FAQ’S
Who invented WD-40 Multi-Use Product?
Norman Larsen and The Rocket Chemical Company
When was WD-40 Multi-Use Product first made?
WD-40® Multi-Use-Product was first made in 1953.
Where can I buy WD-40 Multi-Use Product?
WD-40® Multi-Use Product is available almost everywhere. It can be found in many countries in automotive, convenience, discount, drug, grocery, hardware, and home center stores. It's also available from leading distributors all over the world.
Why can’t I empty all the product in my aerosol can?
Given that product "evacuation" issues, which occur when some product remains trapped inside a can and cannot be sprayed, are prevalent in the aerosol industry, they can impact the production of certain products. If you encounter difficulties with an aerosol can not spraying, we suggest following this concise troubleshooting guide:
- Shake the can vigorously.
- Turn the opening of the aerosol valve to the blue mark on the crown of the can.
- Hold the can vertically and not at an angle.
- If you're unable to get a result, contact us and we'll send you a replacement.
What was WD-40 Multi-Use Product originally made for?
WD-40® Multi-Use-Product was first used to protect the outer skin of the Atlas Missile from rust and corrosion.
What is WD-40 Multi-Use Product used for?
WD-40® Multi-Use Product has over 2000 uses covering a variety of subjects and industries including home, garden and automotive.
What does ‘WD-40’ stand for?
WD-40' literally stands for Water Displacement, 40th formula. That's the name straight out of the lab book used by the chemist who developed the product back in 1953. The chemist, Norm Larsen, was attempting to concoct a formula to prevent corrosion—a task which is done by displacing water. Norm's persistence paid off when he perfected the formula on his 40th try.
What is WD-40 Specialist® Bike ?
WD-40 Specialist® Bike is a high-performance line of bicycle care products developed via collaboration between WD-40 Company scientists, professional bike mechanics and independent bicycle retailers. The WD-40 Specialist Bike line was designed for maintenance-minded cycling enthusiasts.
What is WD-40 Specialist?
WD-40 Specialist® is a line of specialized products designed to meet the unique needs of professionals and DIY enthusiasts. These products are formulated with advanced technology to provide enhanced performance in a variety of applications. Whether it's lubricating tools and machinery, protecting against rust and corrosion, or loosening stuck or frozen parts, WD-40 Specialist has a solution for every job. With a wide range of products including lubricants, degreasers, and penetrants, WD-40 Specialist is the go-to brand for those who expect nothing but the best.
How is the WD-40 Specialist line of products different from the original WD-40 Multi-Use Product?
The WD-40 Specialist® product line is an extension of the WD-40 brand. WD-40 Company realizes that sometimes tough jobs require products designed for specific applications (i.e., high-performing specialty lubricants, penetrants, rust removers, etc.) and WD-40 Specialist is formulated for maximum performance to help workers get specific tasks done with ease.
How long is the shelf life of WD-40 Multi-Use Product?
WD-40® Multi-Use Product is a product of persistent nature which is designed and manufactured to a high degree of specifications. The product should continue to perform as expected for an almost indefinite period of time. However, actual performance is affected by the longevity of mechanical items such as the valve assembly on aerosol cans. 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 Multi-Use Product should be stored at the temperature recommended in the MSDS.
How was WD-40 Multi-Use Product invented?
It was invented when a small company call Rocket Chemical Company set out to create a line of rust prevention solvents and degreasers for use in the Aerospace industry.
How do I keep the red straws from getting lost?
For our classic cans, we provide grooves on the top of the cap where you can safely clip and store the straw when not in use. Better still, we also have the Smart Straw®, which features a high-impact-resistant nozzle, a 360-degree valve system, and a permanently attached straw, so WD-40® Multi-Use Product users will never lose the straw again. Flipped down for a wide spray or flipped up for a pinpoint stream, the Smart Straw gives consumers a better way to spray! You will never lose the straw again!
When using WD-40 Specialist® Bike Degreaser on my bike chain, should I rinse with water afterwards?
With the WD-40 Specialist® Bike Degreaser it is really up to how dirty the components are. The formula itself is fast evaporating and leaves no visible residue. So if it's not too dirty then just spray liberally and use a cloth to collect the dirty liquid, there is no need to use water. If the chain is severely dirty and greasy then it is a very good idea to rinse with water to help ensure that all of the dirty liquid is removed. In some cases you may need to reapply the degreaser to remove all of the previous dirt and greasy grime. Always remember that the WD-40 Specialist Bike Degreaser leaves no residue and therefore is not a corrosion inhibitor. To protect the chain, relubricate with a chain lube or apply a corrosion inhibitor like WD-40® Multi-Use-Product for storage.
