30 Secret Uses of WD-40 That All Women Should Know! And If You Think It's WD-40 just to unlock rusty bolts and silence hinges, then get ready to broaden your horizons as Google Maps in satellite mode. Here is a list of 30 tricks, which mechanics, fishermen, piano technicians and other anointed masters often keep to themselves. Some are so effective that it almost seems like the product should be behind glass with the inscription “break in an emergency”.

But before we dive into this exuberant array of ingenuity, let's take a look at how this miracle spray from the world of rocket engines ended up in our kitchens and why it has earned cult status among DIY enthusiasts.

A Brief History of WD-40: How It Got From Space to the Garage (and Then to Your Purse)

The year is 1953. Location: San Diego. Scene: The Rocket Chemical Company, a small company, is experimenting with protective coatings for rockets. After 39 failed attempts, engineer Norm Larsen finally finds the formula that displaces water, protects the metal and does not disintegrate at the first touch. WD-40 – Water Displacement, Formula 40 – is born.

The first task of the new anointing miracle? To anoint a rocket Atlas, to keep it from rusting during storage. But as with all good things, there was a buzz. Workers started smuggling WD-40 home—which is probably the most American way to make something a commercial hit.

In 1958, the product officially hit store shelves, and the rest is – as they say – history. Today, WD-40 is famous for more than 2000 uses, although in reality it still occasionally surprises even the most skilled masters. And now we will introduce you to 30 most unusual and secretthat will change your view of this miraculous liquid forever.

30 Secret Uses of WD-40 That Housewives Need to Know

We present below 30 unexpected ways to use WD-40, covering a wide range of areas – from home, garden, car, workshop to children's mischief. Get ready to start looking at WD-40 with new eyes!

1. Silencing squeaky hinges and doors: The most classic use – a few squirts of WD-40 will eliminate that annoying thing in no time “squeeeep” on doors, window hinges, garage doors and other moving joints. WD-40 lubricates moving metal parts and creates a protective layer, so the parts move smoothly and no longer make noise. Forget about a house that sounds like a scene from a horror movie - with WD-40 your doors will remain quiet as a ninja.
2. Loosening rusty and jammed screws: When you encounter a bolt or nut that won't budge even a millimeter, it's time for WD-40. This versatile spray Penetrates rust and dissolves corrosion, making it easier to loosen even the most stubborn, rusty bolts. Simply spray the jammed part, wait a few minutes for the WD-40 to work its magic, then try again - you'll be surprised at how smoothly it turns. Mechanics swear by this trick, as it saves them a lot of time and nerves.
3. Removing stickers and adhesive residue: Have you ever struggled with annoying sticker residue on glasses, bottles, furniture or your car? WD-40 comes to the rescue! It contains solvents that excellent at breaking down adhesives, so you can easily remove old stickers, remnants of scotch tape or adhesive tape without scratching the surface. Just spray the sticker, wait a few minutes and then wipe or peel it off - the glue softens and comes off almost by itself. This is the secret weapon of home craftsmen when renovating and cleaning, when you need to remove the price tag from a new glass or the remnants of protective film from windows.

   

4. Getting rid of chewing gum from inappropriate places: Chewing gum in your child's hair or on the sole of their shoe? Every parent's and babysitter's nightmare! But with WD-40, even this problem becomes solvable. WD-40 breaks down sticky polymers in chewing gum, which makes the gum easier to peel off the surface. If your child comes home with gum stuck in their hair, lightly spray WD-40 on the affected area (watch out for the eyes!) and comb gently – the gum will slide off the hair surprisingly easily. The same goes for rubber linings on shoes or carpets: spray, wait and wipe. Of course, wash the area afterwards with soap or shampoo to remove any remaining oil. This trick is one that seasoned parents and hairdressers know, and now you can too.

