Introduction

When a door hinge develops a squeak due to wear or settling, instead of reaching for a messy spray lubricant, try this traditional, non-toxic, non-staining lubricant.

If you’ve got a door hinge that squeals every time you open the door, we’ve got the fix for you. A little petroleum jelly will rid the hinge of that annoying squeak. The petroleum jelly works its way into the hinge and adheres well, so it won’t run off and make a mess like oil or other lubricants.

Tools Required

  • Hammer
  • Rags

Materials Required

  • 8d finish nail
  • Petroleum jelly

Project step-by-step (2)

Step 1

Tap Pin Up

  • Loosen each hinge pin by tapping an 8d nail up from underneath.
  • Once the pin is loose, pull it out (lift up on the door handle to relieve pressure if the pin binds).
  • Keep the door closed and work on only one hinge at a time.

Hinge nail 2848 015Family Handyman

Step 2

Lubricate the Pin

  • Lightly coat the hinge pin with petroleum jelly
  • Dab a little in the top of the pin slot.
  • Reinsert the pin and wipe off any excess.
  • Open and close the door a few times to work the petroleum jelly into the hinge joints.

Petroleum jelly on a nail 2848 016Family Handyman