Going on a vacation? How exciting!!!

But have you considered the security of your precious home in your absence? You are probably worrying about lock maintenance and other security tips so that you can enjoy your vacations worry-free.

In this blog, we will discuss the 7 best lock maintenance tips and some other security measures that you can consider to make your home theft-proof while away.

So, without any more time, let’s read further!

Top 7 Door Lock Maintenance Tips Before Leaving For a Trip

To avoid theft at home, it’s not just about locking the door and closing the windows. Here are 7 tips for home safety while on vacation you need to know:

1. Inspect Your Locks Thoroughly

Before leaving, check all entry points, including front and back doors, windows, and garage locks. Look for any signs of wear and tear, such as rust, loose screws, or difficulty in turning the key. If you notice any issues, repair or replace the locks immediately.

2. Lubricate Locks for Smooth Operation

A stiff or jammed door lock can be frustrating and vulnerable to break-ins. Apply a graphite-based lubricant or silicone spray to the keyhole and internal mechanisms to keep the lock functioning smoothly. Avoid using oil-based lubricants as they can attract dust and dirt.

3. Upgrade to Smart Locks

For enhanced security, consider installing smart locks before you leave. Smart locks offer remote access, temporary passcodes for trusted individuals, and real-time alerts. This way, you can monitor your home's security even while you're miles away.

4. Check Deadbolts and Strike Plates

Ensure your deadbolt locks are properly aligned and extend fully into the door frame. A loose or weak strike plate can make it easier for intruders to force the door open. Reinforce strike plates with longer screws (at least 3 inches) for added strength.

5. Hide or Secure Spare Keys

Never leave spare keys under doormats, flowerpots, or mailboxes. Instead, give them to a trusted neighbor or use a key lock box with a secure code. If you’ve lost track of spare keys, consider rekeying your locks before your trip.

6. Test Your Locking System

Before you leave, do a full security test. Lock all doors and windows and check if they latch properly. If you have a security system, ensure it's activated and working correctly.

7. Set Up a Backup Security Plan

If you're away for an extended period, ask a friend or neighbor to check on your home. Installing motion-sensor lights, security cameras, or alarm systems can deter potential burglars.

You can extend this safety measure to your vehicle’s security and install a car alarm.

Latest Read: How Much Does a Locksmith Cost in 2025 in India?

Additional Safety Measures to Safeguard Your House

When holidays come, people like to travel away from home. Holidays are also the most frequent season when thieves appear. In addition to the lock maintenance tips here are some home theft prevention safety measures:

1. Lock All The Doors

A big reason thieves break into your house and steal is that you give them a chance. Most of us often leave our doors unlocked as we go out to pick up packages or go downstairs to dispose of garbage. You will find the thieves sneaking into your home while you are away to steal.

On holiday, some families will take their respective families on travel or visits to kin. One should remember to close the house doors and windows at this time.

2. Prevent Break-ins

The holiday period is a period characterized by theft incidences. Several families are made to incur losses because they lack a high-quality anti-theft door.

When thieves see it, they find out whose doors and windows in the community are not firm enough and seize the opportunity to steal.

Pay attention to your home's door locks during the holiday period, as they need to be firm. If the door locks are old, they need to be replaced timely, or anti-theft door locks of your own home need to be replaced.

You can also enhance home security with smart door locks if conditions permit. Many highly secure smart password locks or door locks with fingerprint recognition are available on the market now.

3. The Thief Has Blocked the Lock Hole

These criminals like to enter the house, bring toothpicks or glue, block the lock hole afterward, and steal boldly. By the time the homeowner is down the stairs in search of his tools or a locksmith, this thief is getting away.

When you encounter such situations at home, you must guard the door and report it to the police or seek emergency locksmith services. Do not forcefully break the door lock or destroy the thief's fingerprints before the police arrive.

4. Don’t Throw the Keys Casually

Many children always casually throw their house keys around after opening the door, which often leads to the loss of the keys. Some parents often don't know where the keys have gone, which is something that everyone has a chance to face.

Besides using it daily, when keeping the keys at home, one must avoid placing them in places even a child would find obvious, such as in the cabinets at the door. Outlaw the access of outsiders to take the key away.

It is safer to walk out with the house keys, but if the keys are lost or misplaced, replacing the door locks in the house and replacing the cylinder in the locks should be performed in good time to avoid getting stolen.

5. Do Not Hide Spare Keys Casually

People like to tuck spare keys within the door frame, under the flower pot at the entrance, or under the carpet at the entrance. They believe it is convenient and can be used in emergency circumstances.

Once it falls into the hands of a thief, it may lead to grave consequences. Spare keys should not be handed casually but must be kept safely at the office, among trusted relatives, friends, etc.

6. Window Protection

Old locks on doors primarily cause most homes that have experienced holiday burglars or because the house floors are on a low level and the window locks do not meet standard requirements, giving a burglar an easy way to exploit.

The windows in our houses should be closed when we sleep or go out. For instance, when we place valuable items in our houses, these items should not be close to the window so the thief cannot steal anything during the holiday.

In case we need to do this, some flowers or blocks can be placed in front of the window to block the entrance of the thieves.

Wrapping Up!

Here, we have concluded the 7 best lock maintenance tips before you leave for a vacation and additional safety tips to protect your paradise in your absence.

Furthermore, for any locksmith-related needs, contact Keyenzy. We are a locksmith provider platform offering 24*7 services ranging from key repair, key replacement, access control system services, and more.

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And Wait! Have a safe Journey!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How often should I check and maintain my locks?

Ans: You should inspect and maintain your locks at least twice a year. However, if you are leaving for a vacation for a longer period of time, do thoroughly inspect your locks once and get them repaired in case of damage.

Q. What type of lubricant should I use for my locks?

Ans: Use lubricants or silicone spray to keep locks functioning smoothly. Try to avoid oil-based lubricants, as they can attract dust and debris, leading to clogging over time.

Q. Should I change my locks before going on vacation?

Ans: If your locks are old or damaged or if you've lost track of who has spare keys, it’s a good idea to rekey or replace them before traveling. This adds an extra layer of security.

Q. Are smart locks a good option for home security while on vacation?

Ans: Smart locks offer advanced security features like remote access, temporary passcodes, and real-time alerts. They allow you to monitor and control your locks from anywhere, making them a great choice for vacation security.