WD-40: The Golden State's Forbidden Elixir
A Lubricating Love Affair Gone Wrong
You’ve probably heard the old adage, “If it moves and it shouldn’t, use duct tape. If it doesn’t move and it should, use WD-40.” Well, in most of the United States, that’s gospel. But in the land of sunshine and silicon, California, WD-40 is as elusive as a unicorn at a cat convention.
The Golden State's Great WD-40 Drought
So, what gives? Why can’t Californians enjoy the miracle of WD-40? It’s a tale as old as time (or at least as old as the California Air Resources Board). You see, California has some of the strictest environmental regulations in the country. And while this is generally a good thing (clean air, clear skies, and all that jazz), it has had some unintended consequences.
One of the villains in this story is VOCs, or Volatile Organic Compounds. These are chemicals that evaporate easily and contribute to air pollution. Now, WD-40, in its original formula, contains a fair amount of these pesky VOCs. So, in a valiant effort to keep the Golden State golden, California decided to put the kibosh on the original WD-40 formula.
WD-40: A California Comeback Story
Fear not, WD-40 fans of California! The company wasn’t about to let its loyal customers down. They went back to the drawing board and created a special, VOC-compliant formula just for the Golden State. So, while you might not find the classic blue and yellow can on every shelf, you can still get your WD-40 fix.
But wait, there’s more!
It’s important to note that this whole kerfuffle only affects the classic WD-40 formula. The WD-40 company makes a whole bunch of other products, many of which are already compliant with California’s regulations. So if you’re looking for something specific, like WD-40 Specialist or one of their other specialty products, you might be in luck.
How to Navigate the WD-40 Wilderness in California
So, you’re a Californian with a squeaky hinge? Fear not! Here are a few tips to help you navigate the WD-40 wilderness:
- How to find WD-40 in California: Look for the California-compliant formula. It might be a little harder to find than the original, but it’s out there.
- How to use WD-40 effectively: A little goes a long way. Don’t overspray!
- How to choose the right WD-40 product: Consider your specific needs. WD-40 makes a variety of products for different applications.
- How to be environmentally friendly: Dispose of WD-40 containers properly and avoid overspray to reduce your impact on the environment.
- How to appreciate California's clean air: While it might be inconvenient not to have the original WD-40 formula, remember that California’s strict environmental regulations contribute to the state’s beautiful air quality.