How to Unlock a Door with a Hole: Practical Methods and Tips

Published Date: Sep 8, 2025

Locked out of a room and noticed a small hole in the doorknob? That’s a common feature of many interior privacy locks, especially on bedroom and bathroom doors. Knowing how to unlock a door with a hole can help you handle these situations quickly and calmly. In this guide, Sure Lock & Key explains what these locks are, how to open them safely, and when it’s best to call a locksmith. Let’s take a closer look at your options.

What Is a Door Lock with a Hole?

Privacy locks with a hole are commonly found on interior doors, such as bathrooms and bedrooms, and are designed to provide basic privacy, not full security. They’re usually operated from the inside with a push-button or turn-style knob, while the small hole on the outside allows for quick unlocking in case someone gets accidentally locked in. Unlike keyed or pin-tumbler locks, these privacy locks can be opened with a simple flathead screwdriver or similar tool. The mechanism is intentionally straightforward, allowing for easy access in low-risk situations without damaging the door.

How to Unlock a Door with a Hole Lock: Step-by-Step

If you see a small round hole on the outside knob of a bedroom or bathroom door, you’re likely dealing with a keyless privacy lock. Here’s how to pick a lock with a hole safely.

Unlocking from the Outside

Grab a tool – A small flathead screwdriver or eyeglass repair tool works best. A firm, narrow rod can also work.
Align with the hole – Insert the tool straight into the center of the hole. You’re aiming to press a small release button or a slot inside.
Apply gentle pressure – Press inward until you feel or hear a click. This should release the lock.
Turn the knob – With the lock released, the knob should now turn easily and open the door.

This method works on most privacy locks with a release hole. If the tool feels too soft, switch to something sturdier. Also, avoid forcing anything — these mechanisms are meant to be delicate.

For more techniques using everyday items, see our related guide on how to pick a door lock with a paperclip.

If You’re Locked Inside

If the knob won’t turn, it could be due to a jammed latch or internal fault in the lock. While most guides focus on how to open a door lock with a hole from the outside, issues can also happen when you’re stuck inside.

Try turning it gently while pushing or pulling the door to relieve pressure on the latch.
If that doesn’t work and no one outside can help, you may need to contact a professional locksmith to avoid damaging the door.

Avoid using force or trying to disassemble the knob from the inside — this can cause damage or make the lock harder to open. A locksmith can handle the issue quickly and without harming the door.

When DIY Works — And When to Call a Locksmith

Unlocking a door with a hole is usually safe when it’s an interior privacy lock (like for a bathroom or bedroom). However, there are times when it’s best not to try unlocking it yourself.

Call a professional if:

The door is stuck or the knob doesn’t turn after unlocking
You’re dealing with a damaged or unfamiliar lock
The door leads to a shared or restricted space
You’re unsure about the lock type or don’t want to risk damage

In those situations, trying to force the lock could break internal parts or scratch the door. That’s when it’s best to reach out to an emergency locksmith for fast, damage-free help.

Need Local Help? We’re Always Nearby

If you’re locked out or dealing with a stubborn lock, professional help might be your best option. Sure Lock & Key has over 35 years of experience handling everything from basic privacy locks to high-security systems. Whether it’s a late-night issue or a routine lock fix, we’ve got you covered.

We serve homes and businesses across Connecticut, New York, Rhode Island, Illinois, Florida, Texas, Alabama, and Arizona — and we’re always expanding. To find a locksmith near you, visit our locations page or give us a call today.

It’s a common moment: you or someone in your home accidentally gets locked in or out of the bathroom because of a stuck knob or a faulty privacy lock. Whether you’re dealing with a jammed door handle with a push-button lock or a child accidentally locked inside, this guide from Sure Lock & Key will walk you through easy, gentle steps to regain access without causing damage. We’ll explain how to unlock a bathroom door push-button lock using common household items, and when it’s best to call for emergency locksmith help.

How to Unlock a Circle Door Lock: Simple Tools & Safe Techniques

Getting locked out of a room with a circle door lock can catch anyone off guard. These locks, often found on bathroom and bedroom doors, are designed for privacy, not high security. That’s why they’re usually easy to unlock — if you know the trick. In this guide, Sure Lock & Key shares how to unlock a door with a circle lock in a few simple ways, without damaging the knob or frame. Whether it’s in your home, office, or rental unit, the tips below can come in handy.

How to Unlock a Turn Lock Door: Safe Methods for Interior Locks

Getting locked out of a room can be frustrating, especially when it’s a bathroom or bedroom door with a twist or turn-style lock. If you’re stuck wondering how to unlock a turn lock door without causing damage, it’s easier than you might think. This guide, based on the experience of professionals at Sure Lock & Key, outlines several quick, damage-free methods to assist you.