Goo Gone Vs. WD-40: What’s The Difference?
As for flammability, Goo Gone’s no shrinking violet at 185°F – that stuff could fuel some Fourth of July pyrotechnics! WD-40’s lower flash point makes it a bit more garage-friendly to this grease monkey.
Goo Gone Vs. WD-40: Specs & Uses
🧪Materials Compatibility
Goo Gone: May soften certain coatings/waxes
WD-40: Safe for most rubbers, steels, fabrics. May soften some plastics/waxes
🆚Toxicity
Goo Gone: May cause skin irritation/sensitization. Aspiration hazard if swallowed.
WD-40: Generally low toxicity
🛠️Common Uses
Goo Gone can be used to lubricate bike parts: gears and chains; effective against grease, grime, gum, and tar; loosen rust-to-metal bonds; lubricate lawnmower parts: axles and springs.
WD-40 can be used to remove duct tape residue; eliminate sticky residue on denim; remove rubber square from Harley fender; and eliminate embedded tree sap stains from truck’s factory racing stripes.
Technical Info
My Hands-on Test of WD-40
✅Pros
Let me start by saying that WD-40 is not your typical oil or grease, but when used correctly, it’s absolutely fantastic. One of the standout features is the flip-up spray tube, which is a huge improvement. It allows for precise application and makes tackling various tasks a breeze.
Removing a Variety of Stains
Spills and stains happen, but getting them out doesn’t have to be impossible. An all-purpose cleaner like WD-40 can tackle many common household stains. Has your carpet or favorite pair of jeans been marked by splatters of coffee or ink? Spritz on this spray, let it sit briefly, and then wipe away those pesky spots.
From removing traces of lipstick on washable fabrics to lifting lingering tomato sauce stains off linens, WD-40’s solvent formula can make quick work of all kinds of staining culprits. It even takes on oil-based stains and that impossible line left behind in your toilet bowl. And if some hair dye accidentally ended up on your towel? WD-40 to the rescue. With its degreasing and stain-eliminating powers, this versatile cleaner can banish all sorts of marks from fabrics, upholstery, appliances, and more.
Tackles Stubborn Bolts
As someone who frequently repairs items around the house, I often encounter old rusted bolts that need to be loosened. WD-40 has never let me down in this regard. It effortlessly tackles those stubborn bolts, making my repair projects much easier.
Versatility
I’ve used it on locks, gate hinges, car and truck hinges, and more. It sprays on wet, and as the carrier evaporates, it leaves behind a dry, smooth film. The drying time depends on the temperature, but it’s generally quick. Unlike other spray lubricants, WD-40 doesn’t leave any oily residue, so you don’t have to worry about staining or damaging other items. Additionally, the can comes with a two-position nozzle, allowing for both conventional spraying and targeted application using the attached tube.
❌Cons
However, it’s important to note that while it provides light lubrication, it’s not a substitute for oil or grease.
The odor of WD-40 can be a bit strange, which is a minor drawback.
FAQ of WD-40
Q: Should I turn off my car engine before applying WD-40? If so, for how long should I wait before starting the car again?
A: It’s up to personal preference. You can use WD-40 with the engine on or off since it is not flammable. However, based on my experience, it is best to use it with the engine off.
Q: If WD-40 comes into contact with car paint, will it damage it?
A: Yes, it can damage car paint.
Q: Can WD-40 remove rust from concrete driveways?
A: It is primarily designed to remove grease, grime, gum, tar, and other sticky substances from various surfaces. While it can loosen rust-to-metal 
bonds, it is not specifically made to remove rust from concrete driveways. It is more effective for rust removal on metal surfaces.
Q: Is the actual lubricant in WD-40 made of teflon, ceramic, or graphite?
A: The lubricant in WD-40 is ptfe spray, which stands for polytetrafluoroethylene, commonly known as Teflon.
Q: Is this suitable for lubricating lawnmower parts such as plastic wheels, axles, springs, and hinges?
A: WD-40 is a specialty lubricant. For lawnmower applications, regular WD-40 may be more suitable. A recommended option for lubricating axles is silicone grease from a tube, as it tends to stay longer.
Q: Can WD-40 be used to lubricate a convection oven fan?
