Any encounter with a sticky lock is annoying, right? A smooth, fresh, and easy to open door lock is always the best thing to have on your door. If you’re stuck with noisy and sticky door locks, lubrication is a must. To find the best lubricant for door locks, you should start finding well-reviewed, reasonably pricy, and dirt-repellent ones. And, we’re here to help you out in this quest.
This guide contains all the necessary information you require for buying the best lubricant. Based on our research and comparison, we picked some of the most influential and valuable lubricants for your door’s locks. Let’s hop into the discussion.
What Kind of Lubricant for Door Locks?
There are a few kinds of lubricants in the market. Silicone spray, liquid lubricant, and dry lubricant are the major ones. Where silicone spray is considered for non-metal objects, their dry lubricant is the best choice for metal works. For door locks, dry lubricant is the most effective and cost-efficient option that you can avail. Graphite lubricant is available in the market. Graphite or powdered lubricant is helpful for two reasons.
- Heat resistant
- Dirt repellent
Why are heat resistant and dirt repellent essential features for a lubricant for door locks? Because of safety and durability. Graphite or dry lubricants can tolerate up to 450 degrees Celsius. The continuous use of door locks and internal mechanical tools raises the temperature. When you apply such a heat-resistant lubricant, it’s going to prevent galling.
The temperature tolerance is also helpful for long-term usage. Low friction gives the highest durability. Therefore, you need not worry about buying another door lock in years. The next benefit of using graphite or dry lubricant on door locks is the dirt and dust-resistant features. If dust gets inside the lock’s mechanical and moving parts, it gets sticky and becomes extremely difficult to clean again.
Dry lubricant helps against dirt and dust entrance. It creates a layer that does not let dust enter into the lock’s moving parts. And, this is another reason to choose dry lubricants over liquid ones. However, silicone spray and liquid lubricants are suitable for some surfaces too. These two kinds can be applied for emergency purposes.
The only issue they have with door locks is dirt and dust-resistant features. This is not available when you choose from either of them.
Best Lubricant For Door Locks Reviews
There are plenty of options in the market when you need the best lubricant for locks. But not all the options are capable of doing the required job. You must choose the best to get the best result. Here are our picks.
1.Houdini Lock Lube
Specifications
- Weight: 11.8oz
- Water Resistant: Yes
- Apply Setting: Straw
- Dirt Resistant: Yes
It justifies the brand name, “Houdini.” This is a spray lubricant without any existence of graphite, grease, oil, or silicone. It penetrates and opens the jam most appropriately. The package comes in 11.2oz weight. That’s sufficient for applying on all the door locks at your home. Houdini lock lube cleans the internal moisture and gives a fresh cleansing to the moving parts of the lock.
Another important factor regarding the lube is it does not hamper paint. If you’re spraying the lubricant on the lock, it is necessary to ensure that it’ll not interfere with the door or door’s color. Grease or petroleum and graphite-based lubricants can create a stain on paints. This one is free from such issues. And, if you’re concerned about cleaning up extra applied lubes, this one requires only a simple cloth to wipe out.
If you’re looking for a safe, durable, and convenient lubricant to use on jammed door locks, choosing this would be a perfect decision. The quantity is well enough to apply in a house for an entire year.
Highlighted Features
- Easy to spray on door locks for making the efficient use of the lubricant
- Highly effective for removing internal jams within a minute
- The lubricant is easy to clean, and it takes a rag to wipe out excess ones.
- The interior volume of the lubricant is sufficient for household uses
- Not only to open jammed or sticky door locks but also to increase the durability of door locks, the lubricant is perfect
- For commercial usage, these door locks can support a lot.
Downside
- The package does not include a straw with it.
2.3-IN-ONE Lock Dry Lube
Specifications
- Weight: 2.5oz
- Water Resistant: Yes
- Apply Setting: Spray setting
- Dirt Resistant: Yes
The next option is a dry lube from the WD-40 store. This dry lube is mainly effective for sticky locks and jammed or clogged moving parts inside the lock. It comes in a package of 2.5oz as it requires a tiny amount to clean the entire door lock’s jam. The lubricant dries fast, and it’s always beneficial for quick uses. You cannot wait a long time to get it dried. Instead, apply and use the lock right away.
