I've been using WD-40 all wrong — it's actually an amazing household cleaner

1. In the kitchen

WD-40 is excellent for cleaning stainless steel appliances like refrigerators, dishwashers, and ovens. Spray a light coating on the surface, then wipe with a clean microfiber cloth to remove fingerprints, smudges, and water spots. The result is a shiny, streak-free finish that looks freshly polished.

WD-40 also tackles rust spots on stainless steel and leaves behind a protective coating that helps prevent future scuff marks and fingerprints from adhering as easily.

Keep in mind not to use WD-40 on surfaces that will touch food directly, such as cutting boards, countertops where you prepare food, or the inside of your refrigerator. WD-40 is not food safe and should only be used on appliance exteriors and other non-food-contact surfaces.

2. In the bathroom

In the bathroom, WD-40 tackles some of the toughest cleaning challenges. It also cuts through scum on shower doors and tile really effectively — just spray, wait a few moments, and wipe clean.

For clogged or gunked-up shower heads, spray WD-40 on the fixture and wipe away buildup. The bonus of using WD-40 on shower heads is that it helps deter future hard water and calcium deposits from forming, keeping water flowing freely.

You just don't want to use WD-40 on bathtub surfaces, shower floors, or anywhere else that could become slippery when wet. Banana-peel falls are only funny in the movies, so stick to using WD-40 on fixtures and walls rather than walking surfaces.

3. In the living room

WD-40 is a lifesaver after parties or large family gatherings when walls and furniture inevitably get marked up. It easily removes greasy fingerprints and shoe scuff marks from painted walls — spray lightly on a cloth (not directly on the wall to avoid over-saturation), then gently wipe the marks away.

It's even useful for removing crayon art that creative children leave on walls. The solvent properties of WD-40 break down the wax in crayons without damaging paint underneath when used carefully.

Any sticky residue left on furniture by spilled drinks, tape, or food can also be cleaned using WD-40 and a cleaning cloth. Spray the residue, let it sit for 30 seconds to penetrate, then wipe clean. Alway test a small, inconspicuous area first before using it more widely.

4. In the bedroom

WD-40 works wonders on sticky residue on mirrors and wooden furniture, things like sticker remnants, tape adhesive, or mystery sticky spots come right off with a spray and wipe. It's particularly effective on dresser mirrors where hairspray overspray creates a filmy buildup that regular glass cleaner struggles with.

Don't use WD-40 on upholstery, fabric, or bedding because it can create oily stains that are difficult or impossible to remove.

You can also use WD-40 on wood or laminate flooring to remove stubborn scuff marks that regular mopping won't touch. Spray a small amount on a cloth, rub the scuff mark gently, then wipe clean with a damp cloth to remove any residue.

This refreshes the floor's appearance and makes it look newly cleaned. Just patch test first, use sparingly and wipe up excess thoroughly to avoid creating slippery spots.