Quiet that squeaky interior door.

A door squeak often starts at a hinge. For an ordinary interior door that opens and closes normally, a little cleaning and a suitable hinge lubricant may help. Specialty, concealed and self-closing hinges can need different care, so check their instructions first.

What you’ll need

• Clean cloth
• Drop cloth
• Hinge-compatible lubricant

Take it step by step

1. Open and close the door slowly to locate the noise. Keep fingers clear of the hinge and watch for a hinge pulling away from the frame.
2. Protect the floor and nearby painted trim with a drop cloth. Wipe dirt off the outside of the hinge so it does not get carried into the moving parts.
3. Check the hinge and lubricant instructions. Apply a small amount only where allowed, keeping it off painted surfaces and following the label’s ventilation directions.
4. Move the door gently several times to work the lubricant into the moving joint. Wipe away drips so they do not attract dust.
5. Listen again. If the door still binds, sags or scrapes, stop adding lubricant and get the alignment or hardware checked.

When to ask for help

Get help if the frame is damaged, screws are pulling out or the door has suddenly started sticking. Do not remove hinge pins from a heavy or self-closing door for this quick fix.