   

5. Removing children's artwork from walls and furniture: When little ones get artistic with crayons, pencils, or permanent markers on your walls, floors, or refrigerator, don't despair—WD-40 is your secret weapon for cleaning up such masterpieces. Wax paints and stubborn pigments dissolve when in contact with WD-40, as the spray penetrates wax and dyes. Spray a drawing on a wall or a marker stain on a table, wait a few minutes and wipe with a soft cloth - the traces will disappear. WD-40 can remove crayons from walls, markers from floors or even crayons from painted toys. After cleaning, be sure to wipe the surface with a mild cleaner to remove oily residue and prevent slipping. This trick has saved many a wall from having to be repainted!
6. Polishing artificial plant leaves: Artificial flowers and plants at home can become covered in dust and lose their shine over time. This is where WD-40 comes in – spray a few light coats on the leaves of your artificial plant and wipe with a soft cloth: the leaves will shine like new, and the dust and dirt will disappear. WD-40 also creates a slightly oily layer that will slow down the re-accumulation of dust. Your plastic monstera or silk orchid will look like the real thing, and the DIY enthusiast in you will nod happily at this unusual trick.
7. Preventing snow from sticking to shovels: Winter shoveling becomes much easier when the snow doesn't stick to your shovel. That's why experienced winter heroes spray their shovel with WD-40 first! Because WD-40 creates a slippery, water-repellent layer, wet snow will not stick to the shovel, but will simply slide off as you work. Spray the metal or plastic surface of your snow shovel evenly and wipe off the excess liquid. The next time you shovel snow, you will notice that the snow just slides off. This will help you shovel faster and less frustrated - a secret that maintenance workers and road workers have known in secret for years. One of the main secret uses of WD-40 in the middle of winter.
8. Solving stuck zippers: There's nothing worse than a zipper that won't budge and looks like it's going to rip your garment. WD-40 comes to the rescue here too – with its lubricating power. smooth the zipper teeth and dissolves any rust or grime. Apply a little WD-40 directly to the stuck zipper (preferably from the inside of the fabric), pull it up and down a little, and soon the zipper will slide like butter. This trick works on zippers on jackets, pants, bags, or sleeping bags. Just be careful not to overdo it, and wash the garment afterward to remove any remaining lubricant. Sewing tip: WD-40 is like a miracle elixir for rebellious zippers.
9. Smoother running of sliding doors and windows: If your sliding patio door or sliding window is sticking and rattling, give it some WD-40 love. Apply a thin layer of WD-40 to the door tracks and rollers or the sliding window mechanism – the oil film will lubricate the rails and wheels, removes dirt and prevents rust. Your sliding doors will then move smoothly and quietly, as if they were new. Here's a trick used by maintenance professionals: With a simple spray of WD-40, you can save your shower doors, wardrobes or glass patio doors from unnecessary strain (and yourself from a strenuous workout opening them).
10. Cleaning and protecting tools from rust: WD-40 is your tool's best friend. If you have pliers, a hammer, a saw, or another piece of tool that's a little rusty or full of grime, spray it with WD-40 and wipe it down - will remove rust, grease and dirt, while also leaving a thin protective layer of oil on the metal, protecting the tool from further corrosion. DIYers often give their metal tools a quick spray at the end of the day to keep them in tip-top condition. WD-40 will also dissolve stubborn resin residue on saw blades or dried paint on tools, leaving your equipment shining like new again. Nobody likes a rusty saw – and with WD-40 you won’t have to put up with it either.
11. Removing a stuck ring from your finger: If your ring is stuck on a swollen finger, don't panic - the pros have a simple trick. A dab of WD-40 will act as a lubricant and the ring will slip off your finger without pain, similar to soapy water, only more effective. Simply spray a little WD-40 around the ring and twist it around – you’ll feel it loosen almost immediately. Then carefully remove it. Of course, wash your hands thoroughly with soap afterwards. Believe it or not, WD-40 is known as the “ring solution” in hospitals and among emergency responders because it can save your finger from being cut by a ring. (By the way, the same trick works if your finger gets stuck in a tight space – WD-40 frees prisoners!)
