WD-40, the ubiquitous lubricant, is a household staple. But did you know that there are certain surfaces and applications where WD-40 should not be used? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the surprising list of what should you not use WD-40 on, ensuring you avoid potential damage and health hazards.
From electrical components to food-related surfaces, we’ll uncover the reasons why WD-40 is not suitable for these applications. So, get ready to expand your knowledge and use WD-40 safely and effectively.
Surfaces that should not be lubricated with WD-40
WD-40 is a versatile lubricant that can be used for a variety of purposes. However, there are certain surfaces that should not be lubricated with WD-40, as it can damage them.
Surfaces that should not be lubricated with WD-40 include:
Rubber
- WD-40 can cause rubber to swell and deteriorate. This can lead to leaks and other problems.
- Examples of rubber surfaces that should not be lubricated with WD-40 include tires, rubber gaskets, and rubber hoses.
Plastic
- WD-40 can damage plastic by causing it to become brittle and crack. This can lead to the plastic breaking.
- Examples of plastic surfaces that should not be lubricated with WD-40 include plastic gears, plastic housings, and plastic toys.
Painted surfaces
- WD-40 can damage paint by causing it to peel and flake. This can lead to the paint needing to be repainted.
- Examples of painted surfaces that should not be lubricated with WD-40 include painted walls, painted furniture, and painted cars.
Electrical contacts, What should you not use wd-40 on
- WD-40 can cause electrical contacts to become dirty and corroded. This can lead to electrical problems.
- Examples of electrical contacts that should not be lubricated with WD-40 include electrical connectors, electrical switches, and electrical outlets.
Electrical components
WD-40 is a popular lubricant that is often used to fix squeaky hinges, loosen rusty bolts, and protect metal surfaces from corrosion. However, there are some surfaces that you should never use WD-40 on, including electrical components.
WD-40 is a petroleum-based product that can damage electrical components. The oil can short-circuit electrical connections and damage sensitive electronics. In some cases, WD-40 can even cause fires.
Specific electrical devices or systems that should not be exposed to WD-40
- Electrical outlets and switches
- Circuit breakers and fuses
- Wiring and cables
- Electronic devices, such as computers, TVs, and radios
WD-40 should never be used on surfaces that come into contact with food, such as cookware, food preparation areas, or utensils. WD-40 is a petroleum-based product that contains harmful chemicals, including xylene, toluene, and mineral spirits. These chemicals can leach into food and pose serious health risks if ingested.
Potential health hazards
Ingesting WD-40 can cause a variety of health problems, including:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Central nervous system depression
- In severe cases, death
Inhaling the fumes from WD-40 can also be harmful, causing:
- Respiratory irritation
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath
- In severe cases, lung damage
For these reasons, it is important to never use WD-40 on food-related surfaces. If you accidentally get WD-40 on food, discard the food immediately. If you inhale WD-40 fumes, move to fresh air and seek medical attention if necessary.
Medical applications
WD-40 is not a medical treatment or disinfectant and should not be used as such. It is a water-displacing lubricant that is designed to protect metal surfaces from rust and corrosion. It is not intended for use on the human body and can be harmful if ingested or applied to open wounds.
Potential risks of applying WD-40 to wounds or other medical conditions
WD-40 contains petroleum distillates, which can irritate the skin and eyes. It can also cause respiratory problems if inhaled. If WD-40 is applied to an open wound, it can cause infection and delay healing. It can also be toxic if ingested, and can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.In
addition, WD-40 is not sterile and can contain bacteria that can cause infection. If WD-40 is applied to a medical device, it can contaminate the device and make it unsafe to use.
Other inappropriate uses: What Should You Not Use Wd-40 On
WD-40 is a versatile lubricant, but it is not suitable for all applications. Here are some additional inappropriate uses for WD-40:
- Cleaning eyeglasses:WD-40 can damage the delicate coatings on eyeglasses, leaving them smudged and scratched. Use a专门的 eyeglass cleaner instead.
- Lubricating locks:WD-40 can attract dirt and grime, which can clog the lock mechanism. Use a graphite-based lubricant designed for locks instead.
- Removing rust:WD-40 can temporarily prevent rust, but it is not a long-term solution. Use a rust remover specifically designed to dissolve rust.
- Unclogging drains:WD-40 is not effective at unclogging drains. Use a drain cleaner specifically designed to dissolve hair and other debris.
- As a cooking spray:WD-40 is not safe for consumption and should never be used as a cooking spray.