How to remove a key that broke in the lock: 5 tips to avoid disassembling everything

Minor incidents occur on a daily basis, whether due to negligence, manufacturing defects or hastily. One of these common situations is the breaking of keys, leaving them housed in locks.

The dilemma is intensifying when it comes to the key to your home. However, before rushing to call a professional locksmith, you may want to try these do-it-yourself tactics to release a trapped key without removing the lock.

If the door is locked:

1. Magic of the magnet

Required: A powerful magnet.

Procedure: Apply a lubricant to the button. Position the magnet close to the key; it must hook up to the magnet, which allows easy extraction.

2. Accuracy with clamps

Required: Fabriced toilet clamp or scissors.

Procedure: After lubricating around the key, use the clamp or scissors to carefully grasp the protruding part of the key. Try gently to remove the key, taking care to avoid pushing it deeper into the lock.