12. Removing dried candle wax: Drips of hardened candle wax on a table or carpet are a real pain to clean up. But WD-40 can also do this: melt the wax and makes it easier to remove dried-on candle stains. If you spill a candle on a tablecloth, carpet, or wooden shelf, wait until the wax hardens, carefully scrape off the excess, then spray the residue with WD-40. Wait a few minutes for the solvent to penetrate the wax, then wipe or blot – the wax residue will disappear much easier than by rubbing it dry. Finally, clean the surface with a regular cleaner. This trick comes in handy after a romantic candlelight dinner or holiday decorating – the hosts will be amazed at how easy it is.
13. Cleaning ink and marker stains: Have you discovered a ballpoint pen or felt-tip pen stain on your sofa? WD-40 can solve this problem too. It contains solvents that dissolves oily and stubborn paints in ink, which can help lift the stain from the fabric. Apply a light coat of WD-40 to the stain on your carpet, sofa or leather jacket and let it sit for a few minutes. Then wipe with a clean cloth – the ink stain will transfer to the cloth and the fabric will be saved. For delicate fabrics, always test in a hidden corner first! WD-40 is particularly effective on fresh stains from felt-tip pens, crayons or pencils, as it breaks down the pigment that has not yet permanently bonded to the fibers. Once the stain has loosened, clean the area with a mild soap or detergent to remove any WD-40 residue. Pens will no longer be a constant threat to your sofa.
14. Polishing metal surfaces (brass, chrome, stainless steel): WD-40 is also great as instant metal polish. If you have tarnished brass candlesticks, tarnished chrome parts on your car, or fingerprints on your stainless steel refrigerator, simply spray a little WD-40 on a soft cloth and wipe the metal. The surface will shine as if you had used a special polish - without streaks or dust. In addition to the shine of WD-40 leaves a thin protective layer, which protects the metal from fingerprints, moisture, and rust. It's a shortcut that's loved by both auto mechanics (for shiny chrome bumpers) and housewives (for a shiny stainless steel range hood). Note: Wipe off any excess WD-40 after polishing to prevent the surface from becoming greasy. Now you know how to get your brass looking shiny again. of goldand the refrigerator is free of fingerprints.
15. Removing tar, resin and insects from a car: After a long drive, your car often has marks that are difficult to clean – black tar stains from the road, resin residue from a tree, or a love bug sitting on the bonnet. WD-40 is the ace up its sleeve here: with its solvents breaks down sticky substances such as asphalt, resin and insects, so they can be easily wiped off without rubbing the paint. Spray the stain, wait a minute or two, then gently wipe with a soft cloth - the tar or insect will wipe off without too much effort. WD-40 is gentle enough not to damage the car's paint, but effective enough to dissolve even stubborn dirt. This secret is often used by bodyshops and vintage car enthusiasts to keep their steel horses sparkling clean. After the treatment, wash the car with regular shampoo to remove oil residues, and your car will look like it came from a car dealership.
16. Preventing locks from freezing: The cold winter can surprise you with frozen locks – whether on cars, front doors or sheds. WD-40 can help prevent this problem. If spray a little WD-40 into the lock, will displace moisture and cover the mechanism with a protective layer, which prevents the water in the lock from freezing. It’s a good idea to do this before temperatures drop below freezing – your car door, trunk or patio door locks will thank you. You can do the same with outdoor padlocks. WD-40 stays in the mechanism long enough to repel moisture overnight. That way, you won’t be surprised by an icy door in the morning. This is a trick that auto mechanics and maintenance workers have up their sleeves every winter.
17. Lubrication of moving parts in a car: A creaking car door, a stuck seat belt buckle or a bonnet that squeaks when opened – WD-40 can solve these problems too. There are many hinges and mechanisms in a car that need to function smoothly: door hinges, boot lid, seat guides, handles and levers. When these parts start to creak or move with difficulty, apply WD-40 to them – friction will disappear, squeaking will stop, and parts will run smoothly again. Mechanics often use WD-40 for quick fixes to annoying noises: say, when a car door squeaks when opening, they spray it with WD-40 and the problem is solved. It also helps keep rubber seals flexible (e.g. on doors or trunks) so they don't crack. Remember: WD-40 is not a substitute for engine oil or bearing grease, but it is a real balm for small moving parts in the passenger compartment and body.
