Loosen Stuck Window Locks & Latches With The Help Of A Popular Household Item

It's a scene all too familiar: One moment, you're reaching for windows to enjoy a breath of fresh air, but the next, you're battling with uncooperative locks where no amount of force can move them. Before you begin calculating window replacement costs, take a deep breath and analyze what's jamming your window latches. A recent paint job could've slammed your window shut, acquitting your locks of all blame and nudging you to work at the frame with a putty knife. However, if you can't remember the last time you cleaned and lubricated your window locks, use WD-40.

WD-40 is a versatile cleaning, degreasing, anti-corrosive, and lubricating spray that deeply penetrates stuck locks, latches, levers, and crank mechanisms to break down strong metal rust bonds. The spray also neutralizes any dust and grease buildup, which can free locks and allow previously stuck windows to function smoothly.

The first step to prying open stuck window latches and/or locks with WD-40 is to gather supplies, including an old toothbrush, dry cloth, vacuum cleaner, cleaning solution, WD-40, and safety gloves. Use the brush to scrape off the existing gunk and dirt from the lock or crank. But if the dust buildup is significant, consider using a vacuum cleaner. For stubborn grease stains, apply a cleaning solution and wipe it down with a cloth.

After cleaning, apply the multipurpose wonder spray all over the stuck window latch. You should also spray WD-40 on the window's hinges if you haven't lubricated them recently to reduce friction. However, ensure it doesn't get on the paint, lest it cause discoloration. Allow the handy fluid to work its magic over the next 24 hours.

For stuck window locks, use a similar approach to stuck window latches. If it is a keyed lock, though, use the key and rotate it a couple of times to ensure the fix-it fluid completely covers the internal mechanism, especially the pins and tumblers. Feel free to reapply the lubricant if the locks are still hard. If you're out of the spray, you can substitute WD-40 with petroleum jelly as well, and going forward, regularly open your windows and keep them muck-free to prevent them from jamming up again.