How do I empty all the contents of my WD-40® can?
On occasion WD-40 Multi-Use Product may be ‘out of gas’ or have liquid left in the can that cannot be sprayed out. Once a can is out of gas there is no way to get the rest of the liquid out. WD-40 Multi-Use Product uses a non-flammable CO
2 propellent, it also allows 97% of usable liquid when used as per directed.
To maximise your can of WD-40 Multi-Use Product:
Shake your can. This will quickly mix the additives and solvent together so that you get an even mixture and the best results.
Not recommended to spray horizontally. This can cause the gas to escape preventing all the liquid from spraying out of the aerosol can. For best results, the can should be held in an upright or upside-down position for the liquid to flow out when the nozzle is pressed.
For more information, read our how-to guide here.
What does WD‑40 Multi-Use-Product contain?
While the ingredients in WD-40 Multi-Use Product are secret, we can tell you what it does NOT contain. WD-40 Multi-Use Product does not contain silicone, kerosene, water, graphite, or chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs).
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, water displacement and soil removal.
What should I use to degrease bare metal prior to painting?
Can I use your products on my PVC/UPVC doors and windows?
You may 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 its safe for use on rubber and plastics.
Can I use your products on my aluminium doors and windows?
You may 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 on plastic?
WD-40 Multi-Use Product has been tested on these surfaces and materials with successful results:
- PPS Copolymer Polysulfone
- Viton
- Acetal
- Teflon
- Neoprene/ Hard Rubber
- HDPE
Clear polycarbonate and polystyrene may stress or crack when in contact with WD-40.
Please check the material compatibility in our SDS for WD-40 Multi-Use Product which is available on our website.
Although WD-40 Multi-Use Product can be used on a variety of surfaces we recommend testing in an inconspicuous area before larger application.
When should I use WD‑40 Specialist Contact Cleaner?
Use WD-40 Specialist Fast Drying Contact Cleaner when you need to clean the metal electrical contact points in sensitive electronics and electrical equipment, including circuit boards, printers and copiers, switches and controls, electric panels, and generators.
It is safe to use on most plastics, most 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.
How long does WD‑40 Multi-Use Product last after application?
While this may vary depending on the application coverage and surrounding environment, 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.
When should I use WD‑40 Specialist Fast Acting Citrus Degreaser?
Use WD-40 Specialist Fast Acting Citrus Degreaser to quickly remove grease, oil, dirt, tar and more.
When should I use WD‑40® Specialist White Lithium Grease?
Use WD-40 Specialist White Lithium Grease for metal-to-metal lubrication, it
is a thick lubricant film that doesn’t drip and remain in place on horizontal and vertical surfaces.
When should I use WD‑40® Specialist Silicone lubricant?
Use WD-40 Specialist High Performance Silicone when you need a lubricant that's colourless, non-staining and safe for most rubbers and plastics. It provides superior performance across a wide temperature range and offers moisture resistance.
When should I use WD‑40® Specialist Fast Release Penetrant??
Use WD-40 Specialist Fast Release Penetrant to quickly loosen and remove frozen, corroded, bound, and rusted nuts, bolts, clips and locks.
Is WD‑40® Multi-Use Product a degreaser?
No, WD-40 Multi-Use Product is not a degreaser although it contains a hydrocarbon solvent as part of the formula which can exhibit a degreasing effect. WD-40 Multi-Use Product can help to remove dirt, dust, grease and grime, however it will leave a clean oily protective layer behind and thus not leave the surface completely residue free. Why not try our WD-40 Specialist Fast Acting Citrus Degreaser which is designed to remove dirt, dust, grease and grime without leaving an oily residue.
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 and ready for storage. 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 Fast Drying Contact Cleaner which is designed to clean electrical metal contacts.
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.
Can you spray WD‑40® Multi-Use Product on brake callipers?
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 its components that require friction to operate when the parts are in service/regular use.
Is WD‑40® Multi-Use Product good for bicycle chains?
