Most of us have a can of WD-40 within arm’s reach, tucked under a sink, in the garage, or in a toolbox, ready to silence squeaks, free stuck bolts, or protect metal from rust. It’s so familiar that we barely think about it—but do you know what “WD-40” actually stands for? The answer is far more fascinating than you might expect.
The story begins in 1953, deep in the heart of Cold War America. Engineers at the Rocket Chemical Company faced a pressing challenge: they needed a solution to prevent missile parts from rusting and failing. Moisture was the enemy, and failure was not an option. Chemist Norm Larsen led the effort, testing formula after formula, chasing a solution that could displace water completely and protect metal surfaces. Thirty-nine attempts failed. Then, on the fortieth try—success.
The name says it all: “WD” stands for Water Displacement, and “40” marks the fortieth formula. No marketing gimmicks, no catchy branding—just persistence, trial, and technical mastery. The product’s name is literally the story of its invention.
Once the engineers realized how effective the formula was, the secret spread quickly. Workers brought it home. Friends borrowed it. Everyone discovered its versatility: loosening rusted tools, silencing squeaky hinges, protecting metal, cleaning sticky messes, and freeing jammed mechanisms. From garages to kitchens, WD-40 became “the thing that fixes it.”
Over time, the Rocket Chemical Company rebranded as the WD-40 Company, reflecting the product’s shift from military tool to household essential. Today, WD-40 is sold in over 170 countries, trusted by mechanics, homeowners, cyclists, and DIYers alike. Its formula has remained consistent for decades, a rare constant in a world of constant updates and rebrands.
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