What does WD-40 stand for?

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.

What was WD-40 originally created for?

WD-40 was invented in San Diego in 1953 as a rust-prevention solvent for Atlas missile outer skins. A chemist at the Rocket Chemical Company created a compound that would prevent rust and corrosion on the Atlas.

Why is WD-40 not a 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.

Why is WD-40 so effective?

Scientifically, water displacement is basically just displacing or moving fluid from a space. That is why WD-40 ® is so effective for cleaning or around the home. Not only does it prevent rust since it displaces moisture, but it can also displace dust, dirt, grease, grim, and almost anything.

Why is WD-40 in the toilet?

When cleaning a toilet bowl, WD-40 works by softening the rust and lime deposits, so they can be easily wiped away. You don't need to use much of it. Simply spray on the affected area, wait a minute or two and brush it away with a regular toilet brush.

WD-40: Where did it come from? | Stuff of Genius

What should you not use WD-40 on?

There are many different types of plastic, but there are two kinds that you should avoid using WD-40 on—polycarbonate and clear polystyrene plastic. Polycarbonate is a transparent plastic that is commonly used in greenhouses, and polystyrene is typically used for styrofoam and soft drink lids among other items.

Does WD-40 repel spiders?

Keep Spiders Away

It has lubricant-like properties that do not come from the substance itself, but rather from dissolving components. Have a fear of spiders? Just spray some WD-40 on places where spiders and other insects can get in, such as windowsills and door frames. It will keep the spiders and other bugs out.

Is WD-40 good for arthritis?

WD-40 Does Not Help Arthritis

Due to the myth that WD-40 helps arthritis, the WD-40 company website includes the following statement regarding the myth (amongst other cool myths, legends and facts)… Fact: This popular headline, appearing at least once a year in the tabloids, is completely FALSE.

Does WD-40 repel roaches?

Exterminate roaches and repel insects

Keep a can of WD-40 handy, and when you see a roach, spray a small amount directly on it for an instant kill. To keep insects and spiders out of your home, spray WD-40 on windowsills and frames, screens, and door frames.

Can I use WD-40 as chainsaw oil?

Maintain the chainsaw's bar

To degrease the bar, you should add some degreaser or lubricant such as WD-40® Multi-Use Product, mixed with warm water.

Does WD-40 remove rust?

WD-40 can help remove rust from metals like iron, chrome, and stainless steel without further damaging the surface of the metal or removing the paint. The Multi-Use Product is great for loosening and removing excessive surface rust.

Can you spray WD-40 on bearings?

Yes, you can apply any kind of lubricant to the bearings. Be sure to dry any excess once you have sufficiently lubricated the bearings.

Is WD-40 safe on skin?

Skin Contact: May cause moderate skin irritation with short-term exposure with redness, itching and burning of the skin. Prolonged and/or repeated contact may produce defatting and possible dermatitis. May cause an allergic skin reaction (sensitization).

How many times did WD-40 fail?

After 39 unsuccessful attempts, the San Diego-based business perfected the formula. The name of the product, WD-40, reflects its history: "Water Displacement perfected on the 40th try." While the uses of the water displacement agent have changed over time, the same formula is still sold today.

Does NASA use WD-40?

WD-40 was originally used by NASA to prevent rust and corrosion on spacecraft that launched the first satellites into orbit. It was invented by Georgia Tech engineering graduate Reginald Fleet and a team of scientists, and today only a handful of people still know the exact formula.

What is the best lubricant for joints?

Synovial fluid is the essential lubricant that cushions the joints so that the bones do not rub together.

How do you lubricate a stiff joint?

Your joints' lubricating fluid allows your joints to move with more ease and less stress. To activate those juices, start your exercise routine with a gentle 5-10-minute warm-up and gradually increase your effort. Another good way to self-lube is drinking more water. Stretch regularly.

How do you wash your hands with WD-40?

Applying a spray of solvent to your greasy hands can help cut into the grime and clean your hands before applying a soap lather. Spray your hands over a trash bin or other contained area and then rub your hands together, working the solvent into your greasy hands with your fingers to remove any grease buildup.

Why put WD-40 in gas tank?

According to them, it's useful as a fuel, lube, gunk remover, and scratch remover. Okay, maybe not so much as a fuel. After draining a gas tank and filling it with WD40, the engine dies pretty quickly, despite the fact that WD40 is a flammable substance.

Does WD-40 expire?

As such, the shelf life is considered to be 5 years from the date of production; however, product will often dispense and perform as expected for considerably longer. WD-40_® should be stored between 4 degrees centigrade and 54 degrees centigrade, and always shaken before use.

Can you leave WD-40 overnight?

This rust-removal formula has no toxic fumes, does not use acids or caustic chemicals, is non-irritating to skin, and is safe to use on most metals. To remove light rust, leave parts in the solution for 1-3 hours. To remove heavy rust, leave parts in the rust removal solution overnight.

What is a better lubricant than WD-40?

They concluded that vegetable oil and acetone mixture might be better than WD-40 in terms of both lubrication and rust prevention. Vegetable oil is something most preppers consider essential, and if you know how to store cooking oil for the long term, it will be readily available when disaster strikes.

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.