| 5 Things to Try When You Locked Yourself Out with The Key Left in the Door on The Other Side of the Lock! |
There are lots of ways to get locked out of your home or business. While the most common scenarios happen when you lose a key, one of the most frustrating types of lockouts happens when you can’t get back in because you’ve left the key on the other side of the door.
While many people will call a locksmith in these scenarios, there are other things you can try. Here are the five best things to try when you’re locked out with the key left on the other side of the door.
How do lockouts with the key on the other side of the door happen?
Lockouts with the key left in the door on the other side most often happen with the following doors:
- Euro cylinder locks on uPVC doors.
- Multi-Point Lock (uPVC Doors).
- Night latches (Yale-type).
- Mortice deadlocks.
- Auto-deadlocking night latches.
The problem typically arises because the internal key blocks the mechanism, preventing entry from the outside, even with another key. This scenario is especially common during quick trips outside, rushed or hurried moments, or the force of habit of leaving the key in the inside lock.
OK, so now you understand why these lockouts happen, it’s time to think about the solution.
1. Check Alternative Entry Points
Before you do anything drastic, take a walk around your property. You’d be surprised how often a back door, window, or even a garage side door is left unlocked.
If you live with others, call or text them to see if they have a spare key nearby. Alternatively, a neighbour or landlord might be the best and easiest way to get your hands on a key. This is the safest and quickest way in, so always check first.
PRO TIP
Always ensure you’re not putting yourself at risk by climbing or forcing entry through high or awkward windows.
2. Push the Inside Key Out and Retrieve It
Most standard cylinder locks allow a key to be pushed out from the other side if there’s nothing blocking its movement. However, it’s important to note that some high-security locks prevent this.
The gap under the door and the design of the keyhole are crucial to the success of this technique.
How to push the inside key out of the lock and get it back into your hands.
- Slide a catcher under the door: Use a stiff piece of paper, a magazine, or a thin tray. The goal is to create a smooth surface for the key to land on.
- Push the key: Insert a thin, rigid object (like a knitting needle, skewer, or straightened wire) through the keyhole. Carefully push the key until it falls out.
- Retrieve the key: Gently pull your catcher back under the door, hopefully with the key on top.
This process will only work for specific types of doors that have a thin gap underneath. Essentially, if it’s the type of door you can slide a letter under, then you’ve got a chance. If your door is not like this, move on to step 3.
PRO TIP
Be gentle: Excessive force can jam the key further or damage the lock.
3. Use a Letterbox Tool
Letterboxes provide a direct opening to the inside of your door. With the right tool, you can manipulate the key, the handle, or even the lock itself.
DIY Approach:
- A wire coat hanger, a telescopic magnet, or even a long wooden spoon can work. The tool needs to be long, thin, and strong enough to reach and move the key or handle.
- Insert the tool through the letterbox and try to hook or nudge the key.
- If your handle is within reach, you might be able to depress it and open the door.
PRO TIP
Locksmiths use specialised tools designed to gain entry to doors through the letterbox space. The reason these tools exist is to avoid damaging your door or lock. This tip underlines the need for a gentle touch if you’re trying to remove or recover the key.
4. Try the Credit Card or Plastic Card Trick
This classic trick exploits the mechanics of a spring latch lock. The latch is angled, so when you insert a flexible card between the door and frame, you can push the latch back and open the door. Please note, this technique won’t work with a deadlock.
Here’s how it works:
- Use a stiff, flexible card you don’t mind damaging. We’d recommend an old loyalty card rather than a fresh debit card.
- Slide the card between the door and frame, just above the latch.
- Bend the card toward the latch while applying gentle pressure to the door. The card should slip behind the latch and retract it.
- Once the latch retracts, push the door open.
PRO TIP
Many new lock models come with anti-shim features or reinforced strike plates that block this method. If you encounter resistance, don’t force it and move on to the next step.
5. Call a Professional Locksmith
If you’ve tried the above methods without joy, or if your lock is a high-security model, it’s time to call a pro. Locksmiths have the tools and expertise to open almost any door with minimal or no damage.
Why calling a locksmith is the right move
- Most locksmiths use specialised tools, like air wedges, lock picks, or bypass tools, to open doors without harming the lock or door.
- Some locksmiths offer 24/7 emergency service and can arrive within about 20 minutes..
- A good locksmith will advise on lock upgrades, key safes, or security improvements to prevent future lockouts.
Final thoughts
As you can see from our list of 5 things to try when you’re locked out with the key left in the other side of the door, most of the solutions rely on you having an older style lock. If you have a more modern or high-tech security setup, your best option is to contact a local locksmith.