The dry lube includes a straw, one of the most premium style straws found in the market for lubricants. The straw can reach narrow places and corners of the locks. Whether you can see the internal parts or not, the straw will work just fine to wipe out the internal clogs. It will give you a satisfactory experience with door locks.
The lube will resurrect the door lock from corrosion and rust by reaching the narrow spaces and creating a clean lubricating process. Also, drying quickly helps you to use the door lock for fixing locks promptly.
Highlighted Features
- The lubricant is safe to any surface, including wood, metal, and plastic. No need to worry about stains.
- Corrosion-protective feature added to make door locks durable for a long time.
- It takes less than 40 seconds to dry entirely and make the lock clean again.
- The aerosol formula is a unique feature to ensure the maximum effectiveness of the dry lube.
- Different spray settings are included for unsticking both interior and exterior of the lock.
Downsides
- Does to applicable to polycarbonate, which makes it difficult for some vehicle door locks
- The package size is small, and it affects commercial usage
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3.Tri-Flow TF20006 Superior Lubricant
Specifications
- Weight: 12oz
- Water Resistant: Yes
- Apply Setting: Straw
- Dirt Resistant: Yes
Tri-Flow is a renowned name in the industry of lubricants. This product comes in aerosol formula with a 12oz package. The lubricant is valuable and applicable on different surfaces and locks. For wide spraying and narrow spraying, the product is highly recommended.
A significant feature of the lubricant is its petroleum-based ingredients. Premium petroleum ingredient has been used in the lubricant. This is to assure the most efficient use of the product along with longevity. It can tolerate extreme temperatures so that the lock will last long, and friction will be low because of applying this lubricant. It is helpful against humidity, and this makes the lubricant a proper fit for winter.
The lubricant is highly effective against moisture, and it’ll prevent corrosion. This leads the door lock to have a long-lasting lifespan. Moreover, you need to consider its temperature and water resistance feature more closely. These are essential to use the door lock for long period. Once you pick the lube, it’ll be easier to generate consistent performance from door locks.
Highlighted Features
- The aerosol formula makes it easy to apply to door locks.
- Petroleum used in the lubricant is premium, and this cleans humid as well as moisture
- The heat-resistant feature allows for getting more extended durability of door locks.
- In comparison with WD-40, this one has a better manufacturing process and corrosion-protection
- It goes inside narrow places to displace clogs and jams. For home maintenance, the lubricant can be broadly helpful.
Downside
- The petroleum can affect the outer surface of the door locks, and it hampers user-convenience
4.DuPont Teflon Easy Entry Lock Lubricant
Specifications
- Weight: 2oz
- Water Resistant: Yes
- Apply Setting: Unique Tip
- Dirt Resistant: Yes
Teflon lubricants should be counted while looking for an effective and efficient lubricant to free your sticky door locks. This one from DuPont is equipped with some extra benefits for door locks. It works perfectly on house doors, office doors, and vehicle doors. If doors are making a squeaking sound, it’s time to apply the lube.
The lubricant prevents corrosion and gives a long-lasting performance. To maintain the best shape of your door locks, you can choose the lubricant. In terms of design, this is called “easy entry” for a reason. The unique tip above the package reaches a different portion of the door lock.
You’ll understand its necessity while applying the lube on vehicle door locks. There are some narrow corners in those doors. Without this specially designed tip, it won’t be possible to use. Again, Teflon is well-known for heat resistance. This is why wear and tear inside the lock will be reduced after applying the lubricant correctly.
Moreover, DuPont is renowned manufacture having years of research and development experience in the field of lubricant. The design of the entry lock shows how the brand has promoted efficiency and cleanliness through the entire process. After applying, if there’s any residue, wipe it out. This goes quickly, and it doesn’t create any stain on the painting.
This feature makes it compatible with use on any surface. The best result comes from the best application of this lubricant.
Highlighted Feature
- Highly effective for preventing corrosion on door locks
- Removes squeaking noise in a minute
- The tip is uniquely designed to reach hard corners and narrow portions within the lock
- It is dust repellent for giving a longer lifespan and better durability to door locks.
Downside
- The lubricant is not waterproof, and the lock may lose its effectiveness in water.
