Stop Using WD-40 as a Lubricant

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through a link, I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you. These commissions help keep this website up and running, and I thank you for your support. Read my full disclosure here.

There are lots of (likely sponsored) posts proclaiming WD-40 as the ‘essential’ miracle fix DIY product for around the home. But in truth, it’s often the wrong tool and using it will make things worse. Here’s why you shouldn’t reach for it indoors – and what to use instead.

What is WD-40?

WD-40 is now a range of products, but the original WD-40, in its blue and yellow can, is a familiar household product. The WD stands for ‘Water Displacement 40th formula’, and it is touted as a lubricant, rust preventive, penetrant and moisture displacer. It was originally made to protect bare metal against rust and corrosion, which it does very well. But then it was marketed as a versatile, general-purpose household lubricant to use around the home, including on doors, key locks, squeaky, stiff hinges, windows, bifold and sliding door tracks, and bicycles.

So what’s wrong with using WD-40 as a lubricant around my home?

WD-40 is not a true lubricant. Even though it may initially appear to work, it’s only temporary because it’s a solvent-based formula that evaporates and dries out. It washes away grease and leaves a black, thick, tar-like residue that collects dirt and gums up parts, shortening their lifespan. The squeaks and stiffness quickly return. For this reason, you won’t see Locksmiths use WD-40.

WD-40 can:

Strip paint and varnish
Stain wood
Degrade rubber, foam, and some plastics
It washes away proper grease
Leaves residue that collects dirt
Can shorten the lifespan of parts

What can WD-40 be used for?

WD-40 can still be used for some DIY tasks, such as:

Removing old silicone sealant in your bathroom and kitchen.
Removing sticky residue (stickers, tape, glue)
Its low viscosity makes it ideal for cleaning mechanisms such as door locks and bicycle chains because it gets into nooks and crannies to flush out debris. However, once cleaned, you must use an actual lubricant to make it suitable for use again.
Prevent rusting on bare metal surfaces.
Cleaning metal surfaces.
Loosening rusted bolts
Displacing moisture after flooding or leaks
Any task that requires water displacement.
Some recent TikTok videos have attempted to promote WD-40 as a clothing stain remover, but don’t risk it, as you are more likely to end up with a WD-40 stain, which is just as difficult to remove!

However, instead of buying WD-40, get yourself an actual lubricant, because they are more versatile and can do all of the above and much more.

How can I benefit from replacing WD-40 with a high-quality lubricant?

Instead of using WD-40, buy yourself an actual lubricant. A good lubricant can be used for the following to clean, lube and protect metal and composite parts, rust prevention and lubricant for bike accessories and tools

All-in-one lubrication and protection: It can be used to lubricate metal and composite parts whilst leaving a long-lasting protective coat. It’s great for door and window hinges and locks.
Deep cleaning without residue: It acts as an effective lube that removes mud, oil, grease, and dirt. It helps remove grime and residue without sticky build-up. It’s great for cleaning up your tools and bicycle chains whilst also lubricating them.
Rust and corrosion control: It cleans metal by helping to loosen surface rust, while shielding parts from water and dirt to support ongoing corrosion protection. Perfect for all bike accessories and metal parts.
Frees stuck parts and reduces squeaks: A penetrating lube spray helps loosen stuck bolts, joints, hinges, and fasteners while reducing squeaks.
Water displacement and moisture defence: Lubricant drives out moisture from metal and electrical components and flushes away trapped dirt. It performs as a waterproof spray for damp environments and everyday maintenance use.