WD-40 is a ubiquitous household staple, with most people having used it to silence squeaky hinges or loosen stubborn bolts. However, its versatility extends far beyond these common applications. In reality, the affordable spray has a multitude of uses that can help you avoid various everyday disasters, such as frozen car locks, carpet stains, and oily messes. From rusted tools to stuck zippers, WD-40’s lubricating properties make it an indispensable tool for any DIY enthusiast or homeowner.
It’s essential to keep a can on hand, ready to tackle the unexpected.
Remove ‘Paint Rub’ From Another Car
While it’s not uncommon to encounter cases where another vehicle has left paint rub marks on your car’s surface, you don’t necessarily need to visit a car service center to restore its original appearance. A simple DIY solution can be just as effective. By spraying WD-40 onto the affected area, allowing it to sit for a few seconds before wiping it clean with a rag or towel, you can successfully remove the paint rub and leave your car looking its best.
Clean Carpet Stains
Removing stubborn wine and oily stains from carpets can be a daunting task, often leaving homeowners feeling defeated and considering replacing the entire floor. However, there’s a clever solution that makes this process a whole lot easier: WD-40.
By simply spraying the stain with WD-40, waiting for a minute to allow it to penetrate the fibers, and then wiping away with a regular carpet cleaner or a warm soapy water-soaked sponge, you can banish those pesky stains from your carpet without breaking out in sweat.
Keep Wooden Tool Handles Splinter Free
While it’s inevitable that garden tools will eventually wear out, there are steps we can take to extend their lifespan by preventing splintering. A simple yet effective method is to apply a generous amount of WD-40 to the wooden handles. This lubricant absorbs deeply into the material, providing a protective barrier against moisture and corrosion, thereby allowing us to enjoy our garden tools for a longer period.
Prevent Snow Buildup on Windows
Eradicate snow accumulation on your windows for good by harnessing the power of genuine WD-40. To achieve this, simply spray the solution onto the exterior glass surface prior to the onset of snowfall. As you do so, observe how the snowflakes will effortlessly repel off the treated area.
Keep Wasps from Building Nests
When it comes to ensuring a safe and comfortable outdoor living space for your family, it’s essential to be proactive about eliminating hidden threats. One such threat is the presence of wasp nests, which can ruin your spring and summer plans if left unchecked. These pesky insects often make their homes under eaves, where they can thrive undetected. To prevent this from happening, consider using WD-40 in these areas to deter wasps from building their nests.
By taking this simple step, you’ll be able to enjoy the great outdoors with your loved ones without worrying about unwanted visitors ruining your fun.
Tone Down Polyurethane Shine
For those who prefer a more rustic appearance, toning down the glossy finish of the polyurethane layer is a straightforward process. To achieve a farmhouse-inspired look, start by dampening a cloth with WD-40 and gently wiping down the entire surface. This will effectively dull the sheen and leave your floor with a warm, earthy ambiance.
Keep Spiders Away
For individuals who experience arachnophobia, taking proactive measures can be a game-changer in maintaining a spider-free environment. One simple yet effective approach is to employ household items, such as WD-40, to repel spiders from areas they commonly inhabit, like corners and crevices. By spritzing these regions with WD-40, you can create an environment that’s less conducive to spider activity, effectively reducing the likelihood of encountering these eight-legged creatures.
Waterproof Shoes and Boots
WD-40’s proprietary technology allows it to effectively displace water from a variety of surfaces, making it an essential tool for anyone who needs to protect their gear from moisture. When it comes to footwear, WD-40 can be used to repel water from shoe materials such as leather, rubber, and fabric. Simply spray the top and sides of your shoes before venturing out into wet weather, ensuring that water doesn’t accumulate or penetrate the material.
Fix Squeaky Hinges
WD-40’s lubrication properties are widely recognized for their ability to alleviate sticky situations. One common household nuisance is squeaky doors, which can disrupt peaceful moments. To address this issue, simply spray WD-40 onto the hinges of the offending door. For optimal results, open and close the door a few times to allow the substance to spread evenly and penetrate the affected areas.
Keep Squirrels Away from Bird Feeders
A common problem many bird feeder owners face is the unwanted attention from squirrels. These bushy-tailed critters can quickly overwhelm a feeder’s seed supply if left unchecked. One simple yet effective solution is to apply a thin layer of WD-40 to the feeder’s surface before replenishing with seeds. This non-stick coating creates an unwelcoming environment for squirrels, allowing birds to feed peacefully.
