WD-40 Isn’t Just for Squeaky Hinges: 7 Unexpected Cleaning Tricks

You likely have a can of WD-40 stashed somewhere in your home, even if you don’t use it often. Originally developed to prevent corrosion, WD-40 is a versatile product that’s handy to have around. What you might not realize is that, in addition to being a lubricant, it is also an effective cleaner for other things.

Its unique formula can remove stains, dissolve adhesives, and cut through soap scum and grease. To make the most of your can of WD-40, learn about the many ways it can be used to clean both the inside and outside of your home.

1. Sticky Residue

Removing stickers, such as the labels from the clear bins you just bought to organize your pantry, can be a tedious task, especially when they won’t budge. You can try tactics like using Goo Gone or heating it with a hair dryer before attempting to peel it off, but if you don’t have any Goo Gone on hand or don’t feel like dragging out the hair dryer, WD-40 can come to the rescue instead, as it will work to dissolve the gunk. WD-40 can also remove leftover duct tape adhesive and soften hardened gum.

When you’re ready to proceed, spray a small amount of WD-40 onto the sticky area and let it sit for a few minutes to allow it to penetrate. Afterward, wipe it away with a cloth or gently lift stubborn residue with a plastic scraper.

2. Stubborn Stains

If there’s one thing harder to remove than clingy stickers, it’s oil-based stains. While WD-40 should be used sparingly, especially on fabric, it can help break down grease, making cleanup easier after a spill. If you’ve accidentally dropped lipstick or butter on your blouse, start by placing an old towel underneath the stained area. Then, spray a small amount of WD-40 directly onto the discoloration. After a few minutes, blot the area and wash the item by hand.

As long as the wall paint isn’t flat or matte, WD-40 can make your child’s crayon masterpiece disappear. Allow WD-40 to sit on waxy crayon marks for a few minutes before wiping, and then use soapy water to remove them entirely.

3. Scuff Marks

Are your floors looking worse for wear lately? If you don’t have a melamine sponge on hand, WD-40 can be used as an alternative to remove scuff marks, such as those made by sneakers, from most materials. Apply it to any visible marks and then rub with a cloth until they disappear. Be sure to thoroughly clean the floors afterwards to eliminate the risk of slips or falls.

4. Soap Scum and Water Spots

If your home has hard water, you likely battle soap scum and water spots on a regular basis. Not only are they unsightly, but they can also be challenging to clean. Instead of vigorously scrubbing, let WD-40 do the heavy lifting for you. It can help break down mineral deposit buildup on surfaces, such as glass shower doors and bathroom mirrors, without scratching them.

To remove soap scum, spray WD-40 onto affected areas, let it sit for a few minutes, and then wipe with a soft sponge or cloth. If you spot soap scum on tile grout, follow the same procedure and use a narrow brush to scrub it away. Rinse all areas thoroughly with warm water, and then use a glass cleaner for streak-free doors. For mirrors, apply a small amount of WD-40 to a microfiber cloth first, and then use it to rub water spots in a circular motion. Follow up with glass cleaner to remove any residue.

5. Stainless Steel

If you have stainless steel appliances, you’re familiar with the smudges and fingerprints that are constantly left behind. WD-40 can not only wipe them away, but it also leaves behind a protective coating that prevents future marks. To try it for yourself, spray some onto a microfiber cloth and wipe visible grime, going in the direction of the stainless steel grain. Buff the area with a clean, dry cloth to finish. Note that while it won’t remove scratches from stainless steel, it can reduce their appearance.

6. Yard Tools

Depending on where you store them, garden tools can accumulate dirt and rust quickly. WD-40 can prevent rust stains on metal tools and clean them, keeping them in good condition for years to come. Spritz some onto their surfaces and then wipe with a cloth. If a tool is very rusty, let WD-40 sit on it for a few minutes before scrubbing the rust away with steel wool.

7. The Car

Keep a can of WD-40 in the garage to quickly remove sticky substances from car surfaces. Whether it’s leftover adhesive from old stickers, bug splatter on the windshield, or sap that dripped onto the hood from nearby trees, WD-40 loosens the gunk, making it easier to clean off. Leave it on dirty spots for just a minute before rubbing residue away with a soft cloth. Then, wash the area (or the whole car) so it shines like new.

When to Avoid Using WD-40

As helpful as WD-40 is around the house, it’s essential to know when and where to avoid using it. To protect your belongings, never apply WD-40 to the following materials or surfaces.

• Matte or flat painted surfaces: WD-40 can dull paint color or leave grease-like stains that attract dust.
• Untreated wood: The porous nature of raw or unfinished wood means WD-40 can soak into it and leave stains.
• Delicate fabrics: WD-40 should be applied to all fabrics sparingly (and only when trying to treat oil-based stains), but never attempt to use it on delicate materials such as silk or wool.
• Pet supplies: From bowls to toys, do not use WD-40 to clean anything your pet puts in or near their mouth. It’s not food-safe and can be toxic if ingested.
• Electronics: Since WD-40 is a flammable substance, it’s unwise to use it on electronics, even when they’re unplugged and powered off. It can also cause damage to screens.