9 Surprising Places You Shouldn't Use WD-40—and What to Try Instead

Door Locks

When your house key is jammed in the lock, many reach for that can of WD-40. But home improvement expert Jim Marino cautions against common practice. "Unfortunately, most people use WD-40 on door locks, which is a place you should never use it," he says. "Because WD-40 attracts dust and dirt, it can clog up the internal mechanisms, making the problem worse."

Marino recommends using a dry graphite powder instead, which functions as dry lubrication and is a solid choice for stubborn locks. Be sure to choose a graphite powder that has been sustainably sourced, responsibly handled, and manufactured using eco-friendly practices. Alternatively, you can try cooking spray or coconut oil on your door locks.

Bike Chains

Similarly, bike chains can get clogged up by WD-40. According to Thomas Borcherding, owner at Homestar Design Remodel, WD-40’s tendency to collect dust and dirt can cause a chain to perform even worse down the road.

Try using a graphite powder in this instance to keep your bike running smoothly and safely. Sustainable lubricants can also be substituted for WD-40: There are a number of them on the market, containing plant-based ingredients that are biodegradable.

Windows and Sliding Doors

Steer away from WD-40 when it comes to sticking windows and sliding door tracks. "WD-40 attracts and collects dirt and dust, making a stubborn window or door worse over time," explains Marino. Additionally, "WD-40 also degrades rubber which can lead to air infiltration, as it reduces the effectiveness of rubber seals used around doors or windows," he adds. 

Consider applying liquid or powder graphite, as well as vegetable or coconut oil, in place of WD-40. "Natural vegetable oils apply perfectly to vinyl windows and doors and can help with sticking and binding—without damaging your rubber seals," says Borcherding.

Garage Door Tracks

For troublesome garage door tracks, Marino cautions against using classic WD-40 because of its tendency to attract more dirt—which will only worsen your problem. "Silicone-based lubricants are far superior and won’t attract dirt to stick to the track," he says. (WD-40's primary ingredient, on the other hand, is petroleum—though the company does offer a silicone-based alternative.)

Wood

When your cabinet hinges are making a raucous, resist reaching for that can of WD-40, says Borcherding. He maintains that the biggest mistake people can make when it comes to the product is applying WD-40 to wooden furniture or cabinets to make drawer tracks or hinges perform better. "WD-40 soaks into the wood and can damage finishes or even the wood grain itself," he warns. 

In place of WD-40, Borcherding recommends using beeswax on or around your wood items. "Since beeswax has a protective, conditioning property when applied to wood, it’s the perfect substitute," he explains. “A little beeswax goes a long way when applied to drawer glides or even hinges."

Gas Stoves, Furnaces, and Water Heaters

“Due to WD-40’s flammability, I strongly discourage its use around flammable fixtures, such as gas stoves, gas-powered furnaces, and gas-powered water heaters,” Borcherding urges.

An acceptable replacement is vegetable oil or olive oil. Though they are still combustible, they are safer for gas fixtures such as gas stove knobs or gas-powered water heaters. Even better, opt for a more solid lubricant such as bar soap or coconut oil, as these will prevent drips and splashes in flammable areas. 

Remember: It is essential to exercise caution when applying any substance around flammable fixtures.

Painted Hinges

If you are looking to maintain the paint on the hinges of painted doors, be sure to steer clear of WD-40. “Door hinges on painted doors can be stained with WD-40,” cautions Marino.

If you have a creaky hinge, try a silicone spray instead.

Toilets and Faucet Fixtures

Avoid using WD-40 around toilet and faucet fixtures to preserve the integrity of their materials, namely rubber. "Since WD-40 can degrade rubber, its usage around toilets and faucets can cause O-ring, washers, or cartridge seals to degrade over time," warns Borcherding. "This can result in leaks or failure, making for a costly repair." 

Borcherding suggests using cooking spray as an effective alternative to WD-40 when it comes to use on toilets and faucets. "Pressurized cooking spray ensures you can reach the entire diameter of your faucet and keeps you at a distance from your toilet," he explains.

Electronics

Electronics are sensitive and moisture-adverse—therefore, they're not ideal for being sprayed with a liquid degreasing agent. According to Marino, "it’s ill-advised to use WD-40 on your electronics." He recommends keeping it away from your keyboard or mouse, and choosing compressed air designed specifically for cleaning electronics instead.