The Truth About WD-40

For years, WD-40 has been the go-to solution for anyone looking to clean or lubricate a sticky situation. But what is WD-40, really? And what are its limitations? Let’s take a closer look at this ubiquitous product and find out once and for all what it can—and can’t—do.

WD-40 is a Lubricant, Not a Degreaser

Contrary to popular belief, WD-40 is not a degreaser. It’s actually a lubricant made from fish oil that’s been dissolved in a solvent. This means that it can break down grease and oil, but it also adds back some lubricant. That’s why WD-40 is great for cleaning hinges or other moving parts—the added lubricant keeps them moving smoothly. However, if you need something truly clean, WD-40 might not be the best choice.

WD-40 has Many Uses—but Not All of Them are Good

While WD-40 might not be the best degreaser around, it does have a lot of other uses. For example, you can use it to remove crayon markings from walls or scuff marks from floors. You can even use it to get rid of ants! However, there are some things you should never use WD-40 on, such as your car’s paint job or leather upholstery. The reason? WD-40 is petroleum-based, which means it can actually damage these surfaces over time. 

So, is WD-40 the miracle product it’s made out to be? That depends on what you need it for. If you’re looking for a degreaser or cleaner, you’re better off using something else. But if you need a lubricant or Protectorant®, then WD-40 is your best bet. Just be sure to use it sparingly and only on surfaces that won’t be harmed by petroleum products.