15 Ways WD-40 Can Backfire and Cause More Damage
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WD-40 is a household name recognized for its multi-functional capability to address various maintenance needs. Based in San Diego, California, USA, WD-40 reported net sales of $537.3 million in fiscal year 2023. Currently, its products are available in over 176 countries and territories worldwide. Its widespread usage comes from its believed ability to lubricate, clean, and protect.
Its formula, a mix of lubricants and volatile compounds, made it a staple worldwide in homes, garages, and workshops. However, if misapplied, there are associated side effects with using the product: material damage, increased maintenance costs, and even hazardous situations.
Using WD-40 on Locks Can Attract Dirt and Cause Jamming
The general belief is that WD-40 is a temporary solution to jammed locks, which may exacerbate the problem over time. It attracts dust and dirt, leaving a sticky film inside the lock mechanism.
Silicone or graphite-based lubricants are better options because they repel debris. According to a study by Locksmith Ledger, using the wrong lubricant may result in expensive repairs if the lock is not replaced.
WD-40 temporarily relieves the symptoms, but repeated application causes more damage to the lock’s interior. The gunk that accumulates prevents the tumblers or pins from working properly and increases the risk of the lock breaking down. Professional locksmiths advise against using WD-40 at all to prolong your locks’ lives and keep them operational.
Damages Bike Chains by Stripping Necessary Lubricants
WD-40 is often misused on bike chains but must be kept decently lubricated. It removes grease and protective oils needed to avoid wear and tear. Prolonged use can degrade the chain’s lifespan. Proper bike chain lubricants provide a smoother ride and protection against rust and corrosion.
It does not adequately protect chains from heavy moisture, leading to premature rusting, especially in wet or humid conditions. A high-quality chain lube for bikes is recommended to ensure optimal performance and avoid costly replacements.
Can Deteriorate Rubber Seals on Windows and Doors
While spraying on the rubber seals of windows and doors sounds like an excellent maintenance idea, WD-40 could damage those areas. SlashGear says that, over time, the petroleum-based chemicals in WD-40 degrade the rubber. That degradation takes several forms, such as cracking and hardening, which reduce the seal’s capability to block air and water.
These weakened seals can compromise energy efficiency by allowing drafts. According to data from the U.S. Department of Energy, poorly sealed windows and doors account for about 30% of a home’s energy loss. Silicone-based lubricants are better options for maintaining the integrity of rubber seals.
Increases Fire Hazards When Used Near Open Flames
It is flammable, especially when sprayed in confined spaces or near heat sources. According to its safety data sheet, the WD-40 flash point is 122°F or 50°C, making it easy to ignite. This becomes a bigger risk when this product is used wrongly, for instance, cleaning or lubricating appliances near gas stoves or fireplaces.
Long-term risks also occur because the resulting residue is flammable until it has fully evaporated. Use non-flammable cleaning products when operating in areas where open flames are present. The key is to follow the product label and safety procedures to prevent fire.
Can Strip Paint and Damage Painted Surfaces
Although WD-40 has been presumed safe for cleaning, it does strip paint off the surface, permanently damaging it. The solvents in the product break down the topcoat on vehicles and painted furniture, causing discoloration.
When sprayed onto painted walls or household items, WD-40 leaves stains and oily residues. Home maintenance pros recommend testing a small, hidden area first or using a cleaner specifically for painted surfaces. An ounce of prevention can save a lot of dollars in costly touch-ups or repainting.
Reduces Effectiveness of Electrical Contacts
Many people make a terrible choice when cleaning electrical contacts. WD-40 could decrease conductivity rather than improve it. The residue left behind by the product attracts dust, which interferes with the flow of electricity, probably causing components to short or malfunction. Proper contact cleaners do a much better job and are safe for sensitive equipment.
Besides, WD-40 can degrade insulation materials and hence increase electrical failure. Its use on circuit boards or terminals increases the possibility of sparks and overheating. Manufacturers of electrical parts discourage WD-40 from being used for electronic cleaning and prefer unique products.
Damages Hardwood Floors Creating a Slippery Surface
Using WD-40 to remove scuffs or polish hardwood floors might seem convenient, but it can cause significant damage. The oily residue the product leaves attracts dirt, further affecting the finish. Over time, this buildup forms dulling on the wood, requiring professional refinishing.
The slippery layer it creates may be an accident waiting to happen, as it increases the likelihood of falls. Homeowners should continue to apply cleaning solutions for hardwood floors to keep them naturally glowing without deterioration.
