Things You Can and Can’t Use Water-Displacing Spray on

By Editor | April 15, 2021 |

Though water-displacing sprays seem like miracle products, you should know how to use them. The degreasing and lubricating qualities are valuable, but if you use them on the wrong items, this spray can trigger a breakdown or problem that can prove difficult or impossible to fix. Knowing the things you can and can’t use water-displacing spray on will allow you to get the best use out of it.

Can

This product is meant to penetrate, lubricate, and protect against corrosion. Make sure you use it on the proper items.

Paneling: It can remove glue residue from paneling.
Tile flooring: You can eliminate dry paint on tile flooring.
Plumbing joints: You can penetrate and loosen rust or stuck plumbing joints.
Bolts: You can loosen rusted bolts.
Tools: You can protect power tools against corrosion and keep them lubricated.

Can’t

Though this type of product seems like a fix for many things, you can’t use it on everything. Water-displacing spray is hygroscopic, which means it attracts and holds water molecules.

Firearms: Though it prevents corrosion for some products, it may cause rust if used to clean or maintain a firearm. In paintball guns, it can melt the gun’s seals.
Chains: Though water-displacing products having lubricating properties, they aren’t necessarily lubricants. You shouldn’t use them on drive chains of any type or bike chains. The fluid will attract dirt and use its degreasing abilities to remove necessary chain lubricant.
Door hinges: It may help door hinges eliminate squeaks, but it will attract dust, clogging it over time.
Shredders: Shredders need lubrication, but water-displacing spray should not be used as a shredder oil substitute. The formula can cause buildups and clogs with paper dust, damaging the shredder.

There are many advantages to water-displacing products. Knowing the things you can and can’t use water-displacing spray on will allow you to handle all of the items and tasks you encounter. Though this product type is incredibly beneficial, it’s best when used properly.