We have all been there; the frustration of being locked out of your home/office. We’ve all been there. You have a million thoughts rushing through your mind, and your heart is racing, and your first instinct is “how the hell do I get through this locked door?” If you’ve ever been caught in this dilemma, you’re not alone.
The good news is that there are a few common ways to unlock a door without the correct key. Now, these techniques can get the job done temporarily, but more often than not, calling in the professionals with a bit of experience, like a locksmith, is the smartest move. We’ll also give you some proactive tips to help you avoid getting locked out in the future.
Using Bobby Pins
How to Unlock a Door With Bobby Pins
Bobby pins are not only for styling hair. They can also be useful when you’ve locked yourself out. This technique is a popular fan-made hack that people often see in motion pictures.
- Tools Needed: Two bobby pins.
- Step-by-Step Instructions:
Preparing the Pins: Take one bobby pin and bend it into an ‘L’ shape, and take the other and straighten it out, make a slight bend at the end. If the pins have round tips, cut them off if you can.
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Picking the Lock:
Insert the L-shaped pin on the bottom of the lock.
- Use the non-pointy side of the straightened pin to probe and nudge each pin within the lock up and out of the way. Work slowly and carefully.
- Once all of the pins are aligned, turn the lock, and open.
These steps can be complicated to follow without something to look at. You might look for images or GIFs that demonstrate each step.
Using a Screwdriver
Unlock a Door Without a Key Using a Screwdriver
- When it comes to unlocking a door, a screwdriver can be a powerful tool, primarily if it’s an interior door or a door with a privacy handle.
- WHAT YOU’LL NEED: A flathead screwdriver.
- Step-by-Step Instructions:
- How to: Insert the screwdriver between the door and the frame near the latch.
- Tip and Listen: Turn the screwdriver slowly until you hear a click or feel the latch pop.
Employing a Knife
- How to Open a Door Lock Without Key with Knife
- In some circumstances (and with the right kind of knife) you can open a door with a simple kitchen implement.
- Tools Required: A knife with a dull blade (butter knife suggested).
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Inserting the Knife: Slip the knife between the door and frame at the point of the latch.
- Under Pressure: Make contact with the latch and give the door a push.
- Wiggle: Wiggle the knife a bit to got latch compression.
Using a Credit Card
How to Unlock a Door with a Credit Card
You may have heard that you can unlock a door with a credit card — and although it sounds like a myth, it can actually work if the door has a slanted latch bolt.
Card Selection: Use a flexible, yet strong card. You must not use significant cards such as your credit or debit card, with this, the card could be spoiled.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Showing the Card: Slide it between door and frame at latch.
- Leverage: Tip the card and press on the latch and then push the door.
- Card Bending Technique: For greatest effect, bend the card away from the door.
Coat Hanger or Paper Clip
- Alternative Tools: Unlocking a Door Using a Coathanger or Paperclip
- Sometimes a coat hanger or paper clip may be your best option.
Tools Needed:
- Coat Hanger: A straight piece of metal with a small hook on the end.
- Paper Clip: Bent in the form of a little hook.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
If This Is Really The Only Solution You Have, Use A Coat Hanger: You can slip an Allen key, or other rigid metal object into the crevice between the door and the frame, and rotate it, engaging the locking mechanism.
- Paper Clip: Place the paper clip in the keyway and push until the sticks lift.
- Avoid Lock Outs: Proactive Tips
- How to Avoid Lockouts: Key Safety Tips
- Here are some tips to help prevent getting locked out again:
- Keep a spare key with a trustworthy neighbour or friend.
- Invest in smart lock systems.
- Get in the habit of checking for your keys before you leave the house.
- Use key finders or trackers.
Conclusion
All of the methods we’ve talked about have their own way to unlock a door without a key. But always be cautious and know when to call a professional locksmith. Of course, prevention is always better than cure. Bottom line: store your keys safely to avoid getting locked out.
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