What kind of oil should be used for squeaky door hinges?
4 Answers
Engine oil can be used for squeaky door hinges. Below is relevant information about engine oil: 1. Definition: Engine oil, also known as motor lubricant (English name: Engine-oil), has a density of approximately 0.91kg*10³. It is hailed as the "blood" of automobiles. Engine oil consists of two components: base oil and additives. The base oil is the main component of lubricating oil, determining its fundamental properties, while additives compensate for and improve the shortcomings of the base oil's performance, imparting new characteristics, making them an essential part of lubricating oil. 2. Function: It serves to lubricate and reduce friction in the engine, assist in cooling, seal against leaks, prevent rust and corrosion, and provide shock absorption.
Hey, the door in my old house often creaks, and I've tried many methods before. Generally speaking, silicone-based lubricant is the most reliable. It doesn’t attract dust or cause corrosion and lasts quite a while. However, before applying the lubricant, you need to clean the door hinges first—wipe off the dust and old grease with a damp cloth; otherwise, even the best lubricant won’t work. I usually use a spray-type silicone lubricant—just a few sprays, move the door back and forth a few times, and it becomes smooth quickly. WD-40 can also be used in emergencies, but it evaporates quickly, doesn’t last more than a few weeks, and may leave residue. I recommend buying lubricants specifically designed for doors and avoiding random use of motor oil, as it can dirty the floor. After each application, check regularly, and don’t overlook the daily maintenance of door frame gaps to extend the door’s lifespan.
We have several kids at home, and the squeaky door hinges really make us nervous. I always choose environmentally friendly and safe lubricants. Food-grade silicone oil is the most ideal—odorless, non-toxic, and no worries about kids accidentally touching it or polluting the air. Other options like liquid graphite are also good, made from natural ingredients and easy to apply, though slightly more expensive. Before applying the lubricant, make sure to clean the dirt from the corners of the hinges—just use a soft cloth dampened with water. I recommend avoiding products like WD-40 that contain chemical solvents—they have a strong smell and can easily cause allergies. Always open and close doors gently to avoid wiping off the lubricant too quickly. If you have old doors at home, consider replacing the hinges for a hassle-free solution.
I used to encounter issues like door hinge squeaking when I was doing handiwork. The simplest solution is to use graphite powder. Just grab a bit and sprinkle it at the hinge connection—it provides excellent lubrication, lasts long, and is very low-cost. Before applying oil, don't forget to clean the area; use a fine brush to remove dust from the door gaps. Silicone oil spray is also popular now and works much better than engine oil. My advice is to avoid overcomplicating things—it saves time and hassle. The sooner you fix it, the sooner you can relax.
