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.
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.
Although WD-40 lacks the ice-melting powers of an alcohol-based sanitiser or a de-icer, it will help to protect your lock and ensure that it's able to move as freely as possible.
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.
Most locksmiths recommend using a dry graphite powder to lubricate sticky locks. You can find a powdered graphite powder at your local hardware store, as well as precision straws that allow you to aim the lubricant in the exact right spot.
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.
Tip: Spray WD-40 Specialist® Silicone on your vehicle's door seals and inside its locks to prevent them from freezing.
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.
Insulating your lock can lower the risk of freezing by keeping it warm. You don't have to use actual building insulation. Rather, try wrapping your lock in a thick towel or even a couple of socks. The fabric will create a barrier of insulation between the lock and the otherwise freezing-cold air.
In severe winter conditions, applying WD-40 to door handle pivot pins can help prevent ice buildup that might immobilize the handle. Consider applying WD-40 to the door handle pivot pins if you are expecting freezing rain, heavy snow, or icy conditions.
Fortunately, this is often an easy fix. Simply grab a can of WD-40, silicon-based lubricant, graphite spray, or a dry lubricant and spray it into the keyway.
The ethanol and isopropanol alcohol that destroy germs also lower the freezing point of water, and can melt the ice inside the lock within seconds. To defrost your lock, simply coat your key with hand sanitizer and insert the key gently into the frozen lock, but do not force it.
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. Spraying the outside won't do you any favours. So, place the nozzle right up against the lock opening and spray for around 3-5 seconds.
Lubricate the lock: Sticky locks are often due to a lack of lubrication. Apply a graphite-based or silicone-based lubricant specifically designed for locks. Avoid using oil-based lubricants as they can attract more dust and grime.
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.
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.
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!