WD-40 Multi-Use Product is safe to use on your bicycle chain and is great for displacing water and preventing rust on your chain after washing/cleaning, although we recommend using WD-40 Bike Chain Lubricant for more targeted lubrication on your bicycle as these products are specifically designed for your bike.
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.
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.
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 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.
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 and WD-40 Specialist is formulated for maximum performance to help get specific tasks done with ease. The WD-40 Specialist line of products outperforms the competition in key performance areas.
Can the aerosol be used upside down?
Yes!
WD-40 Multi-Use Product contains a 360° ball bearing value; a mechanism that allows the can to be used upright or upside down. There is also a small opening (a tap hole) at the very bottom of the valve. In the valve is a small ball bearing.
When a WD-40® can is held upright, the propellant is at the top, and the liquid at the bottom of the can. In this position, the ball bearing blocks a small hole in the valve, allowing the liquid through the bottom of the dip tube. When the can is held upside down, the propellant is at the bottom of the can and the liquid is at the top. In this position, the ball bearing blocks the bottom of the dip tube and opens the valve at the top, in contact with the liquid, is now open. For more information on how to get the most out of the can, see this
guide.
The worst position to hold a can of WD-40® is sideways. Here the ball bearing blocks neither hole, and you lose a substantial amount of propellant (escapes much faster than liquid). When all the propellant is gone, the aerosol will no longer function.
What is WD‑40® Specialist?
WD-40 Specialist is a line of best-in-class maintenance products specifically formulated to help you get specific tasks done with ease. WD-40 Specialist products have been proven effective through multiple ASTM tests with outstanding results in performance.
Why does my red straw not fit the nozzle?
The red straw is made to fit tightly around the nozzle to prevent it being forcefully ejected or blow out causing any damage. We have reviewed the fit of the red straws recently for an easier fit.
Alternatively, you can purchase our Smart Straw or EZ-Reach cans which have the straw built into the can.
How do I keep the red straws from getting lost?
The iconic red straws can be clipped onto the caps, there are grooves especially for that! However, we do have the WD-40 Smart Straw which features a high-impact-resistant nozzle, 360° valve system and permanently attached straw, so WD-40 Multi-Use Product users will never lose the straw again. Flip down for a wide spray or flip up for a pinpoint stream, the WD-40 Smart Straw gives consumers a better way to spray!
When should I use a penetrant?
Use WD-40 Specialist Fast Release Penetrant to quickly loosen and remove frozen, corroded, bound, and rusted nuts, bolts, clips, locks, etc.
Where can I buy WD-40 Specialist® Automotive products?
WD-40 Specialist Automotive is currently available across major Automotive customers in Australia and you can find
more details in this link
Is a 330mL non-aerosol more product than a 330g aerosol?
No, because WD-40 Trigger Spray is a non-aerosol liquid. Aerosol products are a "net weight" measure that includes the propellant (3%). You can say non-aerosol (100% usable product) has more usable product than aerosol (97% usable product)
Can you put a Smart Straw on WD-40® Trigger Spray?
No. WD-4 Trigger Spray cannot be taken apart once assembled.
What happens if I pull the trigger when it is in the locked position?
No product will be able to evacuate. However, pressure may build in the can and may dispense once you rotate the nozzle to stream or spray.
Is the efficacy the same in WD-40® Trigger Spray vs. WD-40® Multi-Use Product aerosol cans?
Yes, the formula provides the same, great WD-40 performance.
Why can’t I refill Trigger Spray when it is empty?
This container is designed for single use and is not intended to be a refillable product. Removing the trigger can strip the closure and cause the can to leak.
I usually just hose my bike down when it’s dirty. How should I use the All Surface Wash?
When washing your bike, don’t forget the underside of the frame and fork where the heaviest gunk resides. Spray your entire bike with WD-40 BIKE All Surface Wash, from top to bottom. Use a soft brush and work the product into all the nooks and crannies to get the dirt moving.