A: It is possible that WD-40 could work for lubricating a convection oven fan. However, there may be a residual scent left behind, which may not be desirable for use in food preparation areas.
Q: Will WD-40 help prevent rust on tools?
A: WD-40 can provide some rust prevention, but the original WD-40 might be more effective due to its ability to disperse water. Some individuals use a rag with spilled oil to clean their tools.
Q: Among the different products available, such as the new specialist spray, which one is recommended for lubricating and easing the opening of six white outdoor hurricane shutters?
A: The WD-40 Specialist Dry Lube with SMART STRAW SPRAYS 2 WAYS, 10 OZ is a suitable option for lubricating your hurricane shutters. It is a dry lubricant that does not attract dirt or debris and is water-resistant, ensuring it won’t wash away in the rain.
Q: Can this be used to repair non-stick pans? Does it dry black?
A: The Teflon coating used in non-stick pans is specially bonded to the underlying metal. The spray-on product does not have the same bonding capability and will not adhere to the metal surface. Therefore, it is not recommended to use WD-40 for repairing non-stick pans, regardless of the cost of a new pan.
Q: Can it be used as a spray lubricant on blades in Norelco shavers?
A: It is possible to use WD-40 as a lubricant on an electric shaver, but there may be a lingering scent left behind. This could be unpleasant after shaving.
Q: Can WD-40 be used to lubricate elbows and knuckles on an RV awning?
A: There doesn’t seem to be any reason why you couldn’t use WD-40 for applications on your RV. It has been successfully used to lubricate sliding window 
channels without leaving a greasy mess.
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My Hands-on Test of Goo Gone
✅Pros of Goo Gone
I remember the frustration of buying a dinnerware set with stickers on every piece, but Goo Gone came to the rescue and became a game changer for me. That was about 10 years ago, and I’ve been using it ever since.
Compared to WD-40: Removing Stains from the Carpet
Here’s how I cleaned up sticky tape residue from my client’s carpet.
- I started by spraying the spot with googon and scrubbing with a soft brush, then dabbed with a white towel.
- I continued the process until all the sticky residue was gone and rinsed with a little warm water.
- Some more sticky situations for this client because now she knows how to clean that up.
Time Saver
I highly recommend Goo Gone because it saves you a lot of time and aggravation. While I’m sure there are other uses for it, I primarily use it to remove stickers, and it works like a charm every time.
It’s also versatile enough to remove label glue easily, which is a bonus for my diamond painting hobby. I have different-sized jars for my collection of beads, and Goo Gone helps me remove the residue left behind when I take off the labels.
In addition to stickers and label glue, Goo Gone is also effective at removing tape residue 
(See also: goo gone vs acetone ). I had to put some muscle behind it to get the sticky residue off, but it did a great job. It doesn’t have an odor and dries clear, leaving no greasy look once it dries.
Lastly, I can’t forget to mention that Goo Gone works wonders on removing tough stickers from surfaces like cars. I had a stubborn sticker on my white car, and Goo Gone removed it with no issues at all. No more goo, it’s gone!
❌Cons of Goo Gone
You should note that it does have a strong smell, which might be an issue for those who are sensitive to strong odors.
FAQ of Goo Gone
Q: Have you ever used Goo Gone to eliminate the sticky residue left by duct tape on denim?
A: One effective method is to apply the product onto a clean, soft cloth and gently dab it onto the denim surface. It might require multiple applications to completely remove the adhesive. Ensure that you wash the denim thoroughly afterward, using extra laundry detergent in hot water.
Q: Has anyone tried employing it on clothing and fabrics? What were the results? I specifically need it for my navy blue school pants.
A: Although I haven’t personally used it on fabric, I would suggest testing a small area or checking the product description to confirm its suitability for fabric use. Keep in mind that it may emit a slight odor, and you’ll need to wash the fabric after application. There is a possibility of leaving a spot, so caution is advised.
Q: Can Goo Gone effectively eliminate oil paint from paint brushes?
