what is wd 40 made of
Daniel Johnston
Updated on June 29, 2026
Convair, an aerospace contractor, first used WD-40 Multi-Use Product to protect the outer skin of the Atlas Missile from rust and corrosion. The product actually worked so well that several employees snuck some cans out of the plant to use at home.
Is WD-40 toxic to humans?
This product is an aspiration hazard. If swallowed, can enter the lungs and may cause chemical pneumonitis, severe lung damage and death. Chronic Effects: Prolonged or repeated skin contact may defeat the skin resulting in irritation and dermatitis.
What is WD-40 not good for?
But Don’t Spray It On:
Door hinges. Sure, WD-40 will stop the squeaking, but it also attracts dust and dirt. Bike chains. WD-40 can cause dirt and dust to stick to a chain. Paintball guns. WD-40 can melt the seals in the guns.Locks. iPods and iPads.
What is a good substitute for WD-40?
#1 Trick Shot Penetrating Lubricant
This product is very similar to WD40 but is non-flammable, non-toxic, and 100% biodegradable. It can do everything WD40 can do, from loosening stiff locks to cleaning pine sap off your cooking utensils.#2 Petroleum Jelly. #3 Beeswax. #4 Plumber’s Grease.
Is WD-40 good for arthritis?
Patients who suffer from arthritis are trying anything to relieve those stiff and aching joints.
Is WD40 cancerous?
Is WD-40 a Carcinogen? WD-40 states that “None of the components are listed as a carcinogen or suspect carcinogen by IARC, NTP, ACGIH or OSHA.”
Is WD40 good for skin?
Inhalation: High concentrations may cause nasal and respiratory irritation and central nervous system effects such as headache, dizziness and nausea. Intentional abuse may be harmful or fatal. Skin Contact: Prolonged and/or repeated contact may produce mild irritation and defatting with possible dermatitis.
Is WD40 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).
Will WD-40 eat plastic?
According to the link @mike posted, WD-40 is safe for metals and plastics.
Does WD-40 ruin plastic?
WD-40 can be used on just about everything. It is safe for metal, rubber, wood and plastic. WD-40 can be applied to painted metal surfaces without harming the paint. Polycarbonate and clear polystyrene plastic are among the few surfaces on which to avoid using a petroleum-based product like WD-40.
Does WD-40 eat rubber?
According to the website WD40 is safe on rubber. The only materials which are mentioned as being affected are polycarbonate and clear polystyrene.
Can I use Vaseline instead of WD-40?
Vaseline acts as a lubricant, so you can use it as a substitute for WD-40. Apply a thin layer of the gel on squeaky or sticking door hinges, cabinets, and windows, and on the tracks of sliding glass doors to keep things moving smoothly.
Can I use coconut oil instead of WD-40?
A thin layer of oil will actually help repel dust from surfaces, making them easier to wipe down in the future. Fix squeaky hinges. If you don’t have WD-40 at the ready or you want a more natural solution, then by all means, give your coconut oil a go.
Can you use cooking spray instead of WD-40?
When bothered by squeaky or rusty hinges, you probably have the quick cure right in your kitchen. Any cooking spray will work just fine, and most of us have a can of that on hand.
Can you drink WD-40?
Skin contact: May cause drying of skin and/or irritation. Eye contact: May cause irritation, tearing and redness. Ingestion (Swallowed): May caused irritation, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. First Aid Emergency Procedures Ingestion (Swallowed): Do not induce vomiting, seek medical attention.
Can WD-40 be used on plumbing?
Tip: Use WD-40® Specialist® Penetrant to loosen and penetrate rusted or stuck plumbing joints.
How was WD-40 invented?
That’s the name straight out of the lab book used by the chemist who helped develop WD-40 back in 1953. Norman 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 for WD-40 on his 40th try.