18. Repelling insects and pests: WD-40 is not only a cleaner and lubricant, but some people also use it as an improvised insect repellent. If you spray it on window sills, door frames and corners, the oil will create a barrier that spiders and insects don't like - it's harder for them to crawl over and the smell deters them. This can help reduce the number of spiders in your basement or ants near your doorstep. Some people even use WD-40 directly on wasp or hornet nests under your roof, as the oil will soak into the nest and destroy it (be very careful!). It is also said to spraying a cockroach with WD-40 It killed the bug right away – the oil clogs its breathing holes. Of course, WD-40 is not a classic insecticide, so use it sparingly – make sure there is ventilation in enclosed spaces so you don’t inhale the fumes. But as a quick emergency solution when you don’t have bug spray at home, WD-40 can temporarily do the job. Who would have thought that one product can do so much!
19. Protecting bird feeders from squirrels: Bird lovers know how annoying squirrels can be when they take over a bird feeder and eat all the seeds. One ingenious trick that gardeners keep hidden is using WD-40 on the steering rod or chainIf the birdhouse is attached to a metal pole, coat or spray the entire pole with WD-40 – the surface will become slippery, and the squirrels will no longer be able to climb it (they will simply slide down like on a slide). You can do the same with a chain hanging from a tree - oil it with WD-40 to make it too slippery for the squirrels' paws. The trick works great and saves the bird food from furry thieves. But be careful: make sure that the WD-40 does not get directly into the food or on the birds. Some warn that the oil can damage the birds' feathers or the squirrels' fur if it gets on them. So only spray the spray on the pole or chain, away from the feeder itself. Anyone who has problems with naughty squirrels, will find a true ally in this hack.
20. Fishermen's trick for better fish catching: Here's a use for WD-40 that mechanics may not be familiar with, but we occasionally hear about among fishermen - spraying bait with WD-40Some anglers swear that a dab of WD-40 on an artificial fishing lure or a piece of bread as bait helps attract big fish. The reason is that WD-40 covers up human scent and gives the lure an attractive scent (possibly fish oil, although WD-40 no contains fish oil, as is often mistakenly believed). The WD-40 company does officially advises against This practice is frowned upon due to its environmental impact, but as they say – it’s hard to stop fishermen from trying out their secret formulas. If you decide to try this trick, keep in mind that WD-40 contains solvents that are not friendly to aquatic organisms, so it’s better to use specialized fish attractants. In any case, the legend of WD-40 as the “secret ingredient” for big catches lives on in fishing circles – who knows, maybe that’s where your record trout is hidden (but you didn’t hear that from us)!
21. Maintenance of garden tools and machinery: Your garden shears, scythes, lawn mowers and other yard tools will live longer if you give them a WD-40 treatment every now and then. After each use clean the blades and moving parts with WD-40to remove tree sap, resin and moisture while protecting your tools from rust. For example, spray the blades of your pruning shears after pruning shrubs and wipe them down – this will keep them sharp and rust-free until next time. Also WD-40 keeps the mower wheels and axles lubricated, so that they do not get stuck due to grass and dirt. Another trick: if you have a petrol garden machine (lawn mower, cultivator), after washing the chassis, you can spray all metal parts with WD-40 to displace moisture - this will prevent rusting and make the next start easier. Gardeners and maintenance workers know that tools cared for with WD-40 will stay like new for longer and ready for the next season.
22. Preventing fogging of mirrors and windows: Are you tired of fogged-up bathroom mirrors or car windshields? WD-40 offers a quick solution. If Apply a very thin layer of WD-40 to clean, dry glass. and lightly polish it, a hydrophobic film will remain on the surface, which prevents condensation build-up. The bathroom mirror will no longer fog up during a hot shower – the moisture will slide down in drops. You can try the same on the inside of car windows to prevent fogging on humid days. Just make sure to apply a very minimal amount and wipe well so that the glass does not remain greasy. The effect is not eternal, but for a special event or during periods of high humidity it can be worth its weight in gold. The trick is so simple that it is surprising – but many a resourceful driver or maintenance worker has been using it for a long time. No more painting hearts on steamed windows! One of the main secret uses of WD-40, which is useful in absolutely every bathroom.

