How to open a door lock without a key in 5 seconds with these 6 effective ways

Key loss is probably one of the most common locksmith issues to exist. As a company with years of experience, we deal with it on a daily basis.

Usually, we notice that our key is missing only when we're already in front of our locked door. In most cases, situations like that occur at the most inconvenient times. When we're really in a rush and need to resolve the issue immediately. However, not all people areall people are aware of different wayshow to unlock the door without a key. Actually, it's possible to do that with the help of some things that are at hand. Today, we want to present you with 6 effective ways to unlock the door in case you don't have a key.

How to open a locked door using a bobby pin

One of the easiest methods you’ve probably heard of is using a simple bobby pin. While it's a common option, many people still wonder how to unlock a door with a simple bobby pin. Here’s how you can do it: grab two bobby pins that you can bend. First, take off the little round tips on the ends. Then, straighten one pin and bend the other into an ‘L’ shape. Stick the straight pin into the lock and feel around for the first pin inside. Once you’ve got it, use the L-shaped pin to lift it. Keep doing this for each pin in the lock. When they’re all lined up, you’ll be able to turn the lock and open the door.

Bobby pins work best on basic pin tumbler locks, but if the door has a more complex or modern mechanism, this trick might not work. Even though the process sounds simple, it does take some patience and practice.

How to open a locked door using a bobby pin

Bonus tip: avoid pushing the bobby pins too hard, or you might end up damaging the lock. If that has already happened, it's recommended to contact a professional locksmith for help.

How to unlock a door without a key using a screwdriver

If you happen to have a screwdriver somewhere in your car or garage, for example, you can also use it to unlock the door. To make this method work, you have to insert a screwdriver into the space between the frame and the door itself, where the handle is. Try turning it anti-clockwise and then clockwise until you hear a clicking sound. If your try turns out to be successful, the door will open.

Also, you can use a screwdriver to open an interior door lock. For example, if a door equipped with a thumb-turn lock accidentally slams and you want to open it from the outside, you can use a screwdriver to turn it.

How to open a door lock without a key using a knife

A knife is one of the tools that you might happen to have somewhere nearby in case an emergency with your lock occurs. You can even borrow one from your neighbor if there's an issue with your house door lock. How can you apply it?

In order to open the door, you'll need to insert the knife between the door and the jamb and slide it through. Try applying some pressure at the door when doing it. However, if you do it with too much force, there's a risk of damaging the lock. If you're not 100% sure you can do it carefully, consider using professional residential locksmith services to unlock your door.

How to open a locked door using a credit card

You’ve probably seen someone use a credit card to unlock a door in the movies at least once. This method is pretty similar to the knife trick we described earlier. Since most people always have a credit card on them, it’s often the easiest option. All you need to do is slide the card through the gap between the door and the frame, right where the latch is.

This trick works best on doors with spring bolt latches. Also, consider using a sturdy, laminated card, which will work better than a flimsy one. Slide it in at a slight angle and press it against the latch. Then, bend the card away from the door while pushing forward to compress the latch and unlock the door. Keep in mind that this might mess up the card, so it’s better to use one you don’t care about bending or scratching.

How to open a locked door using a credit card

Lock picking

You can also try using various lock-picking tools and techniques. In order to complete this process correctly, you need to learn a lot of information about lock picking. You'll need to purchase special equipment as well. In general, you have to practice a lot and develop professional skills in order to open your lock with a pick and not damage it.

If you're not really sure you can do it yourself, it's always better to use the assistance of a skilled technician.

Remove the hinges

Removing the hinges is another way to get into your house if you're locked out and don't have a key. You'll need a screwdriver to take out the bolts and lift the door off the hinges. Even though it’s an effective method, this should be a last resort if nothing else works.

Start by tapping out the hinge pins with a screwdriver and hammer, beginning at the bottom and working your way up. Be careful with the last pin, as the door could fall unexpectedly. Once the pins are out, just pull the door away from the frame to get inside.

Keep in mind that this method won't work if the door has additional security features, like a chain lock or deadbolt.

Summing up

A lost or forgotten key is not the end of the world. There are several methods to unlock your door, even if you don't have a key. You can use pins, credit cards, knives, etc. However, all these methods still require certain skills and knowledge.

If you're not really confident in what you're doing, you can always ask a professional for help. Sure Lock & Key will gladly assist you with that.

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