Discovered a cheap trick for fixing a sticky door lock with a pencil

I rubbed a pencil tip over the key and worked it in the lock a few times, now it slides smooth as new no more WD40 smell in my hallway has anyone else tried this instead of buying lubricant?

3 comments

3 Comments

jasonallen5d ago

Graphite dust can actually gum up modern locks with tight tolerances over time. A proper lubricant like a dry PTFE spray protects against moisture way better than pencil shavings ever will. You might be fixing a sticky lock today but setting yourself up for a bigger problem down the road.

ruby_henderson365d ago

Used to be on team graphite all the way, but after dealing with a seized lock on my old truck from that exact gunk buildup, I had to switch. @susanb34, your grandpa's trick works for sure in the short run, but I learned the hard way that modern locks are a different beast. The PTFE spray is a night and day difference, it actually keeps things moving without turning into that black paste. Wish I'd known this years ago before I wrecked a good deadbolt. Appreciate you sharing the real deal on this one.

susanb346d ago

Graphite from pencils is perfect for locks, better than any oil or spray. My grandpa taught me that trick years ago when my front door got all sticky from the cold. It works every time and keeps the lock clean without any messy residue.