WD-40 Is a Solvent, Not a Lubricant — Use the Right Product

WD-40 dissolves rust and displaces water, but it evaporates and leaves surfaces unprotected. Spraying it on a squeaky hinge gives temporary relief, then makes the problem worse as it dries out and attracts dust.

For squeaky hinges, use silicone spray. For metal-on-metal friction, use white lithium grease. For locks, use graphite powder. WD-40 is great at what it actually does — loosening stuck bolts and removing adhesive — but using it as a long-term lubricant creates more problems than it solves.