Get Poop Off Your Shoe
For unforeseen situations where unwanted deposits leave their mark on your shoes, a simple yet effective solution is at hand. By applying WD-40 directly to the soiled area, followed by gentle scrubbing with an old toothbrush, you can effortlessly remove even the most stubborn dirt and debris. Finally, rinse the area with water to reveal a spotless finish.
Remove Chewing Gum
Don’t stress if sticky situations arise – a little creativity can go a long way! If chewing gum has found its way to your carpet or your child’s locks, simply spray WD-40 onto the affected area and use a comb to gently coax it out. Once you’ve removed the gum, be sure to thoroughly rinse any hair that was involved with water to prevent any lingering residue from causing future problems.
Get Rid of Sticky Fingers
In a surprising twist, DIY enthusiasts may find themselves in an unexpected predicament: stuck fingers due to super glue mishaps. Fear not, as there’s a quick solution to this sticky situation. To effortlessly remove the unwanted adhesive, simply spray the affected area with a specialized solvent and gently rub your fingers to loosen and remove the excess glue from your skin.
Break in a New Baseball Glove
To soften the stiff leather of a new baseball glove, consider using WD-40 as an alternative to traditional neat’s-foot oil. Simply spray a liberal amount of WD-40 onto the glove and allow it to penetrate the material. Next, fold the palm area of the glove sideways while inserting your hand into the pocket. Secure the folded section with a leather band or belt, effectively creating a makeshift mold that will help shape the glove to your desired form.
Leave the glove in this position overnight to allow the WD-40 to work its magic and create a comfortable pocket for your hand.
Remove a Paint Smudge
For minor paint smudges on your vehicle, a simple yet effective solution is to use WD-40. Start by applying a light mist of WD-40 directly onto the affected area. Allow the lubricant to sit for a brief moment, then gently wipe away the smudge using a soft, lint-free rag. This method can help remove minor imperfections without damaging the paint or leaving any residue behind.
Remove Tight Jewelry
For those who struggle to remove their rings during the warmer months, a simple trick can make all the difference. When your rings refuse to budge, try spritzing them with some WD-40 before attempting to take them off. The lubricating properties of the spray can help reduce friction and make it easier to slide the rings off your fingers.
Loosen a Zipper
Say goodbye to zipper woes with WD-40’s expertise! If your zipper is causing trouble, simply apply a small amount of WD-40 directly to the affected area. Next, work the product into the metal teeth by gently pulling the zipper up and down, ensuring an even coating on all surfaces.
Remove Floor Scuff Marks
When traditional cleaning solutions fail to tackle stubborn scuff marks, consider an unlikely hero: WD-40. Despite its reputation for lubricating machinery, this versatile product has a surprising ability to dissolve and remove scuff stains without damaging the underlying surface. Simply apply WD-40 to the affected area, let it penetrate the stain, and wipe clean with a cloth or paper towel – a simple yet effective solution that’s sure to leave your floors looking like new.
Get Rid of Sticky Residue
When faced with stubborn sticky labels, don’t worry – there’s an easy solution! To remove them without relying on specialized products, simply grab your trusty WD-40. The key is to let the solvent seep into the adhesive for about 60 seconds before wiping it away with a soft cloth. This clever hack will leave your surface residue-free and ready for its next use.
Clean Oil Spots
To eliminate an unsightly oil stain from any floor surface, follow this simple process. First, thoroughly spray a generous amount of WD-40 onto the affected area, allowing it to sit for a brief moment. Next, rinse the area with clean water, ensuring that the solution is fully absorbed by the floor. As the water dries, the oily residue should vanish, leaving your floors looking spotless.
Kill Weeds
For those struggling to remove stubborn thistles from their gardens, a tried-and-true solution lies in WD-40. Gardeners swear by its effectiveness, having successfully eliminated thistle woes with this trusty tool. To apply the WD-40, thoroughly spray all surfaces of the plant, including the stem’s base. Allow the solution to dry and die before gently pulling away the dead thistle material.
