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WD-40 Stain Removal

Josh Arnold

Both a lubricant and solvent, WD-40 is typically used to loosen up rusty parts and seized hinges, locks and other metal parts. Because the product is also a solvent, it's proficient at removing both sticky substances, including gum and tape, as well as grease stains such as cooking and automotive oil.

Can of WD-40.

Sticky Stains

If there is a piece of chewed gum or gummy adhesive, such as tape, stuck to your couch, carpet or other material, you can use WD-40 to loosen the sticky substance so you can remove it. Scrape off as much of the substance as you can using a knife or other object before applying the WD-40. Apply a small amount of the product to the stain. Allow it to penetrate for 20 minutes before working it off with a soft cloth. You can repeat the process as needed until the stain is gone.

Grease Stains

WD-40 is effective in removing grease stains from fabric and even hard surfaces, such as concrete garage floors. The solvent properties in WD-40 will dissolve the grease, making it easier to remove with a cloth. Follow the same process as removing sticky stains, repeating as necessary until the grease disappears. Parents can also use WD-40 to remove crayon stains from surfaces such as concrete and brick.

Precautions

Be careful when using WD-40 on fabric as the brown liquid can cause stains as well as remove them. Never use the product on delicate materials such as silk and satin. WD-40 has a chemical odor, so you'll need to wash any fabrics you use it on with laundry detergent soon after application.

The Drip Cap

  • Both a lubricant and solvent, WD-40 is typically used to loosen up rusty parts and seized hinges, locks and other metal parts.
  • The solvent properties in WD-40 will dissolve the grease, making it easier to remove with a cloth.
  • Be careful when using WD-40 on fabric as the brown liquid can cause stains as well as remove them.