5.WD-40 Specialist Water Resistant Silicone Lubricant
Specifications
- Weight: 11oz
- Water Resistant: Yes
- Apply Setting: Special Attached Straw
- Dirt Resistant: Yes
Silicone lubricants are used in different mechanical devices, including door locks. WD-40 Silicone Lubricant is probably the most familiar among lubricants because of WD-40’s reputation in the field. The first noticeable factor in the lubricant is its straw functionality. An attached straw with the package can reach different places inside the lock. When you start applying the lubricant, it’ll reach and remove stickiness.
And it takes less than 40 seconds to dry. Apply and use the lock within a minute. A quick-drying feature has been added to make it a quick use to remove moisture. The lubricant does not leave residue, and it’s a significant reason for choosing the lubricant. If you dislike a messy surface after applying lubricant, pick this silicone lubricant without any second thought.
Different spray setting with the straw is to provide maximum coverage from the lubricant. Either the wide area or the narrow space, the lubricant is usable without any issue. You must consider this as a wise pick because of the water-resistant feature. WD-40 says it’s one of the best lubricants in the market, having such a unique feature to get rid of stain and corrosion. Waterproofness gives a better privilege for outdoor doors.
If your car doors are clogged and it’s getting noisy, a tiny amount of WD-40 silicone lubricant will remove both issues. It reaches every part of the door lock. As a result, it grows effectively and provides a better outcome for the lock. To avoid any residue, it is best to choose a precise spray setting. This does not leave any mess on the lock surface.
Highlighted Features
- The lubricant is highly heat resistant because of the silicone compound. It prevents extra wear and tear of internal mechanisms.
- Waterproofness protects from rust and corrosion.
- The straw is a principal feature of the lubricant to avoid overuse.
- It is handy for commercial usages and heavy usage.
Downsides
- Not recommended for outdoor locks as silicone lubricant cannot protect from dust.
6.American Grease Stick Graphite Lubricant
Specifications
- Weight: 1.92oz
- Water Resistant: Yes
- Apply Setting: Straw
- Dirt Resistant: Yes
If you need to access all the great lubricant features, American grease stick graphite lubricant should be the one. It is a dry and powdered lubricant that comes with an intelligent package.
The graphite lubricant is odorless. You’ll not need to worry about a foul smell or odor after applying the lubricant. Graphite is a non-toxic chemical compound. The carbon-based chemical won’t bother your surroundings. This graphite lubricant is usable on any door lock to prevent corrosion and rust. A jammed door lock or jammed moving parts will get smoothened in a minute. After unclogging the door lock, it will support for more than a year.
Sometimes, lubricants cannot protect against rainwater or dust. In both cases, it will prevent internal parts from excess wear and tears. The durability, as well as safety, is assured from the lubricant. The lubricant does not include any petroleum compound or grease. If you’re worried about being messed up with grease, choose the lubricant without any doubt. This does not disappoint your needs.
Highlighted Features
- The post-application benefits of the lubricant are the main reasons to use it on locks.
- It prevents corrosion and rust.
- The waterproofness feature makes the lubricant usable at any month of the year.
- This lubricant dries quickly and does not create any odor.
- The non-toxic quality is also a factor for choosing the lubricant for your door locks.
Downside
- AGS graphite lubricant is not the best lubricant for commercial usage.
Houdini Lock Lubrication
Door locks can be a hassle to open, especially when they start to rust. Fortunately, Houdini Lock lubrication is the perfect solution. It’s non-toxic and easy to apply, so you can easily keep your doors unlocked. Plus, it works well with other locks so that you can use it on all your doors. Don’t let your locks keep you from enjoying your home – invest in Houdini Lock lubrication today, and keep your doors unlocked and secure.
Factors to Consider While Choosing Lubricant for Door Locks
Door locks are differently designed than regular locks. They are fixed indoors and require proper maintenance. If these locks get stuck or clogged, or jammed, this may ruin your life. And, the best solution is to apply lubricant.
But, not all lubricant is correct for door locks. You’ll need to consider some factors and features to choose the lubricant that will work properly on these types of locks. Therefore, we have prepared an indicative list including factors to consider for selecting lubricants.
Temperature Resistance
We consider it as the most essential feature of a lubricant that is usable on door locks. Why? Temperature is the result of friction. Continuous use of door locks raises internal temperature. If a lubricant can resist high temperatures, it can prevent internal wear and tears easily. The lifespan of the lubricant will increase as such a result.
