Squeaky door driving you crazy? Here's the fix that actually works

1. Identify where the squeak is coming from

Open and close the door slowly while listening for the squeak. Move it back and forth a few times to pinpoint which hinge is causing the noise.

The squeak usually comes from the hinges, where the pin pivots inside the hinge barrel. Friction between these metal surfaces creates the sound you hear.

2. Loosen the hinge pin

Tap the hinge pin upward slightly using a hammer and screwdriver, or unscrew it partially if your hinge allows. You don't need to remove it completely, just lift it enough to create a gap.

Loosening the pin gives lubricant access to the internal surfaces where friction occurs. Without this step, lubricant only coats the outside and doesn't reach the problem areas.

3. Apply lubricant to the hinge

Spray WD-40 or similar lubricant directly into the hinge knuckle gap where the pin sits. Aim for the space between the hinge barrels so the lubricant can penetrate into the pivot surfaces.

Focus on the joint area rather than spraying the entire hinge. The lubricant needs to reach the metal-on-metal contact points inside the hinge mechanism.

Then swing the door slowly several times to spread the lubricant throughout the hinge. Open it fully, close it, and repeat this motion 5-10 times. This distributes lubricant to all internal contact points, not just the surfaces you can see.

The squeak should start quieting as the lubricant reaches friction areas.

4. Wipe away excess lubricant

Use a cloth to clean up any drips or excess around the hinge and door frame. Lubricant that stays on surfaces will attract dust and can stain wood or paint.

Next, check the floor below the hinge for any drips that might have fallen during spraying. If you spot any, make sure to cleaning these immediately to prevent slippery spots or marks.

5. Test and apply a second product if needed

Open and close the door again to check if the squeak is completely gone. If you still hear noise, the hinge needs a penetrating oil or heavier lubricant.

Apply a penetrating oil (like 3-IN-ONE or similar) using the same method: into the hinge gap, then work the door. Some stubborn squeaks need a more viscous product to fully eliminate friction.

6. Tighten the hinge pin back

Tap the hinge pin back down into its original position, or tighten the screw if you loosened it that way. The pin should sit flush with the top of the hinge.

A loose pin can cause alignment issues over time, so ensure the pin is fully seated so the hinge operates correctly and the door hangs properly. Then wipe down the entire hinge area one more time to remove any lubricant residue.

Test the door multiple times at different speeds — slow opens, quick closes, partial swings. The squeak should be completely silent across all movements.

7. Maintenance and prevention

Regular maintenance prevents squeaks from returning and extends hinge life. It's a good idea to reapply lubricant every 6-12 months to keep the hinges operating smoothly.

While you have the lubricant out, you could check other doors in your home. Treating hinges before they squeak prevents the problem entirely and takes just seconds per door.