The original WD-40 Multi-Use Product already has great penetrating properties, why should I also buy WD-40 Specialist® Fast Release Penetrant?
WD-40 Multi-Use Product was invented in 1953 with five basic functions: It lubricates, penetrates, protects, cleans and removes, and displaces moisture. WD-40 Specialist Fast Release Penetrant is specifically formulated to penetrate rusted and corroded parts and loosen seized fixings. To determine the penetrating ability of a fluid, a large nail is used to evaluate how quickly and completely the fluid will move up a vertical surface. This is referred to as a Nail Climb Test and according to this test, WD-40 Specialist Fast Release Penetrant penetrates at least 50% faster and farther than WD-40® Multi-Use Product. WD-4 Multi-Use Product has over 2000+ fantastic uses and is a great multi-use product, but for a specific application, such as penetration, we recommend using the WD-40 Specialist Fast Release Penetrant.
When should I use WD-40 Specialist® Rust Prevention Lanolin?
Use
WD-40 Specialist Rust Prevention Lanolin for long term corrosion protection on metal surfaces under extreme climatic and high humidity conditions. This product generates a lanolin film which does not dry out or wash off easily with water and is highly resistant to salt, water, acid and humidity with great applications across marine, industrial, farming, transport and more.
The nozzle doesn’t seem to work like other spray nozzles. Why is it so difficult to turn?
In order to change between the spray patterns/settings, simply press down on the blue tab near the yellow tip on top of the trigger and turn nozzle to spray or steam.
Is there a difference with disposing aerosol products versus non-aerosol products?
There might be. Best to check with your local council.
What is the difference between the original WD-40 Multi-Use Product and the WD-40 Specialist® Rust Prevention Lanolin?
WD-40 Multi-Use Product was invented in 1953 with five basic functions: lubricates, penetrates, protects, cleans, and displaces moisture.
WD-40 Specialist Rust Prevention Lanolin is specifically formulated with a high percentage of natural Lanolin which is a natural substance derived from sheep’s wool. This formula produces a thicker protective film which will not wash off easily or dry out.
What is the difference between the original aerosol and the trigger spray?
You can apply the product more quickly than the aerosol. The wide spray allows for greater coverage with more spray out than standard WD-40 aerosol.
The trigger spray is perfect for areas where aerosols are prohibited – depending upon conditions, job, safety issues, and/or profession, this non-aerosol product is suitable for all workplaces, which do not allow dangerous goods or pressurised aerosols. Product “evacuation” problems occur throughout the aerosol industry, which can affect some of the aerosol products we produce - while this non-aerosol product addresses this issue.
Why is my WD-40® liquid a milky colour?
Separation of one of the corrosion inhibitors can be accelerated by colder temperature. Shaking the liquid will correct it back to its normal characteristic. Note, this milky colouring problem is applicable to all lubricants but is typically seen in the WD-40 Bulk varieties.
Is WD-40 Specialist® Fast Acting Citrus Degreaser solvent based or water based?
Yes, it is water based.
Can you use degreaser on bathroom tiles?
Yes, degrease can remove soap scum and can be used on bathroom tiles
Where can I purchase the WD-40 Specialist® Lawn & Garden range?
The WD-40 Specialist Lawn & Garden range is currently available at Bunnings Warehouse in the Power Gardening Aisle, Mitre 10, Total Tools and all leading Hardware/Garden retailers.
Where can I use WD-40 Specialist® Lawn & Garden?
The WD-40 Specialist Lawn & Garden range has been purposely developed for the Australian garden and climate and is specifically formulated for the maintenance of lawn and garden tools and equipment.
What surfaces are safe for the WD-40 Specialist® products to be used on?
Fast Drying Contact Cleaner: Electrical equipment, contacts, plastic and rubber.
Fast Acting Citrus Degreaser: a wide variety of surfaces including metal.
Brake & Metal Parts Cleaner: Brake and metal parts.
