The subject of door lock lubricants can be a puzzling one, often steeped in personal preferences and conflicting experiences. In this comprehensive guide, we aim to cut through the biases and provide you with valuable insights on choosing the right door lock lubricant, how to use it effectively, and why it matters. Whether you’re a homeowner, locksmith, or just someone seeking to maintain the security of your property, this guide has you covered.
What to look for in a lubricant
Before delving into the best door lock lubricants, it’s crucial to understand what makes a lubricant ideal for your locks. Here are the key characteristics to consider:
Dryness: Dry lubricants, as the name suggests, are not oil-based. Look for products labeled as “dry lube.” These spray-based lubricants may appear liquid at first, but they dry quickly, leaving no oily residue.
No Residue: Some lubricants, particularly graphite and oil-based ones, can leave lingering residues. Oil-based lubes attract debris, while graphite can clump and bind the lock, especially in humid conditions.
No Stains: Graphite and oil-based lubricants can leave stains on various surfaces. Oil-based lubes don’t dry quickly and can transfer staining residue between surfaces. Graphite, although dry, can still stain objects like clothing, carpets, and doors.
Best lubricant for door lock
In the locksmith industry, door lock lubricants are a subject of great discussion. Here are some of the top door lock lubricants that meet the criteria mentioned above:
- DuPont Teflon Lubricant: This product comes in a convenient squeeze bottle and uses an alcohol liquid base for quick drying, leaving minimal residue. It’s a dry lubricant that has impressed with its cleaning and lubricating capabilities.
- WD-40 Dry Lube: While standard WD-40 may not be recommended for door locks, the WD-40 Dry Lube PTFE Spray performs exceptionally well. It has outperformed some locksmith-recommended lubricants in documented tests, leaving lock cylinders and pin chambers cleaner.
- Lock Saver Lubricant: This product is highly reliable and is known for leaving no oily staining substance. It’s particularly suitable for outdoor locks in colder climates and offers cold temperature protection.
- Houdini Lock Lube: Houdini Lock Lube is a dry synthetic spray that doesn’t use graphite, silicon, Teflon, or oil. It offers anti-rust and anti-corrosion protection, making it an excellent choice for outdoor locks. It’s known for leaving no residue or staining.
The Problem With Oil-Based Door Lock Lubricant
While oil-based lubricants can temporarily resolve lock issues, they come with significant drawbacks. Over time, these lubricants attract dirt and dust, forming a sticky residue that can clog the lock mechanism. Furthermore, they can stain or discolor surfaces.
The Problem With Graphite Door Lock Lubricant
Graphite is highly effective as a door lock lubricant but can be messy. Overspray or over-application of graphite can lead to stains on various surfaces, and it’s challenging to control. Graphite can easily spread to the key and stain hands, pockets, or objects touched by the key.
How To Lubricate A Door Lock
Learning how to lubricate a door lock can save you from issues like keys getting stuck or the lock not working smoothly. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Apply the lubricant into the keyway.
- Insert and remove the key several times to distribute the lubricant.
- For faster results, apply lubricant directly to the key.
This method can also be used to lubricate a car ignition cylinder or fix a key stuck in the car ignition.
How To Lubricate A Combination Safe Lock
A combination safe lock that sticks or jumps can make it difficult to enter the correct combination. Here’s how to lubricate a combination safe lock:
- Apply the lubricant to the top of the combination wheel.
- Rotate the combination wheel while applying more lubricant.
- If safe bolts or handles are causing problems, apply lubricant as needed.
How To Lubricate A Padlock
Properly lubricating a padlock is essential, especially if rust is causing lock jams. Here’s how to lubricate a padlock:
- Apply lubricant to the lock body through the shackle holes.
- Jiggle the shackle and move the lock to work the lubricant into the lock body.
- For stubborn locks, apply lubricant into the drainage hole and all available crevices.
Final Words:
Knowing how to lubricate a lock and selecting the right door lock lubricant is crucial for maintaining the security and functionality of your locks. However, if lubrication doesn’t solve your issue, it’s essential to consult a professional locksmith. Effective lock maintenance can help you avoid costly lock replacements and ensure the long-term security of your property.
