Will WD-40 remove water spots? Quick answer and a safer fix with August Race Liquid Rib

Quick Answer

• Yes, WD-40 can lift some water spots by loosening mineral residue and grime.
• It leaves an oily film that attracts dirt and offers no real protection on inflatable tube materials.
• If you try it, test a hidden spot, wipe lightly, then rinse well.
• A marine-specific cleaner like August Race Liquid Rib removes spots cleanly and leaves a dry, protective finish made for RIB tubes.

Short answer: what WD-40 does and why it sometimes works

WD-40 is a water-displacing spray with light solvents and oils. It can loosen those chalky rings after a salty run, so some spots fade fast. The tradeoff is residue. That slick film looks shiny at first, then turns into a dirt magnet, and it does not prevent new salt buildup. Some tube materials and seams do not love repeated solvent exposure either, so always test an inconspicuous area.

Quick safety notes if you do use it: keep away from open flame, avoid breathing the aerosol, and rinse thoroughly after wiping.

If it were my RIB, I would reach for August Race Liquid Rib instead. It is made for inflatable tubes, so you get spot removal without the oily feel.

Safer step-by-step: how to remove water spots without risking the tube

1. Rinse with fresh water to float off salt and grit. Use low pressure so you do not drive salt into seams.

2. Test any cleaner on a small hidden area first.

3. Mild route: mix marine soap with warm water. Work a soft brush or microfiber cloth in small circles, then rinse.

4. For stubborn mineral spots: use a 50/50 white vinegar and water mix. Apply briefly, agitate gently, then rinse well. Do not leave acids on coated or colored sections.

5. One-step route with August Race Liquid Rib (liquid_rib): apply per the label, agitate with a soft brush, then rinse. The tube should look clean and dry to the touch, not slick. Always follow the product label and test a small area.

Why August Race Liquid Rib outperforms WD-40 and DIY fixes

• Formulation: built for inflatable RIB tubes, so it breaks down salt film and grime without oily residue.
• Material safety: safe on common tube materials like PVC, Hypalon-coated fabrics, and neoprene trims when used as directed. WD-40 is not formulated for tube care.
• Protection: leaves a clean, conditioned finish that helps repel salt and dirt, so you scrub less compared with a one-off solvent wipe.
• Convenience: cleaner action plus lasting finish in fewer steps than soap, then vinegar, then a separate protectant.

Bottom line: WD-40 can make spots fade, but for inflatable RIB tubes, August Race Liquid Rib is the safer, cleaner choice.

Want more detail on prevention and deep cleaning? See our guide to saltwater buildup and tube grime for inflatable RIBs.

FAQs

Q: Is vinegar safe on Hypalon or PVC tubes?

A: In a short, diluted application, yes. Use a 50/50 mix of white vinegar and water, agitate gently, then rinse thoroughly. Do not let it sit on coated or colored sections for long.

Q: Can I use WD-40 on seams or glued areas?

A: I would avoid soaking seams. Solvent exposure can stress adhesives over time. If you try it, apply sparingly for a quick wipe, then rinse and check for changes before doing more.