WD-40 is the end-all, be-all lubricant for quick home repair hacks (bye, squeaky doors) or for removing sticker residue. But, if you’re out of this beloved spray, there are WD-40 substitutes just as easy to use. And most subs are items that you have at home, like Vaseline.
As a multipurpose lubricant to fix or clean all sorts of things, WD-40 (aka water displacement, 40th formulas) is a popular choice for simple household fixes. However, it’s important to note that each of these alternative substances has different properties and may not be suitable for every application. It’s always a good idea to test a small area first to ensure that the substitute works well for your particular situation.
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Vegetable Oil
Mostly any kind of oil works as a lubricant, but vegetable oil can be used on metal or plastic surfaces. It’s also a good choice around food prep areas since it’s safe for incidental ingestion. However, like other oils, it may attract dust and dirt and become sticky over time.
Olive Oil
Olive oil can also work as a WD-40 replacement for metal or plastic areas that need loosening. Plus, its light scent makes it a good choice for applications that might be sensitive to odor. Like vegetable oil, wherever it’s applied may call it to become a dust magnet, as well as being sticky.
Related: Next time you’re in a WD-40 pinch, use olive oil coupons before you go with this replacement.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a good lubricant that can also help protect metal surfaces from rust and corrosion. And it’s a great choice for outdoor applications since it’s waterproof and resistant to high temperatures. Since coconut oil has natural antibacterial properties, it’s a nice option for jobs where cleanliness is important.
Petroleum Jelly
Good old petroleum jelly can work as a quick WD-40 substitute on metal, plastic, and rubber finishes. It’s a good choice for jobs where a thicker, more viscous lubricant is needed. It can also help protect against rust and corrosion.
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Mineral Oil
Another WD-40 substitute is mineral oil, which can be used on plastic and metal surfaces to reduce friction and prevent rust and corrosion. It’s often used as a cutting fluid in machining applications because it helps keep cutting tools cool and lubricated. You can also use it as a conditioner for leather as a protective coating for the surface.
Beeswax
Beeswax can be applied to screws, nuts, and bolts to help them turn more smoothly, and it also works on tools as well as other metal objects to prevent rust and corrosion. Use it to lubricate wooden surfaces, such as drawer slides or door hinges. Since it’s nontoxic and safe for incidental ingestion, it’s a good choice for food-prep areas and lubricating kitchen tools or appliances.
Plumber’s Grease
Use this option only for plumbing applications. It’s a silicone-based lubricant suitable for rubber and plastic surfaces, such as O-rings, gaskets, and seals, to help prevent leaks and make assembly easier.
Both waterproof and heat-resistant, you can apply it to areas where exposure to water or high temperatures is a concern. Plus, plumber’s grease is effective for other types of machinery, such as garage door openers, that have rubber or plastic components.
PTFE Spray
PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) spray is a popular dry lubricant that can be used on metal, rubber, and plastic areas. It helps to reduce friction and prevent wear and tear on moving parts. Since it’s a dry lubricant, it won’t attract dust and dirt. And, it’s waterproof and resistant to high temperatures, making it a good choice for outdoor jobs.
Silicone Spray
This is a popular lubricant that can be used on metal, rubber, and plastic. Like some of the others, it’s also waterproof and heat-resistant, making it a good choice for outdoor use to protect against corrosion and rust.
Graphite Powder
Graphite powder is a dry lubricant for metal, rubber, and plastic. That said, it won’t attract dust and dirt. This powder can help prevent wear and tear on moving parts.
Brake Cleaner
Brake cleaner is a solvent-based solution that can be used to remove grease, oil, and other contaminants from metal areas. It’s not a lubricant, but it can be useful for cleaning metal parts before lubrication.
Cooking Spray
In a pinch, you can use cooking spray, but it’s not recommended for long-term use since it can attract dust and dirt. Plus, some brands may contain additives that could be harmful to certain surfaces.
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