Can I Use WD-40 To Regrip My Golf Clubs? Full Guide

Regripping your golf clubs can be an expensive process, but there are ways to keep costs reasonable. Regripping worn golf grips at home is a great way to keep expenses down.

However, a DIY regripping project only save money in the long run if you do it correctly. Golfers are best off not to cut corners while regripping their clubs to save a few dollars.

The thriftiest of golfers may try to save by using golf grip solvent alternatives, such as WD-40, but is that a good idea?

Everyone wants to save money but sometimes cutting costs can cost you more in the end. On the other hand, there are budget friendly alternatives to grip solvents.

In the article below, we are going to cover all you need to know about regripping golf grip with WD-40. We will look at if WD-40 is a practical alternative to grip solvent, how to use WD-40 to regrip, as well as everything else you need to know. We have a lot to cover so let’s jump in.

Can You Use WD-40 To Install Golf Grips?

Standard golf grip solvent works in two ways. It lubricates the golf grip and golf grip tape for installation. It also helps the newly installed golf grip adhere to the golf club.

Grip solvent is excellent in performing both these tasks but it’s not the only tool for the job. While we would not recommend as our first option, you can use WD-40 to install your golf grips.

Traditional golf grip solvent’s main ingredient is naphtha. Naphtha is a hydrocarbon mixture that is also an ingredient in WD-40 which makes WD-40 a decent alternative golf grip solution.

Golf grip solvent does offer some distinct advantages over WD-40. Grip solvent is specifically designed for regripping clubs.

On the other hand, WD-40 is a lubricant. It is formulated to be slick. If excess WD-40 is applied to the grip, it can potentially make the club grip slippery during your round. All excess WD-40 will need to be remove before hitting the course.

For those looking to save, we would suggest not skimping on golf grip solvent. Instead, there are plenty of budget friendly golf grips that you can buy that are high quality while not breaking the bank.

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How To Install Golf Grips With WD-40

If you do choose to use WD-40 to install your golf grips, it is relatively straight forward. Installing golf grips with WD-40 is virtually identical to installing with golf grip solvent. Follow the instructions below for a detailed, step-by-step guide.

What You Will Need

  • New Golf Grip
  • Double Sized Golf Grip Tape
  • Utility Knife
  • WD-40
  • Bucket
  • Cloth For Drying

Step By Step Instructions

  1. Remove your old grip from the clubs you wish to regrip. Use a utility knife or scissors for best results. Be sure to always cut away from your body as the grip can be quite tough. Remove the leftover tape and wipe away any residue with a cloth.
  2. Measure the length of grip tape needed on the club shaft. Apply enough tape on the shaft to cover the length of the grip. Excess tape can be removed after installation. Also, make sure that the grip tape coves the diameter of the club shaft.  
  3. Open the end of your new grip with a golf tee and spray WD-40 inside it. Cover the golf grip with WD-40 as well. Once the inside of the grip is smothered, slide the grip over the top of the tape and fasten it in place.
  4. Leave the grip to dry. Leave the newly gripped clubs to dry and set in a warm room in your house.  Allow at least eight hours of dry time before heading out to the course or driving range.

Can WD-40 Damage Your Golf Clubs And Grips During Installation?

While WD-40 is not the conventional choice for golf grip installation, some individuals have found it to be a viable substitute in a pinch. Its lubricating properties can facilitate grip placement, but caution is necessary to avoid over-application, which may lead to a slippery surface. If using WD-40, a light and controlled spray can be effective.

However, it’s essential to recognize that specialized grip solvents are specifically designed for this task, offering optimal adhesion without the potential drawbacks of WD-40. Grip solvents evaporate quickly, leaving grips securely in place.

For consistent and worry-free installations, sticking to recommended grip solvents remains the preferred and reliable choice, ensuring the longevity of both the grips and the golf clubs.

What Are WD-40 Alternatives For Installing Golf Grips?

We would always recommend using golf grip solvent to regrip your clubs. It is not expensive and it is specially formulated to adhere golf grips to newly tapped golf clubs.

If you are in a situation where you cannot find or use golf grip solvent, below are suitable alternatives.

Final Thoughts

Golf can be an expensive sport. Between the equipment and cost to play, many golfers look for ways to save. While there are ways to cut cost, we would advise against using WD-40 to regrip your golf clubs. There really is now substitute better than golf grip solvent.

Regripping your golf clubs incorrectly will cause you more in the long run. Use the tips above to regrip your clubs correctly and to avoid extra costs.  

Once you regrip your new clubs, be sure to keep up with their maintenance Check out our article on 5 Easy Ways To Clean Your Golf Grips to make sure your golf grips last.

Hopefully you liked this article and found it informative. Check out our other blog posts if you liked this one!

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