Sliding wardrobes, glass doors onto a balcony or patio, and sliding windows all save space, but they need looking after. Dust, sand, pet hair and crumbs build up in the tracks, the rollers dry out, and the panel starts to judder, squeak or jam completely. On balconies and patios, rainwater, pollen and winter frosts add to the problem.
Cleaning and the right lubricant solve most of these issues. The key is to match the product to the material of the track.
What you will need
Important: Keep the product off the glass and wipe off any drips immediately. Test on a hidden area before treating plastic and rubber parts. Use a stable stepladder when inspecting the top track.
Step 1
Vacuum the track
To free the panel, first remove everything that stops it rolling. Use a vacuum with a crevice tool to pull dust, sand, leaves and debris out of the bottom track, the corners and the areas around the rollers. If the panel can be moved, clean the whole length of the track, not just the visible part.
Step 2
Wash the track
Wipe the track with a sponge and soapy water to loosen stuck-on dirt the vacuum missed. Use an old toothbrush in narrow grooves and corners. Dry it thoroughly and let it dry completely: lubricant does not adhere well to a damp surface.
Step 3
Lubricate the tracks and rollers
Choose the product by material and location. For plastic tracks, rubber seals and brush strips, and for balcony and patio doors, WD-40 Specialist Silicone is ideal: it does not attract dirt and protects against moisture. For metal tracks on indoor sliding wardrobes, WD-40 Multi-Use applied to the rollers with the WD-40 Smart Straw is enough.
Heavily loaded outdoor metal tracks, such as those on heavy patio doors, are best treated with WD-40 Specialist White Lithium Grease. After applying, slide the panel end to end several times and wipe off the excess.
Step 4
Check every part
If the panel still sticks after cleaning and lubricating, inspect each component. Is the track bent or damaged? Do the rollers turn freely, or are they worn? Do the handle and lock work? Do not forget the top track, which also collects dust.
Any damaged part needs replacing. Ask the manufacturer or a hardware supplier for the correct spare.
Step 5
Adjust the panel height
Many sliding systems have an adjusting screw on the rollers, usually in the edge of the panel. If the panel drags at the bottom or sits crooked, turn the screws until it runs level and its frame no longer touches the track. Make small turns and test the movement after each one.
Tip: Avoid thick greases on indoor tracks: they collect dust and turn into an abrasive paste. A thin film of silicone lasts longer and stays clean.
What next
Clean and lubricate wardrobe tracks every six months, and balcony and patio doors and windows in spring and autumn. Before winter, treat the rubber seals with WD-40 Specialist Silicone so the panels do not freeze shut.
These uses come from the experience of WD-40 users in many countries. Always follow the instructions and warnings on the product label.
More guides in «How to use».