A: No, the Goo Gone Adhesive Remover is designed to tackle gum, glue, and sticky messes on approved surfaces. For removing oil paint from paint brushes, we recommend our Latex Paint Clean Up formula, which is specifically formulated to clean spills, splatters, brushes, and more. It works on wet and dried latex, acrylic, enamel paint, as well as art and craft paint, varnish, shellac, and caulk. However, it should not be used on silk, leather or suede, PVC, non-colorfast materials, or painted walls. To use the Latex Paint Clean Up, blot or wipe the unwanted spill with a clean cloth or paper towel. Apply the product directly to the affected area and allow a few minutes for it to start working. Finally, wipe with a clean cloth and repeat if necessary. You can find the product here: [insert product link].
Q: Can it effectively remove pine sap from a goat’s fur?
A: Goo Gone is not recommended for use on animal fur.
Q: Can I use it to remove a 1x1x1/2 inch rubber square from the fender of my Harley?
A: I have successfully used Goo Gone to remove stickers from various car bumpers and fenders. It is reported to be safe for all surfaces.
Q: Will it effectively eliminate embedded tree sap stains from my truck’s factory racing stripes? I’ve tried various solutions, but nothing seems to work!
A: Yes, it should work. However, make sure to wash the surface afterwards with warm soapy water.
Q: Tape was placed around my suitcase by customs, leaving behind tape residue. Will Goop be able to remove it without discoloring the black shell paint?
A: Although I haven’t specifically used it for that purpose, I have applied it to various surfaces such as containers, walls, and even hardwood floors without any issues of discoloration. In case of stubborn residues, I would suggest soaking a paper towel with the product, letting it sit, and then scraping off the glue residue. Repeat the soaking process if necessary. To be cautious, I recommend testing it on a discreet part of the suitcase to ensure it doesn’t cause discoloration.
Q: Can Goo Gone effectively remove adhesive residue from a name set on a soccer jersey?
A: Yes, you can definitely use it. However, we recommend conducting a pre-test on an inconspicuous area first. Avoid using it on silk, leather, suede, or rubber. To remove adhesive from clothing, follow these steps: 1. Apply Goo Gone to the stain. 2. Blot the area with a clean white cloth. 3. Launder the clothing separately using extra detergent.
Q: Can it remove paper stickers from a glass door?
A: I have personally used it to remove remnants of a bumper sticker from my car window. It worked for me after blotting and rubbing.
Q: Could this be used on a white truck? I have old tape stuck to my truck.
A: Yes, you can use Goo Gone on the paint of a white truck. Just make sure to wash the surface with warm soapy water afterward.
Q: Can I use this to remove window tint adhesive?
A: Goo Gone has proven effective in tackling various adhesives, although some may require a longer soaking time. While I’m not entirely certain about its effectiveness for removing window tint adhesive, having a bottle of Goo Gone on hand wouldn’t hurt. You may find it being useful for multiple purposes.
Q: Can it be used to remove hot glue (See also: e6000 vs hot glue) from brick walls?
A: We do not recommend using Goo Gone on brick surfaces. Due to the porous nature of brick, it would be challenging to remove the Goo Gone entirely.
Q: Can Goo Gone remove old Carmex stains from shirts?
A: It is highly likely. Goo Gone is versatile and works effectively on various surfaces.
Q: Would Goo Gone work for removing dried-up newspaper from a garage floor?
A: Yes, you can use it for this purpose. However, if the garage floor is porous, it may absorb the Goo Gone, making it more challenging to remove completely. I would recommend testing a small area first to ensure it doesn’t cause any unwanted effects.
I’m Ronald Stevens, a Mechanical Engineer obsessed with adhesives, glue, and all things sticky! My passion began in childhood when I’d always be the one playing with glue during arts and crafts. And I’d spend hours researching and experimenting. Happy reading, and remember: stick with the best, and you’ll never be stuck in a mess!
Feel free to contact me and join our discussion:
Can I use WD40 on computer keyboards?
WD-40 is described as a "dry" lube. It is best to shake the contents thoroughly before use. While it shares some similarities with WD-40, it is important to note that it may result in overspray. If you wish to use it on a keyboard, it is recommended to open the keyboard and apply the lube with a Q-tip specifically to…Read More
WD-40 is described as a “dry” lube. It is best to shake the contents thoroughly before use. While it shares some similarities with WD-40, it is important to note that it may result in overspray. If you wish to use it on a keyboard, it is recommended to open the keyboard and apply the lube with a Q-tip specifically to the slide-y parts beneath each key.
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