When should I use a white lithium grease?
WD-40 Specialist® White Lithium Grease is a viscous, non-drip formula, ideal for metal-on-metal applications, and is suitable for high pressure, heavy loads. Additionally, WD-40 Specialist White Lithium Grease provides corrosion protection, and is durable and long-lasting.
Will WD-40 Multi-Use Product remove rust?
WD-40® Multi-Use Product helps remove rust by breaking down the bonds between metal and rust. Spray the rusted surface with WD-40 Multi-Use Product, enough to thoroughly soak the area. Allow it sit for up to 10 minutes. Clean the rusted item with a wire brush. With the rust loosened, the brush should clean away most of the corrosion. Brush the surface until you’re satisfied you removed most of the rust and wipe any remaining residue. End by spraying with WD-40 Multi-Use Product to protect the surfaces from future rust.
When should I use a Silicone Lubricant?
Use WD-40 Specialist® Silicone Lubricant when you need a lubricant that's clear, non-staining, and safe for most rubbers and plastics. This lubricant provides brilliant performance across a wide temperature range and offers excellent moisture resistance.
Will WD-40 Multi-Use Product damage car paint?
WD-40® Multi-Use Product has been tested on many types of paint on various surfaces with no effect. Although WD-40 Multi-Use Product can be used on a variety of surfaces we recommend testing in an inconspicuous area before larger application. Wax polishes and certain wax coatings may be softened by WD-40 Multi-Use Product.
Will WD-40 Multi-Use Product damage paint?
WD-40® Multi-Use Product has been tested on many types of paint on various surfaces with no effect. Although WD-40 Multi-Use Product can be used on a variety of surfaces we recommend testing in an inconspicuous area before larger application. Wax polishes and certain wax coatings may be softened by WD-40 Multi-Use Product.
What can I use to release stuck door hinges?
You can use WD-40® Multi-Use Product to release stuck door hinges. Our original product is great for lubrication and to keep moving parts moving! However, if you are spraying near a painted surface, be mindful that WD-40 Multi-Use Product may cause stains. We also advise you to contact the manufacturer of the door or windows to ensure using products on them doesn't effect your warranty!
What can I use to release stuck window hinges and runners?
You can use WD-40® Multi-Use Product to release stuck window hinges and runners. Our original product is great for lubrication and to keep moving parts moving! However, if you are spraying near a painted surface, be mindful that WD-40 Multi-Use Product may cause stains. We also advise you to contact the manufacturer of the door or windows to ensure using products on them doesn't effect your warranty!
When should I use a Penetrant?
Use WD-40 Specialist® Penetrant Spray to quickly loosen and remove seized, corroded, bound, and rusted nuts, bolts, clips, locks, etc.
When should I use a contact cleaner?
Use WD-40 Specialist® Contact Cleaner Spray when you need to clean the metal electrical contact points in sensitive electronics and electrical equipment, including larger electric motors, armatures, relays, electric panels, and generators. It is safe to use on most plastics, rubber and metal when used as directed - cleans oil, dirt, flux residue and condensation without leaving residue behind.
When using, keep the following advice in mind:
To prevent any accidental damage always check the manufacturer’s instructions before applying product to device. Do not spray into cavities, openings, gaps or areas of your device where this product does not have sufficient airflow to assist full evaporation. Shake can well and isolate all power, allowing hot surfaces to cool. Tilt surface while cleaning to allow any excess liquid to run off and ensure product is completely dry before restoring power.
When should I use a degreaser?
Use a degreaser product to quickly remove grease, oil, dirt, tar and more.
Is WD-40 Multi-Use Product a degreaser?
WD-40® Multi-Use Product is not a degreaser - it is a lubricant, water-displacer, and removes and prevents rust and corrosion.
Is WD-40 Multi-Use Product good for bicycle chains?
WD-40® Multi-Use Product is safe to be used on your bicycle chain and is great for displacing water on your chain after washing/cleaning, although we recommend using WD-40 Specialist® BIKE for more targeted lubrication on your bicycle as these products are specifically designed for your bike.
What should I use to degrease bare metal prior to painting?
You can use the WD-40 Specialist® Degreaser on bar metal prior to painting as it leaves no visible residue. Just let the product properly dry before you paint the metal.
Is WD-40 Specialist® Degreaser safe to use on matte painted alloys?
WD-40 Specialist® Degreaser is an industrial degreaser that is for use on bare metals only, and should not be used on painted or coated surfaces, plastic, or rubber.
What does WD-40 Multi-Use Product do?
