For the best results, spray a dry PTFE lubricant (like 3-IN-ONE Lock Dry Lube) or a silicone-based spray (such as Tri-Flow) into the keyhole. These formulas penetrate the mechanism to break down grime but dry quickly so they won't attract dirt, dust, or moisture.
Teflon-based dry lubricant is preferred by some locksmiths over other options, like graphite or WD-40. It's ideal because, besides lubricating your lock, it repels water and dust. That means that once you fix a lock with this type of lubricant, you can expect the lock to be in good shape for a long time.
Polytetrafluoroethylene, or PTFE, is a Teflon-based lubricant that dries inside the lock to leave behind a non-stick, water-repellent film on all the surfaces. Since it's dry, it doesn't attract dust or dirt.
In most cases we would recommend a PTFE based spray oil is the best (GT85 or WD-40s Specialist Anti Friction Dry PTFE). The PTFE oil dries inside and creates a thin film across all the surfaces inside the lock.
Door Locks
"Because WD-40 attracts dust and dirt, it can clog up the internal mechanisms, making the problem worse." Marino recommends using a dry graphite powder instead, which functions as dry lubrication and is a solid choice for stubborn locks.
Cooking spray can be used as an instant WD-40 substitute, being safe and easy to apply. Common cooking oils like vegetable oil and coconut oil can serve as effective lubricants, with coconut oil being less messy due to its texture. Solid substitutes like Vaseline and beeswax can be applied to prevent squeaks and rust.
To loosen a stiff lock, apply a dry lubricant like powdered graphite or a specialized PTFE spray into the keyhole and work the key in and out to distribute it. Avoid oil-based lubricants like standard WD-40, as they attract dirt and can worsen sticking over time.
The best overall lubricant for locks is a professional-grade dry lubricant like a PTFE spray (e.g., Houdini Lock Lube or Tri-Flow). Unlike standard oils or greases, these dry lubrics leave a frictionless coating that won't trap dirt, dust, or metal shavings, keeping your mechanisms smooth and corrosion-free.
To fix a door lock that is hard to turn, apply a dry, lock-specific lubricant (like graphite powder or PTFE spray) into the keyway and work your key in and out. If lubrication fails, the issue is likely door misalignment; tighten loose hinge screws or adjust the strike plate.
The ideal way to fix a seized lock is to use a lubricant. WD-40 offers several solutions to maintain your locks: WD-40 Multifunctional Product, WD-40 Specialist Locks Lubricant or WD-40 Specialist PTFE Dry Lubricant. Each of them has its advantages and can therefore meet your lock maintenance needs.
No, you should never use olive oil to lubricate a lock. While it may provide a temporary fix, food-based oils go rancid over time. They will dry out, become gummy, and trap dirt and dust, permanently ruining the lock's delicate pin mechanism.
If your key is suddenly hard to insert into a lock, the mechanism is likely clogged with debris, the internal pins are sticking, or the metal is misaligned. You can usually fix this quickly by lubricating the lock or checking for obstructions.
To open a rusted padlock, saturate the keyway and shackle with a penetrating lubricant like WD-40 or Liquid Wrench. Allow it to soak for at least 15 minutes. Tap the body and sides with a hammer to help the fluid break up the rust, then gently insert the key and work it back and forth.
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.
Dry lubricants, such as graphite powder, are the unsung heroes of lock maintenance. Unlike wet lubricants, graphite powder doesn't attract dust and grime, which can clog up the delicate mechanisms of your locks over time.
The best lubricant for a sticky lock depends on the lock's location, but Teflon (PTFE) or silicone-based dry lubricants are generally the top choices. For maximum longevity and clean operation, professionals recommend using specialized products rather than standard wet oils.
Open a stuck lock by lubricating the mechanism with graphite or silicone spray, jiggling the key gently, or using a stiff plastic card to retract the spring latch. If it is a door, lift the handle while pushing or remove the hinge pins to bypass the lock.
Isopropyl alcohol is the most accessible and inexpensive method for defrosting a frozen lock or door. When poured over the lock or door, the door should defrost quickly. Also, the alcohol will rid the lock of any excess moisture.
To loosen a stiff lock, apply a dry lubricant like powdered graphite or a specialized PTFE spray into the keyhole and work the key in and out to distribute it. Avoid oil-based lubricants like standard WD-40, as they attract dirt and can worsen sticking over time.
The short answer: no, you shouldn't use standard WD40 on locks. Many people try using WD40 on locks to loosen them when they get stuck, since it works as a lubricant for many things. But standard WD40 actually does the opposite. WD40 strips a lock of its natural lubricant and can make your lock stiffer or even sticky.
This can be caused by moisture getting trapped inside the lock, which then turns to ice in freezing temperatures, causing the locking mechanism to become stiff. Metal components can also contract in the cold, which can make the lock feel stiff.
Use a dry lubricant like powdered graphite or a PTFE/Teflon-based spray (such as WD-40 Specialist Dry Lube). These penetrate without leaving a sticky residue, ensuring dirt and dust don't build up inside the delicate mechanisms. Never use standard WD-40 or heavy grease, as these will eventually gum up the lock.
Teflon Dry Lubricant
Teflon-based dry lubricant is preferred by some locksmiths over other options. It's a great option because, as well as lubricating your lock, it repels water and dust. Meaning that once you fix a lock with this type of lubricant, you can expect the lock to be in good shape for a long time.