Developed in 1953 for rust prevention on intercontinental ballistic missiles, WD‑40 is a relic of a different time. So why is it still the go-to for modern tools and machines?

What Is WD‑40 Actually Made For?

WD‑40 was invented by the Rocket Chemical Company in San Diego. Its original purpose? Protecting the outer shell of Atlas nuclear missiles from rust and corrosion during the Cold War. The formula (Water Displacement, 40th attempt) was never meant to lubricate gears, bearings, or precision tools. It was a metal-preserving solvent, not a functional lubricant.

Why WD‑40 Doesn’t Belong on Modern Tools

Fast forward 70 years: people are still spraying it on garage doors, CNC machines, 3D printers, and paper shredders. But the truth is, WD‑40:

• Evaporates quickly

• Attracts dust and grime

• Leaves behind sticky residue

• Lacks long-term lubrication

If your tools are modern, expensive, or require precision, using WD‑40 is doing more harm than good. You wouldn’t put motor oil on your computer fan. So why coat your micro-tolerance machinery in a product made for missile casings?

What Happens When You Use the Wrong Lubricant

Let’s say you use WD‑40 on your:

• Garage door track → It gums up, collects dust, and eventually binds the rollers.

• 3D printer rails → Residue interferes with print alignment and can cause overheating.

• Clock gears → Shortens life span, promotes oxidation over time.

• Marine gear → WD‑40 degrades under UV and salt conditions.

It’s not just suboptimal: it’s actively damaging your equipment.

A Modern Alternative: PlanetSafe Lubricants

PlanetSafe was engineered for the kinds of tools WD‑40 was never built to serve. Our formulas are:

• Non-toxic and residue-free

• Safe around pets, kids, and food prep areas

• Bonded to metal, not just coated

• Effective in extreme temperatures and dusty conditions

Instead of coating your tools with Cold War history, you’re protecting them with lab-tested, 21st-century science.

Ready to Upgrade? Here’s What to Use Instead

Try these PlanetSafe options:

• AiM Extreme Duty Lubricant – For garage doors, hinges, power tools

• CNC & 3D Printer Lubricant – For precision machinery and metal-on-metal motion

• Grandfather Clock Oil – For antiques and intricate mechanisms

• Paper Shredder Lube – Clean, clear, and safe for motor longevity

• Marine & Saltwater Lubricant – Built for corrosion-heavy environments
  
  ✅ Explore the full line of modern lubricants built for real-world use.
  
  Shop All Lubricants

WD‑40 Had Its Time

It protected missiles. It made history. But your tools deserve more than nostalgia. Ditch the Cold War spray can. Protect your gear with the science of now.

FAQs: WD‑40 vs. Modern Lubricants

Q: Is WD‑40 good for garage door tracks?
A: Not long-term. It evaporates quickly, attracts dust, and can cause buildup. PlanetSafe AiM is a better alternative for year-round performance.

Q: Can I use WD‑40 on CNC machines?
A: You can, but you shouldn’t. WD‑40 isn’t designed for micro-tolerance machinery and may degrade parts over time. Use PlanetSafe CNC Lube instead.

Q: What’s the best non-toxic alternative to WD‑40?
A: PlanetSafe lubricants are lab-formulated to be non-toxic, residue-free, and safe for both home and professional use.