How to Open a Door Lock

Whether you're trying to unlock a mysterious wardrobe or have found yourself stuck in a public bathroom, here's the way out. Stay calm and keep reading this article for more details.

Using a Credit/ATM Card to Open a Spring Lock This method might not work for lever-style locks, but it can be effective for spring locks (locks with a latch inside the handle). Choose an unimportant card – so if it breaks, there’s no major loss. A thin, flexible card is ideal.

• Slide the card into the gap between the lock and door frame so it runs parallel to the frame. Bend the card to push the latch inside and open the door.
• If there’s no gap between the frame and lock, slide the card into the space between the door and the frame above the lock, then quickly swipe it down while angling the card toward the door frame. In this case, a thicker, sturdier card will work better.

Use a small screwdriver or any flat, thin tool to poke into the inner structure of the lock. This method is suitable for doors with a "manually controlled safety latch" locked by pressing a button on the handle. If the door is locked from the inside, look for a small round hole on the handle. Then, use a mini screwdriver, a straightened paperclip, or a small butter knife to insert into the hole. Push as deep as possible, then rotate or twist the tool until it hits a groove, causing the lock to release.

Lever the lock open. This method is quite complicated, so be sure to read the instructions carefully. First, insert the short end of a hex key into the bottom edge of the keyhole. Then, gently turn the lock with the hex key to unlock it. Maintain consistent pressure while using a straightened paperclip with a small hook at one end to lever the lock open:

• Scrubbing method (using friction): Slowly insert the paperclip into the bottom edge of the keyhole, then wiggle it up and down. Repeat this motion, gradually applying more pressure on the hex key each time until you feel a change in the lock. Maintain a steady force and repeat until the door opens.
• Pin-by-pin method (using pins to push the pins): If the previous method fails, keep applying a light, steady force on the hex key while carefully inserting the paperclip deeper. When the paperclip touches a pin, try to lift the curved end of the paperclip until it pushes the spring-loaded pin into place. Repeat this with other spring-loaded pins until the lock opens.

Remove the hinges. Insert a standard flathead screwdriver between the hinge pin and the hinge shaft. Tap the handle of the screwdriver with a hammer, driving it downward. Once the pin loosens enough, remove it from the hinge shaft.

• Do the same for all the hinges. If the pin seems stuck, you can use a Phillips screwdriver to twist it out.

Break the lock with a hammer. This step is at the end for a reason – it's your last resort. In most cases, calling a locksmith or an emergency line would be better. But if you're desperate and need to break the door open immediately, use a hammer to strike it forcefully until the doorknob or lock breaks free.

Push or pull the door while turning the key. For most old doors, you’ll need to apply force while inserting the key, as the warped door is bending the lock at an angle, making it difficult to open. Try applying pressure in different directions: up, down, towards you, or away from you. Use as much strength as necessary, just make sure you don’t lose your balance when the door finally opens.

• If you’re opening a door at a friend’s house, it's a good idea to call them and inform them about the condition of the door.

Turn the key in different directions. There is no standard direction for turning a key to unlock a lock. Even when you know the direction to turn the key to "unlock", turning it in the "locked" direction can sometimes release the jam. If you can turn the key slightly in the locking direction, then with a quick and fluid motion, turn it in the opposite direction, which might free the jam.

Lubricate the lock. Unless you plan to replace the lock, you should use a lubricant that isn’t oil-based (such as graphite powder) because grease can dry out, causing the lock to become even more jammed. Just spray a small amount or apply it directly to the keyhole; too much lubricant will work against you.

• If you're stuck in a room, you can use any oil you have or rub the tip of a pencil into the key's edge for some temporary lubrication.

Inspect the key. The problem could be due to a bent key or worn teeth. Placing the key on a flat surface and gently bending it back may sometimes offer a temporary fix, especially if you have a vise on hand. However, once the issue is resolved, you should take the key to a locksmith to have it replaced.

Know when to apply force. If you hear a “click” sound when turning the key, the lock may have opened but is still stuck. In this case, just punch the door a few times, and it should open. If the lock is jammed, after applying lubricant, tap the lock a few times to shift the jammed latch into place.

Try multiple methods. When the key becomes useless, you can attempt the lock-picking method described earlier. If that doesn’t work, it’s time to call a locksmith.

• If you can pick your own door lock, then a thief could likely do the same. Therefore, consider installing a deadbolt or replacing it with a more secure lock.
• If you hear or feel that the lock has opened but the door still won’t open, there could be another lock on the other side of the door (a lever lock or knob lock).

• Your actions might look suspicious. Be prepared to explain if anyone asks, and make sure you have permission from the homeowner before attempting to pick the lock.