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What kind of lubricant is WD-40?

Author

Daniel Moore

Published Jan 21, 2026

WD-40 Specialist® Silicone Lubricant safely lubricates, waterproofs and protects metal and non-metal surfaces such as rubber, plastic and vinyl. This formula dries fast and leaves a clear, non-staining film that doesn't stick or make a mess, so it won't attract dirt.

Is WD-40 a silicone based lubricant?

A multi-surface silicone lubricant that lubricates, waterproofs and protects. WD-40 Specialist® silicone safely lubricates, waterproofs and protects metal and non-metal surfaces such as rubber, plastic and vinyl.

Is WD-40 an oil based lubricant?

Myth: WD-40 Multi-Use Product is not really a lubricant. Fact: While the “W-D” in WD-40 stands for Water Displacement, WD-40 Multi-Use Product is a unique, special blend of lubricants. The product's formulation also contains anti-corrosion agents and ingredients for penetration, water displacement and soil removal.

Is WD-40 a degreaser or lubricant?

WD-40 is a lubricant (fish oil to be exact) dissolved in a solvent. While it can break down grease and oil to a certain degree, it also adds back some. This might be desirable if you are cleaning a hinge, conveyor, or corrosive-prone part, but not if you need it truly clean.

Where should you not use WD-40?

But Don't Spray It On:

  1. Door hinges. Sure, WD-40 will stop the squeaking, but it also attracts dust and dirt. ...
  2. Bike chains. WD-40 can cause dirt and dust to stick to a chain. ...
  3. Paintball guns. WD-40 can melt the seals in the guns.
  4. Locks. ...
  5. iPods and iPads.
20 related questions found

How poisonous is WD-40?

Ingestion: This product has low oral toxicity. If swallowed, this material may cause irritation of the mouth, throat and esophagus. Swallowing may cause gastrointestinal irritation, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness and other central nervous system effects. This product is an aspiration hazard.

What can WD-40 be used for?

Home Uses For WD-40

  • Removes glue residue from old paneling.
  • Helps lubricate gate valve on a house.
  • Helps remove paint from tile flooring.
  • Keeps sewing machine wheels turning smoothly.
  • Loosens and penetrates rusted or stuck plumbing joints.
  • Loosens rusted bolts.
  • Lubricates and protects power tools.
  • Removes rust from saws.

Does WD-40 break down grease?

Whatever the job, you've found the solution. WD-40® Multi-Use Product protects metal from rust and corrosion, penetrates stuck parts, displaces moisture and lubricates almost anything. It even removes grease, grime and more from most surfaces.

Why is WD-40 called WD-40?

It took them 40 attempts to get their water displacing formula to work, but on the 40th attempt, they got it right in a big way. WD-40 Multi Use Product was born. WD-40 stands for Water Displacement, 40th formula. That's the name straight out of the lab book used by the chemist who developed the product.

Is WD-40 a good lubricant for bearings?

Did you know a spray of WD-40 Specialist White Lithium Grease is a great lithium lubricant for bearings? It reduces friction on bearings and helps keep them protected from rust as well. Simply apply by spraying directly onto the area.

What is lubricant spray?

Lubricant sprays ensure quick and easy lubrication and relubrication of areas difficult to access and for spot application. We offer speciality lubricants in spray cans for a wide range of applications to protect your machines and components reliably against wear.

Is silicone spray the same as silicone lubricant?

The main difference between silicone spray and dry lubricant is that silicone spray is water repellent, whereas dry lubricant is not water repellent. Silicone Spray contains silicone, whereas dry lubricant contains PTFE.

Is silicone spray the same as silicone oil?

Technically no, but they should function the same. The point of the oil is just to act as a lubricant, so any lubricant would work regardless of what it's comprised of, provided it doesn't react with the materials in your gun, or the propane.

What does WD-40 smell like?

Nothing close to the usual smell of solvent / thinner / turpentine / gasoline / kerosene / etc. I would describe it as similar to hot butterscotch candy, maybe with a tinge of lemon or orange peel; "sweetish", but rather strong and off-putting, almost nauseating.

Is WD-40 flammable?

Theoretically, the components in WD40 are volatile, not flammable, but as the spray, it is flammable. However, it is extremely flammable in gaseous form when driven by butane or another flammable aerosol (also owing to the shift in surface-to-volume).

Is WD-40 safe for electronics?

WD-40® Specialist® Electronics and Electrical Parts Cleaner will help you remove dirt, dust and oils from your sensitive electronics and connections. For your fast-moving motors, stuck switches, controls, and other long-lasting lubricant needs, use WD-40® Specialist® Spray & Stay Gel Lubricant. It won't run or drip.

Can WD-40 Remove car scratches?

No matter how careful you are with your car, a scratch or scuff mark is going to appear. While WD-40 Multi-Use Product cannot help in situations where the metal has been damaged, it can help with scuff marks, where another car has come into contact with yours and left some paint residue.

Can you leave WD-40 on car paint?

Can You Leave Wd-40 On Car Paint? You won't have any problems with your car's paint if you use WD-40. Mineral oil-based, WD-40 adds additional corrosion protection to the finish and protects the clear coat, as well as adding additional protection to the finish.

Is WD-40 toxic to humans?

Yes, WD-40 can potentially cause nasal and respiratory irritation and central nervous system effects such as headache, dizziness, and nausea—especially when inhaled at higher concentrations. You should always use WD-40 in moderation and in a well-ventilated area.

Is WD-40 good for arthritis?

Patients who suffer from arthritis are trying anything to relieve those stiff and aching joints.

Is WD-40 safe on skin?

Also, understand that it can be very harmful if swallowed and can aggravate respiratory issues if not used in a well-ventilated area. Furthermore, it can irritate skin, so ignore any advice to use it on your skin to “lubricate” your joints. WD-40 comes with a long assortment of uses – just be sure to utilize it safely.

Where should you not use silicone spray?

Because it is so slippery and persistent, avoid using silicone spray under the following conditions:

  1. DO NOT USE SILICONE SPRAY ON ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS, SWITCHES, RELAYS, ETC. ...
  2. On any surface upon which you walk, sit, or lay.

What is white lithium grease spray used for?

White lithium grease is used to keep components moving smoothly, free of friction and seizing. You can also apply it preventatively to protect against rust and corrosion. White lithium grease can be used to: Lubricate car door hinges.