Many locksmiths recommend PTFE lubricants because they possess chemical-resistant properties and can withstand temperatures of up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit.
Top of our list is PTFE lubricants. 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.
WD40 SILICONE is the best thing to use on locks. Also great on upvc windows hinges.
Graphite. Used in air compressors, food industry, railway track joints, brass instrument valves, piano actions, open gear, ball bearings, machine-shop works, etc. It is also very common for lubricating locks, since a liquid lubricant allows particles to get stuck in the lock worsening the problem.
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.
This greasy characteristic makes graphite a good lubricant. Because it is a solid material, it is known as a dry lubricant. This is useful in applications where “wet” lubricants, such as oil, cannot be used.
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.
Powdered graphite usually comes in a tube that makes application easy, just place the tip of the nozzle inside the lock and squeeze a little out. Do the same for the key, gently apply to both sides.
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.
At Nye, we do not recommend silicone greases for electrical automotive applications. It has been found that lower quality, light base oil viscosity silicone lubricants present the possibility of outgassing, potentially contaminating nearby switch contacts leading eventually to switch failure and continuity problems.
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.
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.
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.
A dry, graphite lubricant has plenty of applications, as do multi-purpose oils. When it comes to lubricating a lock, there is a better choice between the two—graphite lubricant.
Many locksmiths recommend PTFE lubricants because they possess chemical-resistant properties and can withstand temperatures of up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. Besides, PTFE lubricants provide superior water resistance and have self-cleaning ability.
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.
Great All-rounder
I use 3 in one drip oil for my hobby – restoring cars. It's really multi purpose as I use it for seat rails, door hinges and door locks. But it's also useful in the house for doors and locks.
Vaseline: you can use vaseline for all sorts of applications. It is a great lubricant for metal parts such as air installation, but it is also regularly used for installing PVC parts. Note: contrary to ball bearer grease, vaseline does become liquid at higher temperatures (40 - 60°C), causing it to drip.
These things cannot be used as lube
If you do some research online, you will find some very bad suggestions as to what you can use for lube. Vaseline, hand cream, soap and baby oil are some examples. Please remember that none of these things should be used as lube! Stay away from them!
To begin, you're probably wondering, “What is baby oil?” Baby oil is comprised mostly of mineral oil, a colorless, odorless liquid made from highly refined petroleum. Lubricating mineral oils are most often created for one of two purposes: industrial uses and more highly refined consumer-grade uses.
1. Engine and Motor Oil. Engine and Motor Oil is not only the most common type of lubricant, but also the most crucial lubricant for automotives. Engine oil is responsible for the complete lubrication of an engine and its combustion chambers to reduce friction in moving parts.