How to Fix a Squeaky Door Hinge

Apply lubricant to the hinge pins and pivot points, or remove the pin completely to clean and lubricate thoroughly.

1. Remove Years of Gunk First. Wipe down the entire hinge with a damp cloth to remove dirt, dust, and old grease buildup. Use an old toothbrush to scrub around the pin and pivot points where grime tends to accumulate.
2. Silence It in Seconds. Spray a small amount of penetrating oil or household lubricant directly onto the hinge pin and where the hinge leaves meet. Work the door back and forth several times to distribute the lubricant. This often solves the problem immediately.
3. Extract the Culprit Cleanly. If the squeak persists, tap out the hinge pin using a hammer and nail set or punch. Start from the bottom and work upward. Some pins have a small tab that needs to be lifted first.
4. Restore the Pin Completely. Clean the pin with steel wool to remove rust and old lubricant. Apply a thin coat of white lithium grease or machine oil to the entire pin. Wipe excess lubricant from the pin before reinstalling.
5. Verify Perfect Silence. Slide the pin back into the hinge from the top, tapping gently with a hammer if needed. Open and close the door several times to ensure smooth, quiet operation.