What kind of oil is used to lubricate door hinges?
2 Answers
Door hinges are lubricated with Vaseline or grease, both of which provide excellent lubrication. Before lubrication, it is necessary to clean the door hinges thoroughly. Commonly available sewing machine oil should be applied to the hinge area while rotating the hinge to remove any rust and dirt. After cleaning, the lubricant can be applied. Door hinges, also known as hinges, are mechanical devices used to connect two solids and allow rotation between them. Due to the different materials of door hinges, their movement states vary. The opening angles of door hinges can be categorized into 25 degrees, 30 degrees, 45 degrees, 135 degrees, 165 degrees, and 180 degrees, among others. The commonly used hinge opening angles range between 95 and 110 degrees.
As a seasoned car repair veteran, choosing the right lubricant for door hinges is crucial. I highly recommend white lithium grease, which comes in a spray can for easy application—just spray it directly onto the hinge pins. Why? Because it's water-resistant, dust-proof, and won't attract grime like motor oil. Before applying, clean the hinge thoroughly to remove old grease and dirt, then apply a thin layer—avoid overdoing it to prevent dripping. Lubricating every quarter prevents squeaks, sticking doors, and extends their lifespan. Neglecting this can lead to rust, annoying noises, and even door malfunction, posing safety risks. Alternatives like silicone-based grease work too, but white lithium offers better cost-performance and is widely available at auto shops. Never use WD-40 (temporary fix but attracts more dirt) or cooking oil (attracts pests and spoils). After lubrication, test the door's smooth operation—it saves repair costs down the road.
