Unusual uses of WD-40. But already tried!

A three-person team at Rocket Chemical’s San Diego lab was working on anti-corrosion solvents and degreasers for the aerospace industry, but the formula still wasn’t working properly. It was only the 40th formula in a row that produced an effective preparation, which is why the name WD-40 refers to the number of this successful trial. The letters WD in the name are not accidental either – it is an abbreviation of “Water Displacement”, which loosely translates to “displacement of water”.

Fortunately, Norm Larsen, founder and president of Rocket Chemical Company, did not leave the preparation to the space industry, but started testing the sale of the agent in aerosol containers. He assumed that WD-40 would work not only in industry, but also in home workshops and garages. He wasn’t wrong.

What is WD-40 most useful for?

The preparation, popular not only in Poland, has a simple action: it quickly penetrates into cracks, makes it easier to unscrew stuck screws, removes dirt, displaces moisture and creates a thin layer protecting against corrosion. It instantly isolates water and creates a protective barrier, which allows it to dry electrical installations and prevent short circuits.

Additionally, it effectively dissolves stubborn dirt, grease, grease, sticker glue, tar and even chewing gum. Due to the fact that it leaves a thin, microscopic layer, it also eliminates squeaks and improves the smooth operation of hinges and locks – but only in the short term.

Note – contrary to appearances, WD-40 is not a typical technical lubricant (e.g. for bicycle chains or bearings). Its lubricating properties are short-lived, and due to its action it can wash out thick factory lubricants and attract dust. However, it works in many other, seemingly strange fields.

Unusual uses of WD-40

It turns out that WD-40 is useful for cleaning grout. After spraying, just wash them with soap and water. It is also great at removing stains from stainless steel scourers. With this agent you can soften leather, e.g. of shoes, handbags, maintain leather furniture or car dashboards.

WD-40 removes road tar and dirt from cars, as well as insect traces on the hood. It also protects silver against discoloration and cleans chains and other jewelry. It also cleans instrument strings.

It is irreplaceable in cleaning glass shower doors from water stains! Removes dirt and dust from the grill and tomato stains from clothes. It protects the bathroom mirror against fogging and makes it easier to wipe crayon marks from walls, furniture, windows and screens. It also effectively removes scale and deposits in toilet bowls.

Supposedly, spraying some WD-40 on live bait makes it easier for anglerszom fishing. Pigeons don’t like the smell of WD-40, so some people spray it on the balcony. There are also those who spray the preparation over cows, which help them avoid being bitten by annoying insects.