Everything you need to know about lubricant buying guide: how to choose the right lubricant for any job, explained plainly.
Is the surface rubber or soft plastic?
Petroleum products degrade rubber.
Is it a precision mechanism, lock, small hinge, fine tool?
Use light machine oil (3-IN-ONE oil or similar).
Th in enough to penetrate small gaps.
Our picks
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Blaster
A PTFE dry-film lubricant for locks, hinges, tracks and cables that won't attract dust.
3-IN-ONE
Foam stays w here applied, does not run onto floor or wall surface like oil sprays
CRC
A dry PTFE spray for multiple surfaces that leaves a clean, low-friction film.
FAQ
WD-40 original formula is primarily a water displacer and penetrating oil. It provides short-term lubrication but evaporates quickly and leaves a residue that attracts dust. For long-term lubrication, WD-40's Specialist line (white lithium grease, dry PTFE, silicone) are the correct products.
Silicone lubricant is the correct choice for rubber seals, gaskets, and rubber-on-rubber contact. Petroleum-based lubricants (oil, grease, WD-40 original) swell rubber compounds over time, degrading seals. Silicone spray from 3-IN-ONE or WD-40 Specialist Silicone is inert on rubber.
Grease is oil thickened with a metallic soap (typically lithium or calcium). The thickener keeps the lubricant in place under load and prevents it from dripping away. Oil is thinner and penetrates tighter tolerances but requires reapplication more frequently. Use grease for bearings and high-load joints; use oil for fine mechanisms, locks, and precision tools.
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