WD-40® Multi-Use Product fulfils the following basic functions:
1. LUBRICATES: The product's lubricating ingredients are widely dispersed and tenaciously held to all moving parts.
2. PENETRATES: WD-40 Multi-Use Product loosens rust-to-metal bonds and frees stuck, seized, or rusted metal parts.
3. PROTECTS: The product protects metal surfaces with corrosion-resistant ingredients to shield against moisture and other corrosive elements.
4. DISPLACES MOISTURE: Because it displaces moisture, WD-40 Multi-Use Product quickly dries out electrical systems to eliminate moisture-induced short circuits.
Is WD-40 Multi-Use Product a lubricant?
Yes. 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 and water displacement.
Is WD-40® Multi-Use-Product safe to use on electrical voltages as a moisture repellent with circuits energised?
Our Multi-Use-Product is designed to displace moisture and has a dielectric strength of 38 000V per 2.5mm which basically means that you would require more than 38 000V per 2.5mm of space between two metal contacts for electrical breakdown/conductance to occur. However, we don't advise you to use our Multi-Use-Product on an energised circuit. Our aerosol can and flexible straw are metal (conduct electricity) and could brush up against a contact. We always recommend disconnecting power, spraying, allowing sufficient ventilation and then reconnecting power.
What can I use on the moving parts, catches, locks on my doors and windows?
Using WD-40 Multi-Use Product as a penetrant to release stuck window hinges and to displace water after washing is a great use of our product. For light lubrication especially of locks and catches, you can use WD-40 Multi-Use Product, but for the more specialist user we suggest applying the following after MUP.
For light hinges and rails use WD-40 Specialist Silicone (or Specialist Dry PTFE) as it is great at eliminating sticking and binding. Make sure to wipe up any over spray though as we don't want it getting onto any curtains.
For heavier windows and ratchet systems use WD-40 Specialist White Lithium Grease
The above two options (Silicone and WLG) would be more than sufficient for any window lubrication and corrosion protection.
If you know that a particular window rail, hinge or ratchet will be subject to extreme conditions and are worried about corrosion and seizing then Specialist Spray Grease with the added WD-40 formula would be the one to use for corrosion protection but these situations are unlikely to occur.
If you are spraying near a painted surface, be mindful that WD-40® Multi-Use Product may cause stains. We also advise you to contact the manufacturer of the door or windows to ensure using products on them doesn't affect your warranty!
Just remember, you should make sure to clean out all the grime to give our greases a fair chance to work and wipe off any excess MUP before applying our greases. Small amounts of MUP left won't affect the performance of our greases. The important thing is to apply our greases to a clean surface with no grime or older grease.
How long does WD-40 Multi-Use Product last after application?
While this may vary depending on the application, WD-40® Multi-Use Product remains effective even after it appears to dry. The corrosion and rust protection ingredients remain adhered to the surface. External conditions may require additional applications of the product for maximum protection.
Do your products stop wood or laminate floor squeaking?
Unfortunately, we do not have any products to fix this!
Can WD-40 Multi-Use Product be used on rubber?
WD-40® Multi-Use Product has been tested on various surfaces and materials with successful results. Although WD-40 Multi-Use Product can be used on a variety of surfaces we recommend testing in an inconspicuous area before larger application. Certain types of rubber will swell upon prolonged immersion in WD-40 Multi-Use Product.
Can I use your products on my aluminium doors and windows?
We would recommend that you use WD-40® Multi-Use Product on aluminium doors and windows. However, if the surface is painted we recommend that you patch test on an inconspicuous area first. We also advise you to contact the manufacturer of the door or windows to ensure using products on them doesn't affect your warranty!
Can WD-40® Multi-Use Product be used to clean a toilet?
WD-40® Multi-Use Product is not a toilet cleaner and should never be used for this purpose.
Can you spray WD-40 Multi-Use Product on brake calipers?
WD-40® Multi-Use Product can be used to protect metal brake components while in storage and to assist in dismantling brake assemblies and seized callipers. WD-40 Multi-Use Product should not be sprayed on brakes or any components that require friction.
Can WD-40 Multi-Use Product be used on plastic?
WD-40® Multi-Use Product has been tested on various surfaces and materials with successful results. Although WD-40 Multi-Use Product can be used on a variety of surfaces we recommend testing in an inconspicuous area before larger application.
The following plastics were immersed in WD-40 Multi-Use Product for 168 hours with no visible effects:
• Polyethylene • Formica • Epoxy
• Delrin • Polypropylene • Acrylic
• VinylTeflon • Polyester • Nylon
Clear polycarbonate and polystyrene may stress craze or crack in contact with the product.
Please see the material compatibility section in our TDS for WD-40 Multi-Use Product which is available on our website.