Clean the Toilet
When tackling stubborn limestone deposits, WD-40 proves to be an effective solution. Its unique properties allow it to thrive in areas where moisture accumulation is inevitable. To utilize its benefits, simply spray the surface, apply a gentle yet thorough scrubbing with a brush, and conclude by rinsing with water.
Keep Shovel or Chute Snow Free
To ensure your snow cleaning tools remain effective and efficient throughout the winter season, it’s crucial to keep them protected from snow accumulation. When utilizing a shovel, apply a thin layer of WD-40 to the blade to facilitate smooth snow removal. Similarly, if you’re using a snow thrower, take preventative measures by spraying the inside of the chute with WD-40. This will prevent snow buildup and ensure uninterrupted operation.
Remove Hair Dye Stains
When dealing with stubborn stains resulting from hair dye residue on towels, WD-40 proves to be an effective solution. To tackle these imperfections, start by spraying a small amount of WD-40 directly onto the stain. Gently work the substance into the fabric using your fingers or a soft cloth before washing the towel in hot water.
Quick Diverter Lube
In most cases, limestone tends to settle in the dynamic components of a plumbing system. To effectively free up these stubborn particles and allow for smooth flow, consider using a specialized nozzle to direct a controlled stream of lubricant directly onto the affected areas.
Keep Car Locks from Freezing
When anticipating an icy storm, take proactive measures to protect your car’s locks by applying a thin layer of WD-40. This will prevent water from seeping in and freezing them. If you’ve forgotten or find yourself dealing with frozen locks, simply spray the area with WD-40 again and wait for the ice to thaw before attempting to open or operate the locks.
Free Stuck LEGOs
When faced with a stubborn LEGO build, who would have thought that WD-40 could be the unsung hero? In this instance, applying a small amount of the lubricant to the stuck parts can help facilitate separation. However, it’s crucial to note that once greased, these parts will need to be thoroughly cleaned with fresh water to remove any residual residue.
Remove Crayon and Marker from Walls
If your little one has gotten creative on the wrong surface, fear not! The messy outcome can be easily tackled without repainting the entire wall. A simple solution starts by spraying WD-40 directly onto the crayon or marker lines. This will help loosen the pigmented residue. Next, grab a rag and gently wipe away the stains. The result should be a clean slate, ready for its intended use as a canvas rather than a work of art on the wall.
Remove Paint from Leather
When accidents happen, like when children unintentionally stain a leather sofa with paint, a simple solution is often all that’s needed to restore the surface. One effective method involves spraying a small amount of WD-40 onto the affected area, followed by gently wiping it off with a clean cloth or rag. This technique can help to break down and remove stubborn stains without damaging the underlying material.
Remove Grease
When grease residues leave stubborn stains on sinks and surfaces, traditional cleaning methods can be time-consuming and ineffective. A simple yet surprising solution lies in WD-40. By spraying it onto your hands, followed by a thorough rubbing motion, the grease residue will begin to break down. Then, simply wipe away any remaining residue with a paper towel before washing your hands. This innovative approach eliminates the need for extensive cleaning efforts, saving you time and hassle.
Lubricate the Gas Tank Lid
To maintain the longevity of your tank’s lid, consider applying WD-40 to its interior surfaces every 3-4 months. This simple yet effective measure will help prevent rust from forming and ensure the lid remains in good condition for years to come.
Remove Old Wax From Skis and Snowboards
When it comes to removing old stains of wax and dirt on your skis or snowboards, there’s a simple trick you can try. First, apply a generous amount of WD-40 to the affected surface. Next, use an acrylic scraper to gently scrape away the debris, taking care not to scratch the material. Once you’ve removed as much of the dirt and grime as possible, switch to a brass brush to target any remaining oxidized spots that may be lingering.
Keep Dead Bugs Off Car Grille
When venturing out with your vehicle, consider applying WD-40 to the grille and hood to facilitate an easy release of any critters that may have attached themselves during the outing. A gentle wiping motion should be sufficient to remove any remaining bugs without compromising the finish or causing any damage.
Renew Faded Plastic Furniture
Bring back the vibrancy of your patio furniture’s plastic surface by reviving its former glory. The solution lies in utilizing WD-40, a versatile product capable of rejuvenating faded plastics. Simply spray the entire area evenly, followed by wiping it down with a clean, dry cloth. This effective method ensures the restoration of your patio furniture without causing any harm or damage.
