HomeEasy10 min
Free a sticky interior door latch
Clean and lubricate an interior latch that sticks while the door is open.
Every step has an illustration. Follow the written instructions and safety notes as your guide.
Take it one step at a time
Repair steps
Step 1
Open the door and move the handle slowly to see whether the latch bolt retracts smoothly.
Step 2
Wipe dust from the visible latch face and check that the strike plate is not loose.
Step 3
Tighten a loose strike-plate screw gently and apply a small amount of suitable dry lubricant to the latch bolt.
Step 4
Work the handle several times with the door open, then close the door gently and check the latch.
