The $5 Kitchen Item That Fixes A Squeaky Door Better Than WD-40
You know that slow creak your door makes every time you try to sneak into the kitchen for a midnight snack? The one you've promised yourself you'd fix but never got around to? Turns out, you might not need to run to the hardware store to get the job done. A humble little item sitting in your pantry right now could do the trick just as well, if not better, than a can of WD-40. And no, it’s not motor oil or duct tape. It’s cooking spray. Seriously.
Why Cooking Spray Works So Well
Cooking sprays, like Pam, work as a lubricant because of their oil base. That oil slips right into the hinge pin and reduces friction the same way a traditional lubricant does. Plus, it doesn’t stink up your house, and it won’t drip all over the floor like heavier oils can. If anything, it smells a little like buttery popcorn, which isn’t the worst scent to have floating through the hallway when you’re fixing squeaky hinges.
How to Use It the Right Way
Grab your can of cooking spray and a rag or paper towel. Aim the spray at the top of the hinge, giving it a short, controlled spritz. You don’t need to use a lot. Then, slowly open and close the door a few times so the oil can work its way down into the hinge. Finally, wipe away any excess that drips out. That’s it! No tools and no mess required. Just a little cooking spray and a can-do attitude.
When It’s Better Than WD-40
WD-40 is great, but not always the most convenient. If you’ve run out, or just don’t feel like digging around the garage to find it, cooking spray can save the day. It’s also a better choice indoors where you don’t want a strong chemical smell hanging around. And unlike some heavier oil-based products, it won’t leave a sticky residue that collects dust over time. For squeaky doors that need a quick fix, it’s honestly a clever substitute.
The One Time You Shouldn't Use It
If your hinges are painted or antique, skip the cooking spray and go with something less likely to discolor the paint over time. Oil can break down paint or finishes if left to sit on surfaces. If this is your door, take the time to do it the old-fashioned way or use a silicone-based lubricant. But if your standard bathroom door squeals like a haunted house, give the spray a shot. Just don’t forget to wipe away the extra oil afterward.
Other Handy Uses in a Pinch
You can also use cooking spray to unstick stubborn locks, keep garden tools from rusting, and even help snow slide off a shovel in the winter. It’s one of those oddball products that is marketed to do one thing, but can secretly do a ton of other things. Once you’ve seen what it can do for your squeaky door, you’ll probably start looking at that can a little differently. Let us know in the comments if you want a full list of hacks you can do with cooking spray.
Related Articles
- 7 Ways You Can Use WD-40 In The Bathroom
- Why WD-40 Is Your Secret Weapon Against Spiders and Ants
- How Spraying Your Patio With Vinegar Helps Keep Spiders Away
Sometimes the best fixes are the ones hiding in plain sight. Cooking spray isn’t fancy, but it’s convenient and it gets the job done. Next time your door lets out that telltale groan, skip the trip to the hardware store. Just head to your kitchen, give the hinge a little spritz, and enjoy the sweet sound of silence. You’ll feel like a home maintenance magician, and your doors will thank you.
Bliss Donahue-Power