Weakens Adhesives and Seals on Plumbing Fixtures
WD-40 is commonly used to lubricate plumbing fixtures, which it should not do. The product degrades adhesive seals. WD-40 dissolves silicone-based sealants commonly used in sinks, faucets, and showerheads. Leaks can lead to costly repairs, including potential water damage.
WD-40’s long-term lubrication properties are not suitable for use in a wet environment. With time, rubber washers and O-rings experience drastically increased wear and tear. Using any such plumbing-specific products will ensure better performance and durability.
Causes Irritation on Skin and Eyes if Misused
Generally considered safe, WD-40 can irritate when it comes into contact with skin or eyes. The product’s Material Safety Data Sheet highlights that prolonged skin exposure may lead to dryness or dermatitis. Cases of mild to moderate irritation are reported annually due to improper handling of household lubricants like WD-40.
This could cause redness, pain, and even chemical burns in extreme cases. To minimize risks, one should always wear protective gloves and goggles when using WD-40 and wash their hands afterward. Proper handling will ensure a safer experience with fewer complications of health issues.
Creates Residue That Attracts Dirt on Car Interiors
WD-40 on car interiors, especially plastics or vinyl, can do more harm than good. It may give that shiny outlook when used, but its oily residue invites dust and grime. This will make interiors look dirtier with time and require more frequent cleaning. Using WD-40 too frequently on your dashboard and panels will work to reduce lifespan.
Long-term use of WD-40 can deteriorate UV-protection coatings on plastic surfaces, which may be more prone to fading and cracking. In its place, use specialized interior cleaners that safeguard against dust while maintaining cleanliness without leaving a buildup.
Can Harm Leather Products by Breaking Down Natural Oils
According to Saddleback Leather, spraying WD-40 on leather furniture or clothes might seem easy to remove a stain or loosen stiffness, but it causes permanent damage to the material. The chemical composition of WD-40 draws out the natural oils of the leather, keeping it soft and supple, but ultimately, it causes it to dry out, crack, and discolor.
WD-40 will cause discoloration, mainly to dyed leather, since its solvents will react with the pigments. Conditioners or cleaners are much better options to uphold the integrity of this material for a decent, long-lasting life.
Makes Glass Surfaces Difficult to Clean
Some use WD-40 to remove smudges or adhesives from glass, but in reality, it leaves behind a greasy film that might be hard to remove later. This film decreases clarity and draws in dirt and fingerprints, making the glass appear dirty sooner.
Oily residue can smear across the surface, complicating the cleaning process. Vinegar- or ammonia-based cleaners are better suited for glass, offering a streak-free shine without leaving harmful residues.
Impairs Grip and Surface Coatings on Tools
WD-40 is frequently used to clean and lubricate tools but can degrade rubberized grips and protective coatings over time. The product’s petroleum base dissolves specific polymers, making handles slippery and challenging to hold.
WD-40 can strip anti-rust coatings, leaving tools vulnerable to corrosion. Instead, to ensure safety and longevity, you can use specialized rust removers or light machine oils for maintenance.
Causes Slippage on Sports Equipment
WD-40 is counterproductive when used on sports equipment such as treadmill belts, golf clubs, or tennis rackets. The residue makes holding and performing with these items slippery, impairing performance and even leading to safety hazards.
House Digest says using WD-40 on treadmill belts may cause them to slip, which can cause mechanical failure and injury. It can also damage the rubber grip or any synthetic coating on sports equipment, preventing its effective performance.
Damages the Protective Layer on Electronics
Sometimes used to clean or protect electronic devices, WD-40 can damage them over time. Its petroleum-based formula degrades protective coatings on circuit boards and components, increasing the risk of electrical shorts.
According to City Magazine, electronics that come into contact with WD-40 are likely to malfunction because of the accumulation of residues or damage to insulation.
Its flammability prohibits its application on heat-emitting gadgets, including laptops and gaming consoles. Electronics manufacturers indicate that isopropyl alcohol or dedicated contact cleaners should be used to effectively and safely clean any electronic device.
Can Corrode Certain Metals with Prolonged Exposure
While WD-40 is generally used to prevent rust, prolonged exposure to it rusts certain metals, especially softer metals like aluminum. The repeated application creates a chemical reaction that weakens the metal’s surface. The problem of rust is evident in outdoor settings where WD-40 interacts with moisture and air pollutants.
The residue of WD-40 can trap moisture, which accelerates corrosion rather than slowing it down. Better options for protecting metals in harsher environments include anti-corrosion sprays or wax-based protectants.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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