Pin Removal and Cleaning

Clean your hinges

Most door squeaks are caused by a build-up of dust and oxidised metal on the hinge pin. Close the door to take the weight off the hinges. Use a hammer and a flat-head screwdriver or a nail punch to tap the hinge pin upwards from the bottom. Do not remove all pins at once, or the door will fall. Start with the top hinge. Wipe the pin clean with a rag soaked in mineral spirits to remove the old, sticky grease. If there is heavy rust, use steel wool to polish the pin until it is smooth and shiny. This step is critical; applying new lubricant over dirt just creates a grinding paste that will worsen the issue. Once the pin is clean and dry, you are ready for proper lubrication.