WD-40 Stain Removal

WD-40 Stain Removal
Written By
Josh Arnold
Josh Arnold
Published: Nov 10, 2009
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
2 minute read

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.

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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.

Photo Credits

Adrian Sawvel/iStock/Getty Images

Adrian Sawvel/iStock/Getty Images

Josh Arnold

Josh Arnold has been a residential and commercial carpenter for 15 years and likes to share his knowledge and experience through writing. He is a certified journeyman carpenter and took college-accredited courses through the Southwest…

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