Whatever the lubricant is, read the package to determine the maximum temperature that the lock can cope with. A high temperature-resistant lubricant, for example, graphite lubricant, can serve you for a long time. It’ll not lead the internal parts to wear and tear that easily. The longevity increases as a result.
Type
You cannot just buy and apply any greasy and oily lubricant to remove noise or jams from door locks. The selection and consideration of lubricant type are essential.
There are Teflon, silicone, petroleum, graphite, and dry lubricants available in the market. All of them are capable of being used on doors. But, you must decide based on their effectiveness on door locks. Teflon is heat protected but toxic compound. Petroleum-based lubricants are messy and complicated to clean the residue. Silicone does not apply to all types of metals.
Graphite and dry lubricants are the best fit according to their features of protection against dirt, dust, and corrosion. It works perfectly on any surface. Again, graphite is known for high heat resistance. Though the price is high, the benefit will pay it off.
Straw and Spray
The next considerable factor is the straw setting and spray. Apart from a few ones, the majority of the renowned lubricant brands launch each package with straw and different spray settings. Now, straw is required for reaching into different portions and corners of the door lock. As we stated earlier, door locks are fixed and non-removable. You cannot risk breaking down the door to apply lubricant, can you?
Straw is handy as it can go far and make sure that the clog is removed. This is why purchasing a lubricant with a straw is always a wise and efficient option. The next one is a spray. Multiple spray setting is essential for avoiding residue. It’s also useful to prevent any kind of debris by applying the spray. Comprehensive or precise spraying will fulfill your needs precisely.
Water, Dust, and Dirt Resistance
Door locks, both at the house and in vehicles, are open to the outdoor environment. Rainwater, dust, and dirt are very common in the external environment. Therefore, lubricants will need to protect the door locks against these three issues. Read the package properly and find out whether the lubricant can protect against water, dust, and dirt or not. It is essential in terms of increasing durability and safety at the same time.
Quantity and Purpose of Use
The last considerable factor is the quantity of lubricant in the package and its purpose of use. If you’re going to use it for home maintenance, the amount should be sufficient for matching the requirements. For construction or a high volume of usages, the quantity will differ too. By considering price, quantity, and purpose, choose one from the list.
Tri-Flow Superior Lubricant
Door locks can be a hassle, especially if the lubricant stops working or the locks start to rust. Tri-Flow Superior Lubricant is the perfect lubricant for these situations. It has a high viscosity, which means it stays in place during intense activity.
Additionally, it has a corrosion-resistant formula that prevents locks from getting rusty and clogged. Plus, it formulas to avoid rust and corrosion, making it a long-lasting option. So, if you’re seeing for the best lubricant for door locks, Tri-Flow Superior Lubricant is a perfect choice.
3-IN-ONE Lock Lube
Do you always struggle to get your door locks to work smoothly? If so, you’re not alone. But worry no more. Thanks to the 3-in-one lock lubricant, you can finally get the lubrication your locks need and deserve.
Plus, the price point is perfect for those on a tight budget. The formula works well on metal and plastic door locks, so you can be sure that it’ll provide the lubrication your locks need to perform smoothly. Plus, the lubricant is non-toxic and safe to use around children and pets, making it an excellent choice for any home.
Lock Saver Synthetic Lubricant
Door locks can be painful, especially when the lubricant doesn’t work. That’s why using a suitable lubricant for the job is essential. Lock saver synthetic lubricant formulas protect the finish on your door so you don’t have to worry about damage. It comes in various sizes and can easily apply with a spray bottle or sponge.
The formula is water-based, so it doesn’t depart from any messy remaining parts like silicone lubes. So, lock up and enjoy your peace of mind knowing that your door locks are lubricated and protected.
CRC Dry Graphite Lube
CRC Dry Graphite Lube is the perfect choice if you’re looking for the best lubricant for door locks. It’s safe to use around children and pets, and the formula is water-based, which makes it easy to clean up. Plus, it offers long-lasting protection against rust and corrosion. So, if you’re seeing for the best lubricant for your locks, CRC Dry Graphite Lube is perfect.
Types of Lock Lubricants
Keeping your door locked is important for security reasons. But what happens if the lock starts to slip? Not to worry, there are lubricants available to help! Silicone-based lubricants are the best for locks because they provide a long-lasting seal and are safe for wood.
