Graphite powder is a dry lubricant and a well-known alternative to oil since it doesn't leave behind a sticky residue. This means it lubricates locks without attracting dust and has been used in lock maintenance for decades.
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.
One of the best lubricants for entrance and dead bolt locks is a dry graphite lubricant. Only a small amount is needed to lubricate. We found that many locks where homeowners use liquid lubricants are gummed up and full of dirt. Dry Graphite will keep the pins lubricated, and help protect against freezing.
3-IN-ONE Lock Dry Lube is an aerosol formula that penetrates quickly and deeply to dissolve build-up and lubricate lock mechanisms. It leaves a clear, dry, long-lasting, corrosion-protecting film that won't attract dirt or create a mess.
WD40 SILICONE is the best thing to use on locks. Also great on upvc windows hinges.
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.
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.
Dont use oils for lock lubrication. They catch and hang onto dirt and grime, they gum up and become sticky, and as others have noted, they go rancid if they are food based oils. While they may work, they will eventually stop helping and will start hurting.
B'laster Graphite Dry Lubricant reduces wear to extend equipment life. It creates a quick drying film that provides long-lasting lubrication. It's recommended as a general maintenance lubricant on gaskets, transfer belts and conveyor belts.
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.
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.
B'laster Dry Lube helps reduce friction and wear, protects surfaces and enhances performance. Use it on locks and catches, hinges, cables, window and door tracks, rope and conveyor belts. It provides superior lubrication and is safe for use on most plastics.
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.
To lubricate the lock Safestyle recommends using graphite powder, the fine particles mean less residue than oils or sprays which can also be sensitive to hot or cold conditions. Put a little amount of graphite powder inside the door lock to ease any friction inside, making sure not to put in too much.
For optimal performance, lubricate your lock with Master Lock's PTFE Lock Lubricant 2300D and 2311 which is ideal for use with all locks. Lubricate both the keyway and the shackle.
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.
PB Blaster is a penetrating oil intended for loosening rusted joints (threads, etc). It does this quite well. WD-40 is a "Water Displacement" treatment intended to leave a persistent rust-inhibiting coating behind, and resist washing off exposed parts.
Dry chain lube typically has a lifespan of up to 100 miles. Wax chain lube should be reapplied every 50 to 100 miles. Wet chain lube can last well over 100 miles, and Finish Line's Ceramic Wet Chain Lube can reportedly last even longer with a limit of 175 miles.
3-IN-ONE Dry Lube provides superior lubrication and long-lasting corrosion protection without leaving an oily residue. This dry lubricant dries almost instantly to prevent sawdust, dirt, and grit from sticking, and comes with a Marksman Twist Spout for easy and precise application.
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.
When you apply multi-use WD-40 to a lock mechanism, it can remove any preexisting lubricant and dry out the lock. Therefore, it may actually increase the likelihood of the lock sticking. It can also create the ideal conditions for dust and dirt to accumulate, potentially leading to stuck lock pins.
Try a lubricant
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.
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.
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.