Whether you're looking to open a mysterious cupboard or just being unlucky, like being locked in the bathroom, the door lock technique will come in handy for you. This is your escape route. Don't panic and keep reading this article.
Step
Method 1 of 2: Unlocking a Locked Door without a Key
Step 1. Use a credit card in a spring lock
While not useful for latch, it will be useful for spring locks (the type of lock that tilts and becomes one with the handle). Choose a cheap and unused card so that it doesn't matter if your card is damaged. Preferably, use a laminated card.
- Force the card into the lock and frame slot. Bend back, so that the lock is forced back into the door and then unlocked.
- If there's no space between the key and the frame, you can force it through the top of the lock and frame, then swipe quickly down while dragging the card toward the frame. This method is more effective using a card that is thicker and stronger.
Step 2. Use a small screwdriver or thin tool on the interior of the door
This method is useful on doors that have a “privacy handle,” which is locked by pressing the button on the doorknob. If you're locked behind it, look for a small hole in the doorknob. Push using an eyeglass screwdriver, a flat hammered paper clip, or a very small butter knife into this hole. Push straight as far as you can, and turn or twist until it hits the groove and the door opens.
Step 3. Force unlock
This method is quite complicated, so we recommend that you read the full guide. First, insert the short end of the Allen key into the bottom edge of the keyhole. Apply a little pressure to turn in the direction of rotation of the key. Keep the pressure as stable as possible, and the lock will turn. Keep this pressure as precise as possible, and use an unbent paperclip with a small hook at the end to open the lock.
- Scrubbing method: gently push the paper clip to the lower end of the keyhole, then lift it back and up. Repeat in a circular motion, increasing the pressure on the Allen key slightly each time, until you feel the key shift. If this happens, keep the pressure steady as you repeat this movement until the door opens.
- The pin-by-pin method: If you don't have success with the scrubbing method, keep the pressure on the Allen key firm and steady as you slowly push with the paperclip. When the paperclip makes contact with the pin, try to catch it and then lift it up until you hear the door lock open. Repeat with additional pins until the lock opens.
Step 4. Remove the hinges
Use a standard sized flat head screwdriver and slide it between the bottom knuckle and the pin. Tap the screwdriver handle downwards with a hammer. Remove the hinge head and pins when they are loose enough.
Repeat on all hinges. If the pin doesn't come out easily, try using a Phillips head screwdriver to force it out
Step 5. Break the lock with a hammer
This is your last resort if you want to unlock the door. In most cases, you should call a locksmith or call your local fire station. If you need to leave immediately, repeatedly hit the doorknob or lock until it slips out of the door.
Method 2 of 2: Unlocking a Lock that's Stuck
Step 1. Push or pull the door when you turn the lock
On most older doors, you will need to press down on the door when you turn the lock, as the curved door causes the lock to bend at odd angles. Try applying pressure in every direction: up, down, pull, and push. Use as much force as possible without losing your balance as soon as the door opens.
If you're using a friend's key, ask him or her. He knew better about the door
Step 2. Turn the key in both directions
There is no fixed way to turn the key and open the door. Even if you know the direction of turning to “unlock,” turning the key to the “locked” position can sometimes actually clear up a jam. If you can turn the key slightly past the fully locked position, turn it back in a quick, smooth motion to open the locked lock.
Step 3. Lubricate the lock
Unless you're planning on changing your locks, choose an oil-free lubricant such as graphite powder as dry oil will make the lock stick even more. Give one short spray or squeeze directly into the keyhole. Do not apply too much lubricant as it is counterproductive.
If you're stuck in the room, use whatever grease you have on hand, or rub the keys with the tip of a graphite pencil
Step 4. Check the lock
The problem may be a crooked lock, or badly damaged teeth. If you have a clamp, you can make a temporary fix by realigning the lock until it is flat again. Replace the lock at a locksmith as soon as possible.
Step 5. Know when to energize
If you hear a click when the lock turns, the door may be unlocked but still stuck, and can be opened with a few pushes. If the key is stuck, hit the key several times after applying lubricating oil to slide the sticky peg out.
Step 6. Try another way
You may have to set the key aside and use the unlocking method described in the section below. If that doesn't work, you may need the services of a locksmith.
Tips
- If you can unlock your front door, thieves can too. Use a latch (if you have one), or replace it with a more secure lock.
- If you hear or feel the lock open but the door doesn't open, there may be a latch or other lock on the door behind the door.
