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.
Powdered graphite is the traditional material for lubricating pin tumbler locks. You can even buy powdered graphite that comes in a little tube with a thin nozzle specially designed for squirting the graphite powder into the keyway.
WD 40 is not in fact a lubricant. It's a ``water displacement'' product. Although it has an oily substance when first applied, that substance evaporates quickly, leaving no lubricant behind.
Spraying your locks with WD-40 helps to prevent moisture build-up inside the mechanism, which would otherwise freeze over a cold night. If you're expecting freezing temperatures, spray some WD-40 into your lock and the lubricant will take care of things. Be sure to get the lubricant inside the lock, though.
Do not put liquid, eg. WD-40, in there, it will only stick more dirt and dust in the lock. Instead use powdered graphite, or 'write' on the key with a graphite pencil, then work that into the lock with the key. It will loosen right up.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Some of the best door lock lubricants available on the market today include Houdini Lock Lube, DuPont Teflon lubricant, Master Lock 2300D PTFE lubricant, and Lock Saver Lubricant. At QuickPro Locksmith, we take pride in providing a wide range of locksmith services to homeowners and businesses.
Vegetable Oil
This pantry staple is another lubricant alternative to WD-40 that can be easily applied without having to purchase another product. Mostly any cooking oil can be used, and vegetable oil has the added perk of being safe to use on most surfaces, including metal and plastic.
Thankfully for Canadian DIY aficionados from St. John's to Vancouver, this alleged news is completely false. In a statement from WD-40 itself: “It has recently come to our attention that false information is circulating online that WD-40® Brand products are being banned in Canada. This is not a true statement.
WD-40 silicone vs WD-40
It is silicon based. A lot of people use WD-40 just the basic one. It is a penetrating oil, It is not a lock lubricant. But for sticky locks or or a lock that's jammed up on you WD-40 is is a nice start because it's a penetrating oil but it does not lubricate your 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.
Keep your locks in tip-top shape with 3-IN-ONE® Lock Dry Lube, formulated to keep lock mechanisms running smoothly and prevent lock rust and corrosion. Our lock lubricant dries quickly and leaves no oily residue, which prevents dirt and dust from collecting in your locks.
This is one of the great oils for dreads. Olive oil has been cherished for centuries for its numerous benefits in hair care. Olive oil is rich in vitamins A and E, which helps strengthens locs and helps in reducing split ends. It also tames unruly hair and provides a natural sheen.
ACV has an acidic pH, and using it as a rinse can help to restore the natural pH of the scalp. ACV helps to remove buildup: Locs can sometimes develop buildup from products, sweat, and other factors. ACV is a natural clarifier, meaning that it can help to remove buildup from the hair and scalp.
WD-40 Specialist® Silicone
Once dried, this formula leaves a clear, non-staining film that doesn't stick or make a mess, so it won't attract dirt. This silicone lubricant spray is great for use on cables, pulleys, guide rails, valves, linkages, hinges, locks and more.
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.
WD-40 Specialist® Dry Lube is a dry lubricant that keeps your equipment running smoothly with long-lasting corrosion protection that resists dirt and dust. It provides superior lubrication and long-lasting corrosion protection with no sticky residue.
One of the top issues with locks and keys occurs when dust and dirt begin collecting inside of a lock cylinder. When this happens, pins can get stuck, which prevents the plug from being able to turn correctly.
Oil, plus the environment – you don't want that in your lock, so you'll want to use a graphite or silicone spray rather than your regular WD-40 or other oil-based lubricants. 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.