Best Lock Lubricant
1. Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)-based lubricants. Most Teflon-based lubricants are aerosols that require you to insert the nozzle of the can into the lock and spray a few times. Then, push the key back and forth in the lock to spread the lubricant.
- The anti-stick formula of Teflon-based lubricants repels dust and dirt for a long time. This lubricant also works in wet and freezing environments because it is water-resistant, while also being able to be used at high temperatures.
- Disadvantages: Using Teflon-based lubricants can be messy.
- Teflon-based lubricants also come in dry formulas.
2. Graphite Powder Lubricants. To use graphite powder, simply squeeze the lubricant into the lock. Then, repeatedly insert the key and twist it to disperse the lubricant through the lock.
- Pros: Graphite powder is long-lasting and non-sticky, so it keeps dust, dirt, and debris away. It also helps prevent rust and performs well in both high and low temperatures.
- Cons: Because graphite comes in powder form, frequent use can cause graphite to build up inside the lock, warns veteran locksmith Sean Fargo. In damp and rainy climates, graphite can harden and seize up the locking mechanism.
- Graphite lubricants come in both powder and liquid forms.
3. Silicone lubricants. Silicone lubricants typically come in aerosol cans, and you simply place the nozzle inside the lock and spray a few times. Then, insert the key into the lock a few times to disperse the lubricant.
- Pros: Silicone lubricants are water-resistant and not oil-based, so they don't attract dust and dirt. They also withstand extreme temperatures, so they're long-lasting.
- Cons: Silicone lubricants are more likely to cause buildup than Teflon-based lubricants. They can also make a mess and stain surfaces.
4. Grease lubricants. Grease lubricants, like white lithium grease, are extremely water-resistant and help protect locks from rust and corrosion. When using a grease lubricant, spray a few squirts of lubricant into the lock and then move the key back and forth in the lock to distribute the lubricant.
- Pros: Grease lubricants form a thick, long-lasting barrier that repels water and frost. This thicker formula makes this lubricant ideal for large, heavy locks.
- Cons: Grease lubricants are more likely to attract dust and dirt. Their thick formula may also cause more delicate locks and mechanisms to stick.
5. WD-40. Although WD-40 is a penetrating oil and not technically a lubricant, it can come in handy if your key is stuck. Simply spray WD-40 into the lock. Then, repeatedly insert the key into the keyhole to work the WD-40 into the lock.
- WD-40 acts as a cleaner rather than a lubricant, removing dust buildup, rust, and corrosion to get the lock working properly again.
- Cons: WD-40 contains oil, so it attracts dust and dirt, which may eventually cause the lock to stick. In addition, it wears out quickly, so it is not a long-term solution.
6. De-icing lubricant. Whether the door lock is currently frozen or not, simply squeeze a de-icing lubricant into the door lock. Then, turn the key back and forth in the door lock to spread the lubricant.
- Pros: De-icing lubricants are specifically formulated for low-temperature environments and can thaw your lock or prevent it from freezing.
- Cons: De-icing lubricants may cause buildup and displace the lubricant you were using previously.
7. Pencils. If you are in a pinch, you can use the graphite core in a regular pencil to lubricate your lock. Simply rub the sharpened pencil back and forth in the grooves and sides of the key. Then, push the key back and forth in the lock to distribute the graphite. Simply rub the key with the pencil repeatedly and push it into the lock until the lock is completely lubricated.
- Pros: Lubricating the lock with a pencil is a quick solution if no other lubricant is on hand.
- Cons: A pencil is a short-term solution because graphite generally wears out quickly. It is also not as effective as graphite powder and other lubricants
