DIY Security Systems
It has happened to most of us, our children, a relative or even a friend accidentally or intentionally locks a bedroom door and can’t get in or out. This situation may be annoying if it happens often, and in some cases, is dangerous. And learning how to pick a bedroom door lock using household items can be a handy skill.
If you do not have a key or the door may not take a key, how can you get in without destroying the door itself? To help you in this situation, here are some simple hacks on how to pick a bedroom door look using household items.
Identifying the Type of Door Lock
Before we proceed with these tips on how to open a bedroom door lock, let’s first identify the types of locks you’re dealing with. Most household privacy door knobs, also known as “bed and bath” doorknobs, have push buttons or twisting lock mechanisms inside. The exterior of the doorknob has a small round hole at the center that is designed for emergency access. You must know what kind of lock you are dealing with. If the doorknob has a keyhole rather than a hole, you’ll need to follow the steps on how to pick a bedroom door lock.
Picking the Pick
Before we with the steps on how to pick a bedroom door lock, you should find a proper item for picking the lock. You will need to find a long and thin object that’s tiny enough to fit into the hole, but strong enough to place pressure on the locking mechanism. Choices include a small screwdriver, a hex wrench, a heavy-duty paper clip, or a hairpin. You can also use a cotton swab with the cotton removed or a bamboo skewer.
Use a Pin or a Clip
If you’re going to use a hairpin or a paper clip, first bend it apart, so you have a long and straight piece of metal.Learning how to unlock a door using a bobby pin can be tricky.
If the lock has a push-button mechanism, insert the tool directly into the hole until you feel some resistance, then push. You should instantly hear a click indicating the lock is released.
If it has a twisting mechanism, you have to insert the pin into the keyhole and twist the knob while wiggling the pin at the same time until it catches on something, then apply pressure. You should hear a click that indicates the door is unlocked.
If you’re opening a twist-lock, you should sweep the item both clockwise and counter-clockwise until the lock releases.
Use a Card to Pick the Lock
Slide your card in between the frame and the door, above the door lock. Tilt it towards the knob and bend it to slide. Lean on the door while wiggling the card back and forth until the door unlocks. Use a card that you won’t mind even if it gets damaged. A loyalty card is the best choice, as it can be easily replaced than credit cards or identification cards.
Use a Knife
Another approach on how to pick a bedroom door lock is by using a knife. This method is very similar to the card method. Be careful in using a sharp knife as it might result in injury. You may use a butter knife or spreader, something that has no sharp blade. Place the knife between the door and the doorjamb, and slide it down quickly, while leaning against the door. It may take several tries, or you might need to slide upwards.
Remove the Knob
If you can’t unlock the door with the items above, remove the doorknob. Most privacy door knobs are held together by two visible screws. You can use a screwdriver to undo these. Once the screws are loosened, place the screwdriver into the lock of the door handle and twist it gently to release the lock.
You may need to apply some pressure to the knob by pulling on the loose screws. In some cases, the screws are hidden behind a decorative collar. If this is the case, remove them first by inserting a clip into the small hole of the collar or gently pry the collar with a flathead screwdriver.
Use this approach after trying to use a butter knife, a bobby pin, or a screwdriver, as this method takes the longest time. Find out more about Door Locks.
Conclusion
Whether your child has locked herself in the bedroom, or you walked out of the room only to realize that you’ve locked the door inside, chances are, you will find yourself on the wrong side of the locked door. Before calling out a locksmith for a conceivably expensive visit, try out these tips on how to pick a bedroom door lock using readily available household items. This guide will also prepare you when the need arises, and at the same time, let’s save you those extra bucks for calling a professional. Rest assured that if your bedroom door gets locked, there’s always a way to get in.