Locksmith Life Hacks: Tips to Keep Your Keys and Locks in Check!

As locksmiths, we’ve seen it all—keys stuck in locks, broken-off bits in the ignition, and even the mysterious case of keys that seem to sprout legs and wander off. Whether you're a seasoned key handler or someone who often hears, “Wait… where did I put my keys?” we’ve got you covered! Here are some locksmith life hacks to save the day.

1. The Trusty Duplicate Key

You know that second key you got when you first moved in? Yeah, it’s not just a backup—it’s your lifeline. Keep a duplicate key outside your home, but please, for the love of locks, don’t hide it under the doormat! Get creative. Maybe it’s in a magnetic box under your car or stashed with a trustworthy neighbor. Just make sure you don’t need a locksmith to help you unlock your hiding spot.

2. When in Doubt, Lube it Out!

Is your lock feeling a bit sticky? Sometimes, locks get gross and gunked up, making it harder to turn the key. Instead of wrestling with it like it’s a door to a secret dungeon, a little lubricant can save the day. Just a quick spray in the keyhole, and voilà—smooth as butter! (Note: Butter is not an actual lock lubricant, despite what you may have heard.)

3. Key Ring Minimalism

We all know someone who carries 20 keys on a ring the size of a small Frisbee. If that’s you, consider cutting down. Your ignition and locks will thank you for not stressing them out with all that extra weight. Plus, losing one small key is bad enough—losing a dozen? That’s just tragic.

4. The Bobby Pin “Oops” Solution

Ever get locked out and realize you’ve seen enough spy movies to think you can pick a lock with a bobby pin? While it may work (eventually), it’s better to call in the pros before you end up reenacting a heist movie in your front yard. And hey, bobby pins are better for hair than home security anyway!

5. Use Tech to Track Those Wandering Keys

Keys are sneaky little devils, always finding the least expected places to hide. Invest in a key tracker! These nifty gadgets will beep, buzz, or even send a notification to your phone when your keys slip into a couch cushion or migrate on top of the microwave (No, I'm totally not speaking from personal experience...).

6. Deadbolt Dilemmas Solved

Got a deadbolt that’s just not cutting it anymore? Before you rush to replace it, try checking if the screws are loose or if the door frame is out of alignment. Sometimes, all it needs is a little TLC and a few twists of a screwdriver. Quick fixes like these can save you from shelling out on new hardware.

7. The Emergency Contact Every Home Needs

Program a locksmith’s number into your phone now—yes, right now! Here's a freebie, NWI Locksmiths, 219-801-5625! (Shameless plug. What? It's our blog!) You never know when you’ll need to get into your house after locking yourself out in pajamas (we don’t judge). It’s way easier to hit “dial” than to Google “locksmith near me” in the middle of the night.