How can I repair a rusted or jammed door lock?

A rusty or stiff door lock can be repaired yourself with simple materials and a little skill. Here are the basic steps:

• Clean the lock: Use a straw or a special tool to remove dirt and dusted lubricant from the lock.
• Remove rust: If the lock is rusty, use a household rust remover. Spray a little into the lock and let it sit. A wire or similar thin tool can be useful for scraping off the rust.
• Lubricate the lock: After the lock has been cleaned and freed from rust, it must be lubricated. Use a graphite lubricant for this. This special lubricant is ideal for locks because it leaves no residue that can attract more dirt. Spray or sprinkle it in and insert the key into the lock several times and turn it to distribute the lubricant.
• Test the lock: After lubricating the lock, test it with the key. If it still sticks, repeat the process or consult a professional.

Note that with very old or damaged locks, you may need to install a new lock.