Can I use your products on my PVC/UPVC doors and windows?
We would recommend that you use WD-40® Multi-Use Product on PVC or UPVC doors and windows. However, if the surface is painted we recommend that you patch test on an inconspicuous area first. We also advise you to contact the manufacturer of the door or windows to ensure using products on them doesn't affect your warranty! Another product that would be suitable is WD-40 Specialist Silicone as it's safe for use on rubber and plastics.
Can WD-40® Multi-Use Product be used on locks?
Yes, simply spray WD-40 Multi-Use Product into the lock, leave to soak in and wipe away any excess product.
Can I use your products to lubricate the aluminium tracks on my shower door?
For this particular task, WD-40 Specialist Dry PTFE is recommended. Ensure that the tracks are completely dry before applying the lubricant. This will create a thin layer of lubrication and won't be easily washed away.
Can WD-40 Multi-Use Product be used as a contact cleaner?
WD-40® Multi-Use Product is not a contact cleaner and will leave a protective lubricating layer on the application surface. In some cases, this is desired and WD-40 Company would recommend treating metal contacts with WD-40 Multi-Use Product after they have been cleaned. WD-40 Multi-Use Product can also be used to displace any moisture on electrical contacts and PCB's. Why not try our WD-40 Specialist Contact Cleaner which is designed to clean metal electrical contacts.
Can the aerosol be used upside down?
WD-40® Multi-Use Product and some of the WD-40 Specialist® range contains a 360o ball bearing valve; a mechanism that allows the can to be used upright, upside-down or at any angle depending on the level of product left in the can and the placement of the dip tube. When the can is upright, the product will flow through the dip tube and when upside down the product will dispense directly from the valve at the top of the can.
Can I use WD-40 Specialist® Cutting Oil on wood as well?
Our cutting oil is designed to be beneficial in situations where the drill bit or cutting blade becomes heated. When these tools are subjected to drilling or cutting, their tempering is often reversed, reducing their lifespan. By using our cutting oil, heat accumulation is controlled and frictional forces are minimized. Lubrication is another key benefit of using cutting oil. However, it is important to note that our cutting oil is specifically made for use on metals and may leave oil marks on wood. This is not a problem if you plan to treat the wood with oil afterwards.
Can I use WD-40 Multi-Use Product on my arthritis?
WD-40 Company Limited does not support or endorse any claims regarding the medical benefits of WD-40® Multi-Use Product. We do not possess any evidence to substantiate its effectiveness in treating arthritis or providing pain relief. The primary purpose of this product is to serve as a light lubricant, penetrating oil, and corrosion preventative. Its composition consists of petroleum distillates, and it should be handled with caution, adhering to appropriate safety precautions for such materials. It is important to note that DMSO is not present in this product, and we have never recommended or advised using WD-40® Multi-Use Product for medical purposes. Additionally, individuals with sensitive skin, including those with eczema, are advised against using it due to the potential risk of skin irritation.
What does WD-40® Multi-Use-Product contain?
Although the exact components of WD-40® Multi-Use Product are not disclosed, WD-40 Multi-Use Product does not contain silicone, kerosene, water, graphite, chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), or indeed fish oil as is commonly misreported. By providing a list of substances that are not present in its formulation, WD-40 Company assures consumers that it prioritises safety, effectiveness, and environmental consciousness. This transparency allows individuals to make informed decisions when selecting a versatile and reliable product for various applications.
Is WD-40 Multi-Use Product conductive?
No, WD-40® Multi-Use Product is non-conductive and has a dielectric strength of 38 000V per 2.5mm which basically means that you would require more than 38 000V per 2.5mm of space between two metal contacts for electrical breakdown/conductance to occur. However, we don't advise you to use our Multi-Use-Product on an energised circuit. Our aerosol can and flexible straw are metal (conduct electricity) and could brush up against a contact. We always recommend disconnecting power, spraying, allowing sufficient ventilation and then reconnecting power.
Are any products in the WD-40® Company Limited range safe for use in the food processing industry or safe to use in areas with possible food contact?
None of the WD-40 Company products are safe for possible food contact, however, you can see which of our products are safe for use in food processing areas by checking if they have an NSF logo. You can also check via: https://info.nsf.org/USDA/psnclistings.asp by entering 'WD-40 Company Limited'. From there you can download the NSF Certificates too.
Are WD-40® aerosol products flammable?
WD-40® Multi-Use Product aerosol is classified as an extremely flammable aerosol according to Regulation (EC) 1272/2008 (CLP). Please refer to the WD-40 Multi-Use Product aerosol warning text label or Safety Data Sheet on precautions for safe handling and use.
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