Should I use WD40 to lubricate door locks? The simple answer is you should not use WD40 to lubricate locks. WD-40 is one of the solvent-based lubricants and does not contain any lubricant and over time can make your lock even stickier by gumming the lock up.
Graphite powder is the preferred lubricant for locks. You should be able to get it at any hardware store in a squeeze bottle that is half air, allowing you to blow it right into the keyway. You are going to have to wait a while before putting it on, as the residual WD-40 will gum it up.
WD40 SILICONE is the best thing to use on locks. Also great on upvc windows hinges.
To apply powdered graphite, use the nozzle of the tube to gently insert it into the lock and squeeze a small amount of the powder out. Repeat this process for both sides of the key. If powdered graphite is not available, you can rub the tip of a pencil against the lock and turn the key several times.
WD-40 Specialist Locks Lubricant
The WD-40 Specialist lubricant has been specially developed for the maintenance of all types of cylinders. With the help of its grease- and silicone-free formula, it penetrates by capillary into all the micro-mechanisms of the locks without clogging them.
So even though it's very tempting if you have a can of WD-40 handy (and let's face it, most of us have!) to just give your lock a quick squirt, please don't! The same applies with bicycle chains, you can clean them with GT-85, but using WD-40 will attract dirt over time.
If you have a stuck door lock, spray lubricant into the lock's keyhole. Doing so will loosen any debris or deposits sitting inside your stuck lock and prevent your key from turning. Insert the key and rotate it a few times to work in the lubricant, releasing the stuck part.
Dirt and dust can sometimes find its way into a lock and build up over time. This can clog up the locking mechanism making it difficult to turn. You can apply some graphite spay or silicone based lubricant in the lock, put the key back in and turn it a few times.
If you are in a rush and need to remedy a sticky lock, the most convenient way is with olive oil from your pantry. In order to fix the lock using the olive oil, simply rub a small amount of the oil on your key and insert it in the lock.
Don't use oil.
Oil might assist the moving parts of the motor in your car, but it is never a good idea to squirt it in a stiff lock. The oil will just combine with any grime already in the mechanism and compound the situation.
Myth: WD-40 Multi-Use Product is not really a lubricant. Fact: While the “W-D” in WD-40 stands for Water Displacement, WD-40 Multi-Use Product is a unique, special blend of lubricants. The product's formulation also contains anti-corrosion agents and ingredients for penetration, water displacement and soil removal.
Yes, you can use Vaseline instead of WD-40 if you need a quick substitute. However, keep in mind Vaseline may not work for all applications, including inside locks. While it can work great on door hinges, it may be too sticky for locks and end up attracting dust and dirt particles—which can cause damage to your lock.
The WD-40 specialist cylinder - spray was specially developed for the maintenance of all types of lock cylinders. The silicone and grease free formula and high capillary action allows the product to penetrate the cylinder mechanism and loosen blockages without gumming up.
Door lock maintenance
Lubrication is an important factor that provides the necessary door lock functions. Grease all rubbing surfaces of the locking mechanisms on average once every 6 months. Spray a small amount of lubricant into the keyway.
What's the best lubricant for your lock? When choosing the best product to lubricate locks, dry lubricants like graphite powder and PTFE lubricants are best. As mentioned above, oil-based products can attract dust and dirt which can damage the delicate internal mechanism of your lock.
There may be an unevenly-worn pin or pins in the lock. The easiest way to diagnose this is to disassemble the lock cylinder, and having done that, one might as well replace any pin that looks worn. A broken spring is another possibility, and can be remedied in a similar way.
Best lubricant for fixing sticky locks
WD-40 does make a product specifically for locks, WD-40 Specialist Dry Lubricant and we also like 3-IN-ONE's Lock Dry Lube. Just like you did with the compressed air, spray a good amount of your lubricant into the keyhole and around the deadbolt entry point.
Use it to release as many rusty bolts as you like but if you use WD40 within a lock you only succeed in displacing the last bit of lubrication that was left in the cylinder, making it dryer than ever and even more likely to stick!
Graphite powder – You can easily buy this online (it's basically the substance that pencil lead is made out of). Blow the powder into the lock cylinder and this should make the movement of the key smoother. Pro tip: If you don't have graphite powder, you can try a graphite pencil.
Lubricate the Hinges
Dry door hinges can hold back a door and make it much harder to open. Your first step should be to lubricate the hinges to make sure they swing well. If the hinges have rusted or broken, this may not be enough, and they may need to be replaced.
Will WD40 help a swollen door? WD-40 can help reduce friction and might loosen up a swollen door temporarily. But it's not a permanent fix since it doesn't tackle the root issue, like moisture or humidity. For a long-term solution, try drying out the door or sanding down the swollen areas.
Use powdered graphite, Teflon, or PTFE-based lubricants like WD-40 Dry Lube to clear away any gunk or debris stuck in the lock. Slide your key in and out of the lock to spread the lubricant around the lock. Reapply lubricate once every season to keep your locks gunk-free.