Quiet a squeaky interior door hinge

Before you start

Try this on an ordinary interior door whose hinges are firmly attached. Open the door a little and hold it still while listening close to each hinge during a short swing. A creak from wood rubbing at the jamb points to a fit problem. Check the hinge maker’s care instructions if you can identify it.

Tools and materials

• Lubricant labelled for door hinges
• Cloth
• Paper towel

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   Locate the squeak

   Open and close the door slowly and listen at each hinge. Check that the hinge leaves sit flush and the screws look secure.

2. 2

   Protect the area

   Hold a paper towel below the noisy hinge and wipe dust from around the pin.

3. 3

   Apply a little lubricant

   Following the product directions, apply a small amount where the pin meets the hinge knuckles.

4. 4

   Work it in

   Swing the door several times, wipe away drips and listen again.

Check the result

Swing the door through its normal range two or three times. A treated hinge should move quietly without oily marks below it. If the sound comes from the latch or the door edge instead, look for a shiny rub mark on the frame before treating any more hinges.