potential fire hazards. Ensure the cap is securely closed after each use to prevent evaporation or contamination. Avoid storing WD-40 near acidic or alkaline substances that could damage the canister.
We also recommend checking for expired or damaged cans and replacing them as needed, rotating stock to use older products first to maintain the efficacy of your supply.
Alternatives to WD-40
While WD-40 is versatile, it may not be the best product for certain applications. Use these better alternatives for WD-40 for the following tasks:
- Brake lubricants: Opt for high-temperature brake lubricants to prevent brake squeal.
- Engine degreasers: Select engine degreasers to efficiently remove stubborn grease and grime, enhancing engine performance.
- Hinge maintenance: For lasting quiet hinges, apply a PTFE-enhanced silicone lubricant, which provides superior, long-term lubrication.
- Lock lubrication: Use a silicone-free, dry-film lubricant to avoid attracting dust and gumming up the mechanism. Clean the lock cylinder with electrical contact cleaner before application.
- Plastic-safe options: Choose a plastic-safe silicone lubricant or gel for components like polystyrenes (#6) and polycarbonates (#7) to prevent damage.
- Silicone sprays: Use silicone sprays for rubber components like weather stripping and belts.
Additonal WD-40 Products
WD-40 offers a range of specialized products designed for specific applications. These products are formulated to perform better for specific tasks than the original WD-40 formula.
- WD-40 Specialist Rust Release Penetrant Spray: Formulated to break through tough rust quickly.
- WD-40 Specialist Dry Lube: Ideal for reducing friction on surfaces like hinges and gears.
- WD-40 Specialist Electrical Contact Cleaner Spray: Designed to clean and protect electrical components.
- WD-40 Specialist Machine & Engine Degreaser Foaming Spray: Penetrates deep to remove grime from heavy machinery and engines.
- WD-40 Specialist Protective White Lithium Grease: Perfect for metal-to-metal applications requiring long-lasting lubrication.
- WD-40 Specialist Silicone Lubricant: Ideal for lubricating rubber and plastic parts.
- WD-40 Specialist Spray & Stay Gel: Offers a no-drip formula perfect for vertical applications.