Don't Use WD-40 on Your Locks!

By Elizabeth Michael

October 13, 2024

Stuck locks can be pretty frustrating, especially if your key won't budge and you can't get in your car or house. In many cases, sticky locks are easy to fix with the right lubricant. While a common belief is that using WD-40 for locks is perfectly safe, it's actually not recommended due to its solvent content.

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Before you reach for your can of WD-40, consider some alternative solutions to get your locks back in working order.

Why Shouldn’t You Use WD-40 For Door Locks?

The main reason WD-40 shouldn't be used with locks is because it's a solvent-based product that can actually dry out the inner components. WD-40's secret formula contains a "special blend of lubricants," but it's also crafted with Stoddard solvent, an ingredient used in paint thinners and degreasing products. Some of its uses include removing rust and grease from tools, loosening squeaking garage door rollers and oiling up bicycle chains.

When you apply WD-40 to a door lock or car lock, the solvent may remove any existing lubricant that's already present and dry out the inner components. This can cause your keys and the lock itself to stick when you attempt to lock or unlock your door. While WD-40 definitely has lubricating properties, the solvent ingredients are simply too strong for door locks.

Stripping your lock of lubricant can make it easier for dust, dirt and other gunk to build up inside the cylinder and create a sticky mess. WD-40 works best when used to take the squeak out of hinges and applied as a solvent to remove dirt and debris from metal, tile and leather items.

What Should You Use Instead?

There are several lubricant alternatives that offer lock cylinder protection without the potential side effects of WD-40. Instead of using WD-40 for locks, consider these options:

Polytetrafluoroethylene Lubricant

PTFE is a Teflon-based lubricant that creates a water-repellent barrier inside the lock cylinder. This formulation dries quickly and won't leave any sticky residue behind. PTFE is categorized as a dry lubricant, which means it shouldn't attract dust and grime.

Graphite Powder

Graphite powder is another dry lubricant that helps protect the lock cylinders from corrosion and dust buildup. However, it's important to use graphite powder sparingly, as it can also build up and jam the lock cylinder.

White Lithium Grease

White lithium grease is a popular alternative to WD-40, as it produces an extra-thick layer of protection that hinders rust and corrosion. With lithium grease, it's important to note that a little goes a long way. Excess grease can lead to blockages in the pin mechanisms, so be careful to only use as directed. On the plus side, lithium grease is heat-resistant and specifically formulated to work on metal, making it a great choice for doorknobs and car locks.

Cooking Spray

Believe it or not, home improvement experts also recommend cooking spray as an alternative to WD-40. The greasy texture of commercial cooking sprays works well to lubricate metal, and they work well to remove sticky residue from locks. Best of all, this WD-40 alternative comes in an easy-to-apply spray can.

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How Do Lock Lubricants Work?

Lock lubricants create a protective barrier that helps repel moisture caused by rain, snow and excess humidity. When wet elements make their way into the cylinders of car and door locks, this can increase the risk of corrosion, rusting and damage. Corroded locks are much harder to open and close, which is why using the right lubricant is extremely important.

Most commercial lock lubricants come in spray cans with an attached straw. The straws are small for easy application in the lock cylinder. While different types of lock lubricants may have their own unique instructions, they usually instruct the user to spray the formula directly into the lock cylinder using short bursts. Be sure to check your packaging instructions prior to applying lubricant.

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