Petroleum-based lubricants, on the other hand, can damage the wood. So, if you’re looking for a lock lubricant that will keep your door locked for an extended period, silicone-based lubricants are a perfect choice. Another essential thing to put in mind is the type of lubricant. Silicone-based lubricants are safe for wood, while petroleum-based lubricants are not. Make sure to read the label before using the lubricant to make sure you choose the right type for the lock you’re using.
How to Clean Door Locks?
Cleaning door locks regularly increases durability and longevity. Once in a while, you need to perform the following steps.
Unscrew the Lock
You’ll need a flat-headed screwdriver to unscrew the door lock. Bring out the door lock after unscrewing the outer section.
Use Cotton Swab
Dip a cotton swab into rubbing alcohol (available in hardware stores). Now, clean every portion of the lock with the swab. You might need more than one swab for proper cleaning. Make sure you apply alcohol in narrow corners. Some places are impenetrable. Avoid those areas.
Keyhole Cleaning
To clean the keyhole, insert the key and lock it. Now, apply alcohol with an eyedropper. Also, you can consider a straw to use alcohol. Then, unlock with the key, and this will open certain areas. Use a toothbrush to remove dirt and dust. It’ll open up different portions. Use the eyedropper to clean again.
Spray Lubricant
Here comes the most critical phase. Apply the lubricant in every area inside the lock and outside the lock. This is to remove clogs and jams from the internal mechanical parts. You can also use a piece of clean cloth to apply lubricant. Clean excess lubricant after use.
Screw the Lock
Finalize the cleaning process by reattaching the lock on the door. If you use proper lubricant, the lock will get smooth, and it’ll increase the longevity of the lock.
How To Lubricate a Door Lock?
If you just need lubricating the door lock, we have simple steps for you. Applying these steps correctly will help eliminate clogs and jams on doors when you have no time to clean before lubricating; use this process to lubricate.
Blow Dust
The first step is to blow out dust from the lock. To do this, you’ll need a blower. Keep blowing air inside the keyhole. This removes internal dirt and dust from the lock. Blowing correctly is essential as the effectiveness of the following steps will depend on this.
Spray Cleaner
The next step is after blowing dust is to spray cleaning material on the keyhole. This smoothens the pathway and keyhole. Spraying the cleaner is also helpful for cleaning the lock’s surface.
Apply Lubricant
Now, simply apply dry lubricant to the door lock. Here, you must remember to attach a straw with the lubricating can for precise application. This will unclog the door lock. And, you’re done! Simple ways to lubricate the door without a deep cleaning. For deep cleaning, follow the previous section.
Final Thoughts
What have you decided? In the complete guide to getting the best lubricant for door locks, we provided different ideas. Dry and powdered lubricants are always the best option. Other ones in the list are also capable of clean and adequate lubrication. Door locks are prone to corrosion and rust.
Avoid any lubricant that does not prevent door locks from such cases. Choose one that is capable of protecting the lock from dust, water, dirt, and friction. It’ll save the lock for a long time. Pick the one from the list and get rid of annoying door locks.
FAQs
1.When should I Lubricate Door Locks?
Ans. If your keys keep sticking into the lock, it is time to check whether it is jammed or clogged. Jammed door locks require proper lubrication. Keyholes should be free from any clogging or jamming. Also, you may need to struggle to put the key inside the hole. This is the time you realize it requires lubricant.
2.How do you Loosen a Stiff Door Lock?
Ans. To loosen a stiff door lock, you’ll have to inspect the keyhole first. If you find any dirt or dust causing the stiff door lock, blow them with an air blower. After you blow up, apply cleaner and a dust-protected lubricant. This will do the job just fine.
3.How do I make my Door locks Open Smoothly?
Ans. You can see two screws on the door locks. These keep the lock attached to the door. If you’re up for deep cleaning, use a simple flat-headed screwdriver to open the door lock smoothly. Also, you may need to use some penetrating oil to open the lock smoothly.
4.Why are Door Locks Sticking even after the Regular Application of Lubricants?
Ans. You may have chosen the wrong lubricant for the door. The proper lubricant for door locks will prevent door locks from getting stuck for a long time. At least one year of support is possible from graphite spray lubricants.
5.Why do Manufacturers add a Straw in Lubricants?
Ans. Door locks are highly mechanical, and there are several portions where it is challenging to reach cloth or cotton swabs. The straw with the lubricant is helpful in such parts.
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