Lock Lubrication – Best Types of Lubricants for Locks

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I recently made the Yale lock on my front door much easier to open by spraying some WD-40 in there.

However, I just saw this question on WD-40 not being a “true” lubricant, and wondered whether it was appropriate to use on Yale locks?

Best Answer

OLD ANSWER (Improved below)

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.

EDIT: As per MrSquonk's comment below -- Try coating the key and work it in slowly. It's less messy.

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LATE EDIT: Comment below edited into the answer. Please read full comment thread.

Yale USA says:

Yale® KeyMark® cylinders are lubricated from the factory with a Teflon® lubrication. Cylinders should be lubricated periodically depending upon environmental conditions and usage. LAB Lube is the approved lubricant. Caution: It is not recommended to lubricate cylinders with oil or to mix lubricants. "

LAB Lube

  • Micronized polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) Powder

  • A dry white powder lubricant that will not "cake-up" as graphite does.

  • A superior friction-fighting agent
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