High Performance Silicone Lubricant: Metal, plastic, rubber and wood.
Anti Friction Dry PTFE Lubricant: all metal and non-metal surfaces including glass and plastic.
Anti-Friction Dry PTFE: Safe to use on metals, glass and plastic.
High Performance White Lithium Grease: Ideal for metal-to-metal application.
What is WD-40 Specialist® Lawn & Garden?
Purposely formulated for the Australian garden and climate, the WD-40 Specialist Lawn & Garden range is Australian made and developed with imported & local ingredients. As the only product of its kind, WD-40 Specialist Lawn and Garden is a new range of garden products specifically formulated to clean, lubricate and protect your garden tools and equipment, so your tools work better for longer. The range includes a Powerful Foaming Cleaner, General Use Lubricant, Water Protective Silicone and Tool Protectant Grease. When used together, the WD-40 Specialist Lawn and Garden range will take complete care of your garden tools and equipment all year round.
How does the WD-40 Specialist® Lawn & Garden range make my garden tools last longer?
Fertilisers and other chemicals that you use in the garden contribute to the rapid corrosion of metal parts on your garden tools and equipment. By preventing this corrosion and protecting your tools from rust, WD-40 Specialist Lawn & Garden will save you time and money in the long run.
Does WD-40 Specialist® Lawn & Garden protect wood and rubber as well as metal?
Yes, it does. If you spray your wooden handles with WD-40 Specialist Lawn & Garden General Use Lubricant, your wooden handles won’t splinter. If you use WD-40 Specialist Lawn & Garden Water Protective Silicone, it will prevent residue build-up and prolong the life of your rubber handles and plastic surfaces. Note for rubber, always test surfaces first.
What if my garden tools already have rust on them?
If rust has built up on tools, spray with WD-40 Specialist Lawn & Garden Powerful Foaming Cleaner. Allow the foam to penetrate and wipe clean (scrub with a brush if required). Then clean metal surfaces using WD-40 Specialist Lawn & Garden General Use Lubricant. Old and stubborn rust may require the use of a steel brush. To protect from future rust, saturate the area and do not wipe off.
Do I have to scrub my hand tools with WD-40 Specialist® Lawn & Garden Powerful Foaming Cleaner to shift dirt and deposits?
If you have been cleaning your tools regularly, or they are brand new, you shouldn’t need to scrub your hand tools to shift dirt or deposits. Simply rinse the soil off digging tools with a garden hose or outside tap and spray some WD-40 Specialist Lawn & Garden Powerful Foaming Cleaner on your tools to help break down resin, sap, dirt, oil, grease, residue and deposits. If there is a build-up, you may need to rub with a brush or a cloth to help shift the dirt and grime. Wash off any excess liquid and dry thoroughly.
Why should I avoid taking the chain off to clean it?
If your chain needs cleaning, try and do so with it still on the bike. Breaking your chain repeatedly weakens the link and over time can lead to failure. If the chain uses a master link or a “quick link”, avoid breaking it unnecessarily, as most modern “quick links” (mainly on 10-speed chains) are single use only.
My chain is completely covered in gunk. What’s the best way to degrease it?
To properly degrease a chain, put your bike on a work stand and shift into the largest chain ring and the middle of the cassette. Use WD-40 BIKE Heavy Duty Degreaser on the chain and chain rings. Scrub off deep-set grime with a stiff brush. Wet a sponge with water and add some Heavy Duty Degreaser to the center. Fold the sponge in half and make a chain sandwich. Back pedal and get the chain to foam. Rinse off the foam and wipe dry.
How should I apply lubricant to my chain?
When lubricating your chain, drip the lubricant onto each individual roller instead of just applying a stream along the entire length of the chain. Lubricant does nothing for the outside of the chain; it only works to reduce friction and keep dirt out of the inside of the rollers. Be sure to run a rag over the chain after letting the lube set for a while. Any lube left on the outside of the chain will be a magnet for dirt and grime.