    

23. Reviving stuck keys on a piano: Pianists know that there is nothing worse than a key that no longer lifts properly after being pressed. The cause may be a little rust or dirt in the piano key mechanism. WD-40 can help here too, but be extremely careful: if slightly Spray WD-40 on the mechanism of the stuck key (usually from the back or bottom where the moving parts of the key are located), it will The lubricant loosened the rubbed part and the key will be free to play again. This is an old trick used by piano tuners and repairers on older instruments, where the wooden and metal parts of the mechanism wear out or collect moisture over time. Of course, you should use very little WD-40 and avoid contact with the strings or hammers. Once the key is working again, you can wipe off the excess oil. The result? The piano will play without sticking again, and you will save yourself the trouble of calling a repairman. (Warning: For expensive pianos, this is best done by a professional anyway!)
24. Displacing moisture from electrical devices: WD-40 literally means “displaces water”, which is not just a marketing slogan – it really can drive moisture out of hard-to-reach places. If your electrical connection or electronics (say, a car ignition wire, a lawnmower spark plug, or battery contacts) gets wet, WD-40 can help dry it out. Spray WD-40 on the wet electrical connection – the solvent will pull water from the surfaces and mix it with itself, and the oil will create a barrier against water re-ingress. This makes it easier to start a wet engine, for example, or dry out a plug that has been exposed to rain. This trick was first used in the restoration of equipment after hurricanes: WD-40 helped reanimate engines and machinery that had been exposed to water. Of course, it is not a magic cure for drowned smartphones (it is better not to spray it there, as it can damage the plastic), but it is great for larger electrical connections, cable clamps, distributors and spark plugs. Auto mechanics in humid places always have it on hand. Tip: after drying the contacts, you can wipe off the excess liquid so that there is no too greasy coating that would trap dust. WD-40 will be your first aid for electrical problems after a storm or laundry incident.
25. Solving dried-up paint brushes: You know that feeling when you're done painting and find a forgotten brush that's as hard as a rock? There's no need to throw it away - WD-40 can revive even dried-out brushes. The petroleum solvents in WD-40 break down dried paint (especially oil-based paints or varnishes) on the bristles. Trim the brush slightly to remove any excess hardened clumps, then dip it in a container of WD-40 or spray it thoroughly. Wait a few minutes (or longer if the paint is very old) and then knead the bristles with gloves - they will feel softer as the paint softens. Wipe the brush with a coarse cloth or paper and then wash in soapy water. Chances are, the brush will be soft enough to use again. This is especially true for enamel paints or glazes. With this trick, masters save quite a few brushes that others might throw away. Of course, WD-40 is not magic - if the brush has turned into a hard lump, it may not save it - but for moderately dried-out ones, it is surprisingly successful. The next time you find a forgotten brush from the back room, try this secret method. One of the main secret uses of WD-40.

    

