Introducing the Dry Lubricant Solution: Graphite Powder Unlike wet lubricants, graphite powder doesn't attract dust and grime, which can clog up the delicate mechanisms of your locks over time. It also doesn't gum up, freeze, or evaporate, providing consistent and reliable lubrication in all weather conditions.
Here are some suitable options: Graphite Powder: This is often considered the best option for locks. Graphite is dry, which means it won't attract dirt and dust, and it provides excellent lubrication. Silicone Spray: A silicone-based lubricant can also work well.
Graphite powder is the preferred lubricant for locks. You should be able to get it at any hardware store in a squeeze bottle that is half air, allowing you to blow it right into the keyway. You are going to have to wait a while before putting it on, as the residual WD-40 will gum it up.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
There are other dry lubricants, Teflon or Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), being the primary alternative to Moly and Graphite. PTFE lubricants have many great applications where being inert and non-conductive are desired characteristics.
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.
GT85 Lubricant is perfect for using and applying to Door Locks the GT 85 spray is a multi-purpose lubricant that helps keep your door and window hardware in good working order. GT85 lubricates and protects while also cleaning automobiles and motorcycles.
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.
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.
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.
Graphite as a Lubricant
Graphite is a crystalline carbon that has a black appearance. It is hydrophobic and offers superior lubrication properties. Graphite is mainly used as a dry lubricant but can also be dispersed in oil. Solid or dry lubricants reduce the force of friction between sliding surfaces.
Molykote Z Powder is a friction contact coating that cannot be sufficiently lubricated with grease or oil due to high loads, low speeds or harmful environmental influences. Molykote Z Powder is suitable for lubricating metal/metal with extreme loads and low speeds or metal/plastic with low loads and speeds.
The best lock lubricant, according to locksmiths, is a Teflon-based lubricant. Graphite tends to gunk up over time and oil-based lubricants will collect debris.
These include aloe vera, yogurt, olive oil, and virgin coconut oil. People should avoid the use of petroleum jelly, lotion, butter, or spit as lubricant alternatives, due to the increased risk of infection or irritation.
Use a can of compressed air or a small brush to clean the keyhole thoroughly. 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.
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.