How To Care For Your Doorware

By David Goult | November 15, 2025.

Working Parts & Special Finishes

Doorware such as Door Handles, Locks, Knobs, Latches and Cylinders are usually made with superior quality materials and can have working parts and finishes that require special care and maintenance. Special problems can arise if these items are not carefully or correctly maintained.

Certain products require constant maintenance or they will unfortunately appear to oxidize. Another problem is that with incorrect cleaning, cylinder damage of the lock can happen.

Cleaning Doorware

Manufacturers suggest cleaning the handles, knobs, latches and backplates with a soft damp cloth and a weak solution of detergent or soap and water to help remove any build up of dirt and grime left behind by hands and the environment. Be careful on selection of cleaning product as some substances contain solvents and/or bleach and may cause deterioration of the finish. Also avoid abrasive cleaning cloths or sponges as these can scratch the surfaces. As well ensure any liquid does not enter the cylinder at any time.

Stainless Steel Maintenance

Blemishes and marks can appear on stainless steel products depending on the situational environment and use. Manufacturers suggest cleaning stainless steel items once a month with an approved stainless steel cleaner or polish. When using these products, ensure rubbing occurs in the same direction and not working against the grain.
Metal door handle on a wooden door

Keeping Locks Lubricated

Good quality locks are usually manufactured using a quality lubricant for smooth operation, but certain environments can affect the original lubricant. In this case the lock may require re-lubrication. The working mechanism can be cleaned with a non-corrosive substance and then re-lubricated with an appropriate lubricant. A quality silicone or teflon based lubricant should be used, avoiding use of oil or aerosol type lubricants. This service can be professionally done by a qualified locksmith who can also check the function of all your locks.

Treating Sticky Cylinders

Sometimes due to environmental conditions and/or age, keys can become ‘sticky’ in the door cylinder and as such hard to turn. In this situation, some maintenance is required to ‘loosen up’ the cylinder. One simple treatment is to sprinkle a small amount of graphite onto the key and then insert the key into the cylinder. Gently turn the key and the graphite should ‘lubricate’ the cylinder allowing for easier ‘turning’ and less ‘sticking’. Appropriate graphite products can be purchased from a locksmith, and again, avoid the use of oil or aerosol type lubricants, or any type of liquid, in the cylinder.

Peace of Mind

Servicing of locks and cylinders can be expertly performed by a qualified locksmith. Servicing of this kind can provide peace of mind by knowing that your locks have been professionally serviced and maintained. You can feel secure knowing that your doorware has been professionally maintained and your locks are doing what you want them to do!

Need Professional Help?

Call Blacks Mobile Locksmith, Beenleigh, on 07 3382 0755 and have your doorware professionally checked and serviced today!

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