Redex Bala - The Complete Guide to the Multi-Purpose Lubricant
Redex Bala: the multi-purpose lubricant guide
The spray that lubricates, penetrates, cleans, protects against rust and repels moisture at home, in the car and in the workshop. This guide covers the Bala formats, when each one fits, and when it's better to use a dedicated product instead of the multi-purpose spray.
What Redex Bala is (and why it works)
Redex Bala is a multi-purpose aerosol lubricant with a penetrating action and the ability to displace moisture. The formula is designed to quickly fix common problems: squeaks, seized bolts, light rust, damp contacts and dirt on metal parts.
Key benefits
- Lubricates mechanisms and reduces friction.
- Penetrates to free seized parts and bolts.
- Protects against rust and corrosion.
- Cleans residue and tape/adhesive marks.
- Repels moisture on metal surfaces and non-sensitive contacts.
The result: less noise, less resistance, less wear. And everything works again.
Available formats (and which to choose)
| Product | Price | Best for | Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bala 100 ml | €3.49 | Home kit/glovebox | Portable for emergencies |
| Bala 200 ml | €4.99 | Regular use at home/in the workshop | Good balance of price and quantity |
| Bala 400 ml (+100 ml) | €5.60 | Workshop/garage, frequent use | Best cost per ml |
| Bala Dual Action | from €5.99 | Precision in awkward spots and coverage over larger areas | Switches between targeted jet and wide spray without changing the cap; 200 ml = €5.99, 400 ml = €6.99 |
| Bala P.L.P. 200 ml | €3.69 | Bolts, nuts and parts seized by rust | Penetrating oil, not multi-purpose; at the same 200 ml size it costs less than Bala |
Bala and Bala Dual Action are the multi-purpose sprays: they lubricate, clean, protect and repel moisture. Bala P.L.P. is something else - a penetrating oil focused on rust, designed to free nuts, bolts and corroded parts. At the same 200 ml size, it costs less than Bala because it does less: it only frees seized parts, it doesn't lubricate or clean like the multi-purpose spray. If you only need to free something seized, P.L.P. is enough; if you want one can for everything, Bala is the choice.
Redex Bala vs WD-40
Both do the same kind of job: they lubricate, penetrate and protect against rust. Want the full comparison, with price, formats and availability side by side? See the dedicated guide: Redex Bala vs WD-40: the full comparison.
21 tricks (step by step) for using Redex Bala
-
Stop doors and chairs squeaking
Spray onto the pivot/hinge, open and close 3-5 times to work the product in. Wipe off the excess. -
Free seized bolts and nuts
Apply, wait 5-10 min for the penetrating action, reapply if needed, then use the tool. -
Remove sticky tape/label residue
Spray, wait 1-2 min and wipe with a microfibre cloth. Ideal on glass/metal. -
Bring back shine and protection on tools
Clean off the dirt, apply a light mist and wipe over. Helps prevent rust. -
Free stuck zips
Spray onto a cotton bud and apply to the metal slider. Move it up and down. -
Rusty number plate screws
Spray, wait, use the right screwdriver. Avoid stripping the head. -
Protecting battery terminals and contacts (car)
With the car switched off, apply lightly to the terminals after cleaning; keeps surface moisture off. -
Loosen tap/garden fittings
Targeted spray and a 2-3 min wait. Repeat if needed. -
Silence furniture and chair castors
Spray onto the axle and turn the wheel a few times. -
Scissors and pruner maintenance
Remove sap residue, clean, apply a thin film and store. -
Metal drawer runners
Spray a very small amount onto a microfibre cloth and wipe along the metal runners (keep it off painted plastics). -
Gates and padlocks exposed to the weather (outdoors)
Apply to the external mechanism and shackle. For the inside of locks, use a dedicated lubricant (graphite/PTFE). -
Chains and steel cables (general use)
Spray, leave to work and remove the excess so it doesn't attract dust. -
Metal fan blades and (metal) window hinges
Spray onto the friction points and remove any excess. -
Tools after contact with salt water
Wash, dry, and apply a thin film to block oxidation. -
Removing “stripped” screws more safely
Once it has been applied and penetrated, use a good-quality screwdriver and steady pressure. -
Bike rims and bolts (not the chain)
Clean and protect frame bolts/nuts. Avoid braking components/discs. For the chain, use Chain Lubricant 125 ml instead. It's made for the job; multi-purpose Bala isn't. -
Engine bay fixings (non-sensitive plugs/connectors)
With everything switched off and cold, spray lightly to repel surface moisture. -
Shower curtain fittings/metal rails
Apply to the rail and metal runners so they glide effortlessly. -
Remove old paste/grease from metal
Spray, wait 1-2 min, and rub with a workshop cloth. -
Protect seasonal tools
Before storing, wipe over with a cloth leaving a light film; next season they're ready to use.
How to use it correctly
- Shake the can well.
- Test on an inconspicuous area, especially on sensitive plastics/paintwork.
- Apply directly. Use the targeted jet for precision and the wide spray for larger areas.
- Leave it to work for 2-10 minutes for penetrating action when needed.
- Remove the excess with a microfibre cloth so it doesn't attract dust.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Redex Bala remove rust?
It helps loosen light rust and protects the surface against further oxidation. For deep rust removal, use a dedicated rust remover and sandpaper/a wire brush.
What's the difference between Redex Bala and Bala P.L.P.?
Bala is the multi-purpose spray: it lubricates, cleans, protects and repels moisture. P.L.P. is a more specific penetrating oil, focused on freeing nuts, bolts and parts seized by rust. If you only need to free something rusty, P.L.P. (€3.69, 200 ml) is enough and costs less than Bala at the same size (€4.99). If you want one product for everything, Bala is the choice.
Can Redex Bala be used on locks and padlocks?
On locks and padlocks exposed to the weather, such as those on gates, yes: it protects the external mechanism from corrosion. For the inside of a lock, the fine part the key turns, use a dedicated graphite or PTFE lubricant instead; Bala can attract dust in that kind of tight mechanism.
Does it work on electrical contacts?
It helps repel moisture on simple metal contacts (switched off and cold). For sensitive electronics, use dedicated non-conductive cleaners.
Can I use it on plastics/paintwork?
In many cases yes, but always test on a hidden area first. Avoid polycarbonate and sensitive plastics. On waxed surfaces it can affect the finish.
How long does the protection last?
It depends on exposure (rain, salt, dust, friction). In harsh conditions, reapply regularly to maintain the protective layer.
Can I use Redex Bala on a bike or motorbike chain?
It isn't the right choice. A multi-purpose lubricant dries quickly and attracts dust to the chain. Use Chain Lubricant 125 ml, which is made for the job.
How do I choose the right format?
Occasional use at home: 100-200 ml. Frequent use/garage: 400 ml. Need precision + coverage? Choose Dual Action. Only need to free rusted parts? P.L.P. (200 ml, €3.69) is focused on exactly that and does the job.
Safety (CLP/GHS) & SDS
- Flammable aerosol: keep away from heat/flames/sparks. Do not pierce or burn, even after use.
- Use in a well-ventilated area and avoid inhaling the spray. Keep out of the reach of children.
- Avoid prolonged contact with skin/eyes. If in doubt, see the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) on the product page or request it from Plurifil.
Only need to free something seized? Try Bala P.L.P.. Tip: add a microfibre cloth to your basket for better results.
1 comment
Necessito da ficha de dados de segurança do spray bala. Não encontro no site.