10 Fast Ways How to Lock a Door Without a Lock

Ever found yourself in a situation where you need to secure a door, but there’s no lock? Maybe you’re in a hotel, a dorm, or even at home with a broken lock. 

Don’t worry! 

There are plenty of quick and easy ways to add some extra security without installing a lock. Here are 10 effective methods how to lock a door without a lock.

1. Use a Chair

The classic chair trick works best with doors that open inward. Simply wedge the back of a sturdy chair under the doorknob at an angle. The pressure against the floor and the knob makes it harder to open from the outside.

2. Barricade with Heavy Objects

If a chair alone isn’t enough, stack heavy furniture against the door—like a dresser, couch, or even a pile of books. The more weight, the harder it will be to push the door open.

3. Use a Belt or Rope

If the door has a handle rather than a knob, loop a belt or rope through it and secure it to a heavy, fixed object like a bed frame or a sturdy table leg. This keeps the handle from turning and the door from opening.

4. Tie the Handles Together

For double doors or doors that open outward, use a belt, rope, or even shoelaces to tie the handles together tightly. This makes it nearly impossible to pull the doors open.

5. Jam the Door with a Fork

A simple but effective trick: bend the prongs of a metal fork, insert them into the latch hole, and break off the handle. Then, wedge the handle into the prongs, preventing the latch from moving.

6. Use a Door Wedge or Rubber Stopper

A rubber door stopper placed under the door can add serious resistance. If you don’t have one, try rolling up a towel tightly and wedging it under the door.

7. Hang a Belt Over the Hinge

For outward-opening doors with exposed hinges, loop a belt or rope over the top hinge and secure it tightly. This reduces the door’s ability to swing open.

8. Use a Portable Door Lock

If you travel often, investing in a portable door lock is a great idea. These small devices attach to the door and add an extra layer of security without installation.

9. Tape or Block the Latch

For doors with a standard latch, wrap a thick rubber band or tape around the latch to keep it from retracting. This makes it harder for someone to push the door open.

10. DIY a Barricade with a Broomstick

For sliding doors or doors with a gap underneath, a broomstick or long piece of wood placed at an angle against the handle can provide an extra barrier to opening the door.

FAQ: How to Lock a Door Without a Lock

Final Thoughts

There are many ways how to lock a door without a lock. Most of these solutions are temporary, while others are long-term.

In the home and elsewhere, locks are among the most essential security measures, so temporary solutions aren’t the most secure. Get instant surveillance on a phone, tablet, or computer with ZoomOn home security camera to significantly reduce vulnerability when your security is compromised.

Forced entry is deterred simply at the sight of a home security camera, while the built-in siren is a great way to frighten off would-be intruders and draw attention to the space. Stay safe and secure with the right tools at your disposal.