Domestic use lubricants

Door hinges that squeak, drawers and sliding windows that stick, frozen locks, etc. Do they make you gnash your teeth? To solve these problems, plus many more, often all that's needed are a few drops of a spray lubricant. The secret is choosing the right one.

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Different types

Different types

There are all types of lubricants on the market: rust removers, dry lubricants, oils and greases.

A rust remover

A rust remover is used mainly to dissolve rust, but it is also makes an excellent cleaner. For example, to remove a rusted bolt, spray remover directly on the bolt, wait for approximately five minutes and unscrew. For a bicycle chain, apply the rust remover to clean the chain, then apply a thick lubricant (oil or PL-100). Another useful trick, try it to remove stuck-on store labels! It works perfectly and won't harm glass or plastic. WD-40 and Release All are two of the many brands of rust removers on the market.

A dry lubricant

A dry lubricant is a product that, although greasy when applied, dries in a few minutes and leaves a protective film. Since it dries rapidly, it doesn't attract dust, so there is no mess. This is why it is recommended for use on rubber, car door gaskets, handsaws, mitre saw saw sliders, window sashes, etc. It can also be used on balky wooden drawers, but cabinetmakers usually prefer floor wax because it is more durable. JIG-A-LOO is a brand of dry lubricant.

Locksmiths also use a dry lubricant, graphite, to free stuck door locks. This product, commonly found in stores, should be applied sparingly into the keyhole, as it is very messy. Graphite lubricant is composed of a fine black powder that no cleaner can remove, so it is wise to protect the door when graphite is applied.

Oil

Oil is a thick, liquid lubricant. It can be used on almost anything: bicycle chains, door hinges, etc. However, since oil traps dust, it must be applied more often. 3-IN-ONE, commonly called "sewing machine oil", is very popular.

Grease

Grease is used in objects that support heavy use, a garage door track for instance. It is also used in closed systems, sealed from dust. Kleen-flo grease now exists in aerosol, very practical for use in restrained spaces. A small piece of health advice; before using grease, rub your hands with hand lotion. The lotion will prevent the grease from entering your pores as it is toxic.

A penetrating lubricant

You can find on the market a penetrating lubricant, the PL-100 which is thick and very efficient. Its lubricating properties persist even after having removed residues, as it penetrates into metal. It is ideal for door hinges, even the fridge, hard to open pliers, ski bindings, etc., as it does not hold dirt and dust.
Finally, don't let drawers, windows, door hinges etc. get the better of you. Use the right lubricant and relax!
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