Where can I find the SDS for your product?
How do you remove WD-40® Multi-Use Product?
There are a few options available:
- First, you can use WD-40 Specialist Fast Drying Contact Cleaner, noting it is solvent based so ensure it is compatible with the material you are using it on. If unsure, test on inconspicuous area first.
- Alternatively, you can use petroleum distillates (mineral spirits, Stoddard solvent) or ketones (acetone, methyl ethyl ketone) – ensure it is compatible with the material you are using it on. If unsure, test on inconspicuous area first.
- Or you can use hot, soapy water and scrub until WD-40® Multi-Use Product is removed.
I hear you can use WD-40® Multi-Use Product for many things – is there a list where I can find out all the uses of WD-40® Multi-Use Product?
There sure is! You can click on the link
here to find out more.
Can WD-40® Multi-Use Product be used for my arthritis or joint pains?
WD-40 Company makes no medical claims for WD-40 Multi-Use Product. We know no reason why WD-40 should be effective for arthritis/pain relief. WD-40 is formulated to be a light lubricant, penetrating oil, and water displacing corrosion preventative. It contains petroleum distillates and should be handled with the same precautions for this type of material. It does not contain DMSO. We have never recommended the use of WD-40 for medical purposes. Originally, WD-40 was created as a rust-prevention product for use in the aerospace industry, to protect the outer skin of the Atlas Missile from rust and corrosion. It is also not recommended because of the possibility of skin irritation.
Is WD-40® Multi-Use Product safe on electrical parts?
Yes! Make sure you switch off the electrical equipment before spraying. WD-40® is a cleaner, lubricant and corrosion inhibitor. WD-40 Company also sells a product within the WD-40 Specialist Range named Fast Drying Contact Cleaner, which a nonconductive cleaner that penetrates quickly and leaves no residue.
Click here for more information.
Is WD-40® Multi-Use Product food grade?
No - the WD-40 Multi-Use Product range is not intended for use in food preparation areas
How do you safely store WD-40® Multi-Use Product?
Aerosol cans must be kept under 50°C and keep away from heat, sparks and all other sources of ignition. Also, ensure the can is kept out of reach of children.
Does WD-40® Multi-Use Product contain silicone?
WD-40 does not contain silicone and is safe to use on surfaces prior to painting.
Are WD-40® Multi-Use Product Aerosol products flammable?
Yes.
Does WD-40® Multi-Use Product contain fish oil?
No, WD-40 does not contain fish oil. Consumers have told us for years that they've caught some of the biggest fish ever after protecting their fish hooks and lures with WD-40. We believe this legend came from folks assuming the product must contain fish oil since it appears to attract fish. Despite the stories, this is simply not true.
What is the shelf life of WD-40® Multi-Use Product?
WD-40 is a product 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 can be 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.
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, of course, require additional applications of WD-40 Multi-Use Product for maximum protection.
What does WD-40® Multi-Use Product do?
WD-40 Multi-Use Product fulfils five basic functions:
- CLEANS: WD-40 Multi-Use Product gets under dirt, grime and grease to clean. It also dissolves adhesives, allowing easy removal of labels, tape and excess bonding material. WD-40 can even remove surface rust.
- PROTECTS: WD-40 Multi-Use Product protects metal surfaces with corrosion-resistant ingredients to shield against moisture and other corrosive elements.
- LUBRICATES: WD-40 Multi-Use Product’s lubricating ingredients are widely dispersed and tenaciously held to all moving parts.
- PENETRATES: WD-40 Multi-Use Product loosens rust-to-metal bonds and frees stuck, frozen or rusted metal parts.
- DISPLACES MOISTURE: Because WD-40 Multi-Use Product displaces moisture, it quickly dries out electrical systems to eliminate moisture-induced short circuits.
Click here for more information about the 5 functions.
Can 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. Ensure to end by spraying with WD-40 Multi-Use Product to protect the surfaces from future rust.