Silence a Squeaky Hinge in Two Minutes

A door that announces every trip to the bathroom at night needs lubricant in the hinge — but spray oil drips onto the floor and door. Petroleum jelly is cleaner and lasts longer.

How to do it

1. Tap the hinge pin up from the bottom with a screwdriver and hammer, just enough to grab it.
2. Pull the pin out and coat it with petroleum jelly.
3. Slide it back in and swing the door a dozen times to spread it.
4. Wipe off any excess.

No petroleum jelly? A bar of soap rubbed on the pin or a few drops of dish soap will quiet it for a while. Do one hinge at a time so the door never comes off in your hands.