It’s a trustworthy lubricant for squeaky hinges or rusted bolts, but WD-40 is so much more than that. This humble household product has a surprising range of uses that extend far beyond the toolbox. Its versatility might just make it the most underrated product in your home. Here are 18 challenges you can tackle with WD-40.
Revive Stainless Steel
If you are seeing rust spots in that once-shiny kitchen or bathroom of yours, then it could be time to reach for your new favorite can. First for Women Magazine says, “It’s perfect for polishing your stainless-steel appliances to give them that extra shine.” Spray a small amount onto a clean cloth and wipe the surface in the direction of the grain.
Loosen Zippers
Before you resort to drastic measures, try a little WD-40 on a stuck zipper. Spray a small amount directly onto the stuck area and let it penetrate for a minute, then gently wiggle the zipper back and forth. The WD-40 should help loosen it up and get it moving again. Be careful to avoid the material or fabric part, as it could stain it.
Clean Piano Keys
To keep piano keys looking their best, you can lightly spray a soft cloth with WD-40 and wipe the keys to remove fingerprints, dust, and grime. Be sure to use a light touch and avoid spraying directly on the keys. It will lift off tough residue and superficial marks to leave those keys gleaming.
Repel Pests
You can spray window or door frames where you want to prevent pests or insects from passing through. Southern Living says that “WD-40 doesn’t share what exactly is in their formula, but it does have mineral oils which are known to repel insects.” Just be mindful of where you are spraying, as it is harmful to animals, bees, and other useful insects too, which you might not want to harm.
Remove Stickers
If you are left with sticky residue from stickers or labels, you can use WD-40 to help remove it. Spray it onto the sticky area, let it soak in for a few minutes to soften the adhesive, and then use a scraper or your fingernail to gently peel away the residue. After wiping away the WD-40, your surface should now be spotless.
Prevent Snow Buildup
Coating your shovel with WD-40 before a snowstorm can prevent snow from accumulating on the surface. The lubricant creates a barrier that makes it easier for the snow to slide off, meaning that you are not left with a block of ice when you try to shovel the driveway when the cold weather hits hard.
Remove Crayon
If your little Picasso left their mark on your walls, then just spray WD-40 on the crayon marks, let it sit for a few minutes to penetrate the wax, and then wipe away with a clean cloth. The lubricant helps break down the crayon and separate it, making it easier to remove without damaging your walls.
Surfboard Wax
Surfers might be reluctant to use it because of the fiberglass finishes on surfboards, but WD-40 is not a solvent; it is a water displacement spray. WD-40 instructions advise to “simply spray onto a rag, wipe down the surfboard, and wash residue away with soap and water to restore it like new.”
Shine Silverware
Want to give Grandma’s silverware a little facelift or make your silverware look its best for Sunday dinner? Grab a can of WD-40 to help you restore tarnished silverware to its former glory. Apply a small amount of the spray to a soft cloth and polish the silverware until it gleams.
Clean Toilet Bowls
Those stubborn toilet bowl limescale rings can finally be eliminated with WD-40. Spray the affected area, allow it to sit for a few minutes, then scrub with a toilet brush to remove the stain. It softens the lime deposits, allowing them to be later brushed away with much more ease than hours of elbow grease!
Remove Tea & Coffee Stains
If you are fretting over that stubborn tea or coffee stain on your precious furniture, then worry no more! With a spray of WD-40 and leaving it to work its magic, your counter or tabletop should bounce back to be blemish-free. Just take care when using it on fabrics to make sure you don’t cause a bigger stain.
Prevent Splinters
Reader’s Digest suggests using it to “keep wooden handles on garden tools splinter-free.” Wooden tool handles can become rough over time, leading to splinters. Applying a light coat of WD-40 to the handles can help prevent splinters by moisturizing the wood and smoothing out rough surfaces.
Protect Pipes
Pipes exposed to the elements can freeze during the winter, leading to costly repairs if they burst. To prevent this, prepare in the fall before temperatures drop by applying a protective coating of WD-40 to vulnerable spigots and pipes. This simple step helps repel moisture, reducing the risk of ice formation and subsequent damage.
Protect Leather Shoes
If you like to keep those shoes shining without too much hassle, then this could be the hack for you. A light application of WD-40 can help protect leather shoes from water damage and salt stains. Apply a thin coat to clean shoes, then buff to a shine. Re-apply when necessary or at the beginning of every rainy season.
Deter Pigeons
Due to its strong odor and slippery texture, it is an effective bird repellent. Spraying it on areas where pigeons frequently gather, such as balcony railings or ledges, can deter them from landing or roosting due to the unpleasant scent and unstable surface.
Anti-Fog Mirrors
The water-displacing properties of WD-40 also make it useful for preventing fog on mirrors. Spray a light coat on a clean mirror and wipe it off with a cloth. This creates a thin protective layer that repels moisture, keeping your mirror fog-free for longer. It can also be handy for glass like car windows or front doors.
Remove Duct Tape
Its lubricating properties make it a surprisingly effective tool for removing duct tape and its sticky residue. Simply spray WD-40 onto the tape, let it soak for a few minutes to penetrate the adhesive, and then gently scrape away. For stubborn residue, apply WD-40 to a cloth and rub the area until clean.
Remove Chewing Gum
This miracle spray’s solvent properties can also be utilized to remove gum from surfaces. Spray the area and allow it to sit for a few minutes to break down the gum’s stickiness. Then gently remove the gum. Just take care that you do not make contact with the skin or inhale it, as it can be toxic.
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