Rub bar soap or candle wax on hinge pins.

Bar soap and candle wax act as temporary dry lubricants that can quiet a squeaky hinge in a pinch. This is a quick household fix using items most people already have on hand.

Steps

1. Remove the hinge pin if possible, or access the pin in place
2. Rub a dry bar of soap or candle wax along the full length of the pin
3. Also apply soap or wax inside the hinge knuckle
4. Reinsert the pin and swing the door back and forth to distribute

Limitations

• Temporary fix — soap and wax wear off within weeks and will need reapplication
• Less effective than silicone spray, lithium grease, or graphite for long-term results
• Best used as an emergency or stopgap measure until a proper lubricant is available

Best For

Quick fixes when no other lubricant is available, or for doors that are seldom used.