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9 Weird WD-40 Uses For Your House

A can of WD-40 sitting in a workshop.
BenedekAlpar/Shutterstock.com

WD-40 is known for its ability to loosen stuck bolts, quiet squeaky hinges, and prevent rust. But did you know there are other WD-40 uses for around your house?

So what can WD-40 be used for, you ask? Well, we’ve put together a list. We’re here to explore some of the weird and unexpected ways you can use WD-40 around your house and garden. From repelling bugs to removing crayon marks, WD-40 proves to be a versatile and effective tool.

Bug Repellent

Are pesky insects invading your home? WD-40 has come to the rescue countless times as a handy, dandy, effective insect repellent.

Spray a light mist of WD-40 bug repellent around windows, doors, and other entry points to repel bugs. The smell is unpleasant to insects, deterring them from entering your living space.

Remember to reapply every few weeks or after cleaning to maintain its effectiveness.

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Stock up on this versatile product so you always have a backup.

WD40 to Clean Crayon Marks on Walls

A kid scribbles on a wall.
Juan Aunion/Shutterstock.com

If your mini Picasso has left their artistic toddler marks all over your walls, don’t stress about it. WD-40 can help remove crayon marks without damaging the paint.

Spray a small amount of WD-40 onto a clean cloth and gently rub the crayon marks. The lubricant will break down the wax, making it easier to wipe away. Remember to wipe the area with a mild soap and water solution afterward to remove any residue.

Bathroom Cleaner

If you’re out of your usual trusty cleaning products but still have a bathroom to clean, grab your can of WD-40 instead of heading to the store. This helpful product is a whiz at breaking down dirt and grime.

You can use WD-40 on your shower tiles to clean the grout, your bathroom floors to clean and shine, and even your doors. Apply the product directly to a surface you want to clean or apply it to a cleaning towel, then use it to wipe and scrub.

Keep Garden Tools Rust-Free

Rusty pruning sheers.
superyoon/Shutterstock.com

Every gardener needs a quality set of tools. Due to the nature of gardening, however, it’s super easy for these tools to get rusty and worn. Keep your garden tools looking good as new with WD-40.

Spray a little WD-40 on any metal parts of your pruners, shears, and other garden tools to ensure smooth operation and rust-free use. You can prevent corrosion, extend the lifespan of your beloved tools, and make them easier to use.

Grenebo Gardening Tools 9-Piece Heavy Duty Gardening Hand Tools

Grab a fresh set of gardening tools and use WD-40 to keep them in shape.

Remove Sticker and Label Residue

Are you struggling to remove stubborn stickers or label residue from surfaces? WD-40 can make this task a breeze.

Spray a generous amount on the sticker residue and let it sit for a few minutes. The adhesive will loosen, allowing you to wipe it off with ease. You can repeat the application-then-wipe process as many times as needed to fully remove the residue.

Shine Patio Furniture

If you’ve been cleaning your outdoor patio furniture but want to give them a little extra shine, go grab your can of WD-40.

Spray a little bit of WD-40 on a cleaning cloth and carefully wipe down your patio furniture until it shimmers in the sunlight. This works best for metal or wood furniture. Be sure to thoroughly buff any areas you plan to sit on to remove excess residue. You don’t want WD-40-stained clothes.

Also, it should go without saying, but let’s say it anyway: WD-40 shouldn’t be used to polish any fabrics or cushions on your outdoor furniture.

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Sometimes the best way to revitalize your patio furniture is with a quality replacement.

Remove Scuff Marks from Floors

WD-40 lying on a floor.
MichaelDechev/Shutterstock.com

Scuff marks on your vinyl, wood, or tile floors can be unsightly, but WD-40 will help erase them

Spray a small amount of WD-40 on a soft, clean cloth and gently rub the scuff marks. The lubricant will help break down the marks, making them easier to remove. Be sure to wipe the area clean with a mild detergent and water solution afterward to remove any residue.

Unfreeze Door Locks

During cold winter months, door locks can freeze and become a source of frustration. While a de-icing spray should be your immediate go-to, WD-40 can suffice in a pinch.

WD-40 helps unfreeze locks by melting the ice and lubricating the mechanism. Spray a small amount of WD-40 directly into the lock, insert the key, and turn it to help distribute the lubricant. This should free up the lock and allow it to function smoothly.

Clean Stainless Steel Appliances

Stainless steel appliances can easily accumulate fingerprints, grime, and smudges. This quickly makes them appear dull. WD-40 is a game-changer when it comes to cleaning and restoring the shine of stainless steel surfaces.

Simply spray a small amount on a clean cloth and wipe down the appliance, following the stainless steel grain. The WD-40 will help dissolve grease and grime, leaving your appliances looking brand new.


WD-40 is not just a one-trick pony. Its versatility extends well beyond traditional lubrication tasks. Grab that trusty can and discover the weird and wonderful ways it can make your household chores a bit easier.

Abbey Ryan Abbey Ryan
Abbey Ryan is a storyteller, preferably of stories in written form. Across the 5 years of her professional writing career, her work has been featured in The Chicago Tribune, Amazon, The Medical News Today, and more. When she's not writing (which is rare), she's likely traveling, painting, or on the hunt for a good snack. Read Full Bio »
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