WD-40 is designed to stop rusting by displacing the water in cracks and crevices in metallic (that is what the “WD” stands for). It is usually a flexible lubricant, and might even be used as a solvent—however there are some locations it is best to by no means spray it.
WD-40 doesn’t have the identical viscosity as conventional grease or oil, and it will possibly erode sure finishes, and it will possibly trigger issues when used in its place. Although it is tempting to suppose it’s a good suggestion in all places it is advisable to lower down on friction, listed below are some locations it is best to positively by no means use WD-40.
Don’t use WD-40 on plastic
In case you’re attempting to lubricate a hinge on a pair of sun shades or take away a price ticket from the floor of a plastic container, you could be tempted to achieve for the can of WD-40…however it is best to by no means apply it to a transparent plastic floor or on polystyrene or polycarbonate plastic.
Generally labeled #6, merchandise that comprise styrene embody issues like toys, disposable cups and cutlery, and home equipment like smoke detectors. Polycarbonate, referred to as #7, may be present in kitchen home equipment like fridges, clear packaging, plastic lenses, and security gear. Due to the chemical make-up of WD-40, it will possibly trigger injury to those plastics and smash issues like sun shades with plastic lenses. In case you’re doubtful, it’s higher to keep away from utilizing WD-40 on plastic.
Don’t use WD-40 on wooden
WD-40 can dissolve wax finishes. In case you’re utilizing WD-40 to wash, it is best to maintain it clear of wooden floors and furnishings. Since wax creates a waterproof barrier that protects woodwork from water injury, it’s higher to go away the wax the place it’s. Additionally, as a result of WD-40 can seep into the grain of unfinished wooden, it’s typically not a good suggestion to apply it to any wooden floor, not simply waxed ones.
Don’t use WD-40 on pure stone
As a result of WD-40 is nice for many cleansing duties, you could be tempted to strive it on stone tile or counter tops. However pure stone is porous, and also you shouldn’t use WD-40 to wash it—WD-40 can soak into the floor of the stone and stain it. Additionally, many stone surfaces are handled with wax polish, and WD-40 can dissolve wax finishes.
Don’t use WD-40 on surfaces the place you put together meals
Some equipment firms advocate utilizing WD-40 to wash chrome steel, however it is best to by no means use WD-40 on surfaces that may keep in touch with meals. Whereas a streak-free shine is a strong motivator, WD-40 clearly shouldn’t be consumed. and whereas incidental contact with meals isn’t a giant deal, surfaces the place meals is in frequent or extended contact ought to by no means have WD-40 on them.
Don’t use WD-40 on electronics
You need to by no means use WD-40 on electronics, which may react with some plastics in addition to entice mud and different particles. Getting WD-40 in your sensible telephone or laptop computer can’t solely injury the display, it will possibly smash the buttons or make its manner into the inner elements. It’s greatest to make use of a cleaner specifically formulated for electronics.
Do not use WD-40 on bike chains
Though WD-40 is usually used as a stand-in lubricant, it isn’t a great substitute for bike-specific lubricant. It does not have the best viscosity for use as a series lubricant and it will possibly permit filth and fibers to stay to it over time. Whereas you need to use WD-40 to wash your bike chain, it isn’t a good suggestion to make use of it as a lubricant, and in the event you do resolve to make use of it to wash your chain, it is best to reapply your common chain grease afterwards.
Don’t use WD-40 for arthritis ache
This needs to be apparent, however sadly requires saying: Regardless of persistent claims on the contrary, WD-40 is not going to assist relieve arthritis ache or creaky, stiff joints. Whereas there are many ways in which WD-40 may help lubricate issues, your joints is not going to reply to it the identical manner as a caught bolt. Human our bodies positively don’t use the identical lubricant as engine elements, and medical professionals advocate towards utilizing WD-40 to deal with any sort of medical situation.