26. Masking scratches and marks on the floor or countertop: Tiny scratches on floor coverings (linoleum, ceramic) or on a laminate countertop are annoying, but WD-40 has another ace up its sleeve. By spraying WD-40 on the scratch and polishing can scratch many things hide, as the oil fills the micro-gap and reduces the visibility of the damage. If you have a scuff mark or a black scuff mark on your kitchen tiles or vinyl floors, try this: spray a little WD-40 on a soft cloth and rub the scratch. Often the scratch or mark will be much less visible, and the surface will have an even shine. WD-40 acts as a kind of temporary wax, which moisturizes the scratched surface and restores its shine, optically smoothing out the difference. This trick is also useful for a burnt pot stain on the counter or black rubber marks on the parquet. Of course, it's not a permanent fix - deep scratches can't be filled with WD-40 - but for those tiny scratches that are only visible under certain lighting, it's a quick and easy solution. Home craftsmen sometimes use this just before visitors arrive to make their floors and surfaces look flawless.
27. Removing grease from a mechanic's hands: Anyone who has ever screwed up a car or bike knows the stubborn black grease on their hands that won't come off even with soap. Surprisingly, many mechanics know the trick with WD-40: spray a little WD-40 directly onto dirty, greasy hands, rub it like you would soap, and you'll see the grease start to break down. WD-40 works as a quick cleaner that dissolves oil, grime, and grease from your skin. Of course, that's not all - you'll need to use real soap and a thorough wash with water to remove both the grease and the WD-40 residue. But the difference is obvious: WD-40 breaks down that stubborn black film that would otherwise remain on your nails for a long time. Many mechanics have a can of WD-40 in their workshop for just this purpose, hidden next to their hand cream. Just be careful not to make it a habit for every wash (WD-40 isn't the friendliest on the skin with frequent use). But when you find yourself with a hand that looks like it belongs to a miner, this is a quick fix: WD-40, wipe, then soap and water. Your hands will be clean(ish) again, and you'll be ready for a well-deserved beer after work. One of the main secret uses of WD-40 in the workshop.
28. Keeping carved pumpkins longer: Fall decorations, like hand-carved pumpkins for Halloween, are beautiful—but unfortunately, pumpkins quickly start to mold and deteriorate. That's where WD-40 comes in with an unexpected role: pumpkin preservative! Once you've carved your masterpiece out of the pumpkin, lightly spray the entire surface with WD-40. WD-40 will repels insects and moisture, which cause rot, and slow down the process of decay of the pumpkin. The pumpkin will stay fresh longer, and its skin will be less wrinkled. Of course, be careful: WD-40 is flammable, so never Don't spray a carved pumpkin that you're going to put a candle or flame in—whether it's just for decoration with a battery-operated light or no light at all. This trick has become a hit with Halloween crafters; some say it makes their pumpkins last a few days longer and look better. While they won't last forever (WD-40 won't mummify them forever), you'll extend their lifespan enough to last through Halloween weekend. Who would have thought that WD-40 would also protect scary loud laughter!
29. Temporary impregnation of leather shoes and boots: When you're caught in the rain or snow, WD-40 can temporarily save your shoes from getting soaked. Spray a little WD-40 on leather or rubber shoes and spread it over the surface - it will be a spray created a water-repellent barrier, which will prevent water and snow from soaking into the material. The shoes will literally repel drops for a while, as WD-40 acts as an impregnating agent. In addition, WD-40 can also remove white salt stains, which occur on leather in winter – spray a little on a cloth and wipe the salt edges, and your boots will be black again. Of course, this is not a substitute for real impregnation or polish, but in an emergency or for a quick exit into the snow, it comes in handy. Many a skier or winter enthusiast has already used this trick on their hiking boots. Warning: WD-40 can dry out real leather a bit in the long run (because it contains solvents), so do not use it on your most expensive leather shoes regularly, but rather invest in a quality impregnation. For quick winter needs – when a blizzard is approaching, and you only have regular leather ankle boots – this can be your savior from soaked socks.

    

30. Mini flamethrower for special effects (don't try this at home!): Finally, the naughtiest A secret that circulates among some craftsmen – WD-40 is also a flammable spray that can create a fiery jet when in contact with fire. If you hold a lighter or match in front of the spray and press, The flame captures the dispersed aerosol and a fire is created “flame thrower” . This one Jackass-like The trick has been used by some to burn down hard-to-reach wasp nests or simply for fun around the campfire. Let us emphasize: We do not recommend this to anyone at home! WD-40 burns, and such a flame can cause a fire or serious injury. But since we're talking about "mysterious" uses that mechanics might mention with a wink - yes, WD-40 can, in extreme cases, serve as an improvised fuel for a fiery performance. A more practical and safe version: WD-40 is great for lighting damp wood – if the campfire doesn’t ignite, spray a little WD-40 on the logs and light them (from a distance), the flame will quickly engulf the wood. Anyway, leave this chapter to the professionals (or movie pyrotechnicians). We’ll stick with less explosive tricks above – but we have to admit that WD-40 proves once again that it is a truly versatile, if not slightly naughty, product. One of the main secret uses of WD-40.

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Final thought: Who would have thought that a single can of WD-40 would have so many uses * secret uses for WD-40 – from practical everyday solutions to downright bizarre tricks. It’s no wonder that home handymen and mechanics sometimes jealously hide it from us – it allows them to shine like magicians, pulling out the right strings for every problem. trump card up your sleeve. Now that you know these secrets, you too can use WD-40 as a multi-purpose tool: stop squeaks, overcome rust, clean stains, protect against the elements, and more. Of course, don't forget a healthy dose of caution and common sense - WD-40 is not a cure-all, but in many cases it comes in incredibly handy.The next time you're wondering if you can fix or clean something with WD-40, remember this list and say to yourself: "If it's not moving, but it should be – you know what to do!" 😄