If you’ve followed my blog for a while, you’ll know that for the most part, I prefer natural and homemade alternatives when I have the option. But there are rare occasions when I’ll stick to my guns on a particular product, and one of those products is WD-40. Why do I feel so strongly about a spray lubricant, you might ask? Because it’s just so darn useful!
What Is WD-40, And How Does It Work?
WD-40 actually stands for Water Displacement, 40th Formula. It was invented in 1953 by a chemist named Norm Larsen, who wanted to prevent corrosion by displacing moisture from surfaces prone to corroding. He made many attempts at his water displacement formula, and finally perfected it on his 40th try. Thus the name “WD-40” was born!
But despite its name, this product is capable of far more than just displacing water! According to the product website, it also lubricates parts, penetrates rust, protects surfaces, and removes dirt, grease, and grime, and it has saved my hide many times!
Uses for WD-40 – two views of a can of WD-40: front and back
How I Used WD-40 To Solve A Sticky Hair Situation
The first time I used WD-40 to save the day was way back when my daughter Britta was just a toddler. She was going through a phase where she insisted on having Silly Putty in her hand at all times, and she must have fallen asleep that way one night, because the next morning I found a huge wad of Silly Putty fully embedded in her hair.
I was devastated by the idea hacking off her long, blonde hair to get the putty out, so I’m glad that someone recommended I try WD-40 first. I soaked the putty-matted hair with WD-40, worked it in with my fingers, and was eventually able to slide every bit of Silly Putty out — no emergency haircut required!
Is WD-40 Safe On Skin?
Because of its water displacing properties, WD-40 can cause skin dryness and irritation. What’s most important is keeping it away from your eyes and mouth — seek medical attention if either of these things happen to you.
So what can you use WD-40 for? Well, the WD-40 website features a list of 2,000 uses for this surprisingly versatile product, but I’ve decided to be a little bit more brief here. 😉 Below, you’ll find 21 useful ways to use WD-40 around the house!
21 Uses For WD-40 Around The House
Uses for WD-40 spraying it in a toilet bowl
1. Toilet Cleaner
Spray WD-40 on tough limescale stains and mineral deposits in your toilet, and let it sit for a few minutes. Scrub with a toilet brush or a pumice stone, and the stains will dissolve easily!
Uses for WD-40 – with a box of crayons
2. Crayon Remover
Parents, raise your hand if you’ve ever faced a crayon-on-the-wall incident. (If your hand isn’t up, lucky you!) Waxy crayon markings can seem impossible to remove, but WD-40 makes it easy. Just spray a bit of WD-40 onto the crayon markings and wait a minute or two.
The lubricating action of the WD-40 will lift the wax from the paint, making it easy to wipe away with a cloth or a sponge.
Uses for WD-40 – spraying on gardening hand tools
3. Tool Treatment
If you own any household tools or gardening tools, WD-40 is a must! A spritz of WD-40 will lube up the hinges and springs in your snippers and pliers, and a thin layer will help keep rust from forming on saws, trowels, rakes, and other metal surfaces.
Related: 6 Unexpected Ways To Remove Rust With Things You Have At Home
Uses for WD-40 – spraying on label residue
4. Sticker Goo Eraser
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