WD-40 is one of those household products that almost everyone has, but few people realize just how many uses it actually has. While most people grab it to stop a squeaky door, this powerful spray can do so much more. From removing sticky messes to preventing rust, it’s a must-have for both indoor and outdoor tasks.
Whether you’re fixing up tools, cleaning up scuffs, or making winter chores easier, WD-40 can save you time and effort. Let’s dive into some of the best ways to use WD-40 around the house and outdoors!
1. Stop Squeaks and Silence Noisy Hinges
A squeaky door hinge can be one of the most annoying sounds in a home. The high-pitched creak every time a door moves can get on anyone’s nerves. Instead of putting up with the noise, a simple spray of WD-40 can fix it instantly.
The lubricant works by reducing friction between the metal parts of the hinge, allowing them to move smoothly without making a sound. Just spray a little directly onto the hinge, then swing the door back and forth a few times to let the WD-40 work its way in. You can also use it on creaky cabinet doors, desk chairs, and even outdoor gates that get stiff over time.
2. Remove Sticky Residue and Labels
Price tags, tape residue, and sticker leftovers can be a nightmare to clean. Scraping at them with your fingernail or soaking them in soapy water often doesn’t work. That’s where WD-40 comes in—it breaks down sticky messes quickly and easily.
To remove a stubborn label, spray a small amount of WD-40 directly onto the sticky area. Let it sit for about a minute, then wipe it away with a cloth or paper towel. It works on glass, plastic, metal, and even wooden surfaces without leaving behind a greasy mess. This trick is perfect for getting rid of old bumper stickers, price tags on gifts, or sticky marks from tape and glue.
3. Keep Garden Tools Rust-Free
Gardening tools are constantly exposed to moisture and dirt, which makes them prone to rust. A rusty shovel or rake isn’t just unattractive—it can also become less effective over time. WD-40 helps protect metal tools by creating a barrier that keeps moisture from settling on the surface.
To prevent rust, spray a thin coat of WD-40 on your gardening tools before storing them. Wipe off any excess with a cloth, and your tools will be ready to use whenever you need them. This method also works for outdoor furniture, metal railings, and even barbecue grills, helping them last longer.
4. Make Snow Shoveling Easier
Snow shoveling is hard enough without having to deal with snow sticking to the shovel. If you’ve ever had to stop every few minutes to shake off built-up snow, WD-40 can help.
Before you start shoveling, spray a light coat of WD-40 on the blade of your snow shovel. This creates a slick surface that prevents snow from sticking, allowing you to clear your driveway or sidewalk more efficiently. You can also use this trick on snowblowers to keep the chute from getting clogged.
5. Clean Scuff Marks Off Floors
Scuff marks on floors can come from shoes, furniture, or even children’s toys. Some marks are easy to wipe away, but others seem impossible to remove. Instead of scrubbing for hours, WD-40 can help lift scuff marks with minimal effort.
Spray a small amount onto a cloth or paper towel, then rub the scuff mark gently. The WD-40 will break down the residue, making it easy to wipe away. This works on tile, laminate, hardwood, and even vinyl floors. Just be sure to clean the area afterward with soap and water to prevent any slipperiness.
Read More: 15 Home Improvement Hacks You Wish You Knew Sooner
6. Protect Outdoor Locks from Freezing
During cold winter months, outdoor locks on gates, sheds, and mailboxes can freeze, making them difficult or impossible to open. WD-40 is a great way to prevent this problem before it starts.
Since WD-40 repels moisture, it helps keep water from seeping into the keyhole and freezing inside. Simply spray a small amount into the lock before the temperature drops, and it will help keep the mechanism working smoothly all winter long. This is especially useful for car locks if you don’t park in a garage.
7. Remove Crayon and Marker from Walls
If you have kids, you know that crayon and marker can end up on walls no matter how careful you are. Instead of painting over the mess, WD-40 can help remove it without damaging the paint.
Spray a little WD-40 onto a clean cloth and gently rub the marks. The crayon or marker should lift off quickly. Once the area is clean, wipe it down with a damp sponge and mild soap to remove any leftover residue. This trick works on painted walls, whiteboards, and even some types of wallpaper.
8. Keep Bike Chains and Tools Running Smoothly
Over time, bike chains and hand tools can become stiff or start to rust, making them difficult to use. WD-40 helps lubricate moving parts, keeping them in good condition and extending their lifespan.
To maintain a bike chain, spray a small amount of WD-40 onto a cloth and wipe the chain to remove dirt and rust. Then, apply a bicycle-specific lubricant to keep the chain running smoothly. You can also use WD-40 on tools like pliers, screwdrivers, and wrenches to prevent them from getting stuck due to rust or dirt buildup.
9. Prevent Wasps from Building Nests
Wasps love to build nests in quiet, undisturbed areas like under eaves, in garages, or around outdoor lights. Once they settle in, they can be hard to remove. Fortunately, WD-40 can help prevent them from nesting in the first place.
Spray WD-40 in the areas where wasps tend to build their nests. The slick surface and strong smell discourage them from setting up camp. This method works best in spring and early summer before wasps have a chance to establish their colonies.
10. Get Rid of Stuck Chewing Gum
Chewing gum stuck to carpets, clothing, shoes, or even hair can be a nightmare to remove. Instead of pulling and stretching it, which can make things worse, WD-40 can loosen the gum, making it easy to remove.
Spray a little WD-40 onto the gum and let it sit for about a minute. The gum will start to break down, allowing you to wipe or scrape it away without damaging the surface. This trick works on fabric, sidewalks, and even the bottom of desks and tables.
An All-in-One Solution for Everyday Problems
WD-40 is much more than just a lubricant—it’s a problem-solver for all kinds of household and outdoor challenges. Whether you’re trying to clean up sticky messes, prevent rust, or make winter tasks easier, this powerful spray has countless uses. Keeping a can on hand means you’ll always have a quick and easy solution for unexpected problems.
With so many clever uses, it’s no wonder WD-40 has been a household favorite for decades. Try out these tricks and see just how useful this little can of spray can be!
Read More: 20 Warning Signs Your Home Needs Attention