What grease should I use on my garage door?

While there are many types of lubricants that may seem suitable for a garage door -- after all, lubrication is the goal -- not all lubes are created equally. They may be spray-based or liquid, and some are messier than others. A lubricant designed specifically for garage doors is formulated to protect and penetrate a variety of parts without causing a mess as it dries into a nonsticky substance. If garage door lubricant isn't readily available, several other lubricants will get the job done.

1. 1.

   Vacuum the garage door track area if it is dirty. Wipe the inside of the track with rags to help remove caked-on debris. Apply a drop of engine oil to the inner area of each roller, then move the garage door to open and closed position several times to work the oil into the bearings. Do not oil the track, as this may attract dirt and debris which inhibits performance.

2. 2.

   Apply white lithium grease, available in a spray can, to all metal moving parts on a garage door. Spray minimal amounts out at first to avoid drips, moving the garage door or specific parts, such as a handle, to work the lube into the piece. Lubricate the chain or screw of the garage door opener mechanism as well. Reapply once a year or as needed.

3. 3.

   Squirt a garage door lube onto all moving metal parts and mechanisms on the garage door, including hinges, latches and garage door opener chains. The garage door lube, depending on brand, may include a thin straw applicator on a movable mechanism; use this to spray the liquid into tight spaces or pinpointed locations. Some garage door lubes also help prevent corrosion and rust.

   I took several factors into consideration when compiling this list of the top garage door lubricants. First, I made sure to include products that were specifically designed for garage doors as opposed to general-use lubricants. I looked at name brands and focused on manufacturers that are well known with reputations for producing high-quality products. 

   I was unable to hand test all of the items on this list, so I looked at consumer feedback to see how these formulas perform in real-world conditions. I made sure to include lubricants made of different ingredients to suit a wide range of needs. I also included an eco-friendly option because I am cognizant of the fact that many people prefer to use non-toxic products that are safe for the environment as well as themselves. For more information on The Drive’s methodology, go here.

   

   Our reviews are driven by a combination of hands-on testing, expert input, “wisdom of the crowd” assessments from actual buyers, and our own expertise. We always aim to offer genuine, accurate guides to help you find the best picks.

   Best Garage Door Lubricants Reviews & Recommendations

   Specs

   • Brand: 3-IN-ONE
   • Application: Spray
   • Type: N/A
   • Size: 11 ounces

   Pros

   • Easy to use
   • Quick results
   • Prevents rust and corrosion
   • No messy residue

   Cons

   • Can drip if applied improperly
   • Ingredients unknown
   
   If you're looking for an affordable product that's easy to use and works quickly to quiet a noisy garage door, check out the 3-in-1 Garage Door Lube. With regular use, the 11-ounce can helps both residential and commercial garage doors open and close more smoothly. Simply spray the product on chains, hinges, latches, pulleys, rollers, and tracks. In addition to making operation more fluid and tackling doors that stick or squeak, the lubricant prevents rust and corrosion. One of the formula's best qualities is that it dries fast and does not produce a messy residue. In addition, it's designed to minimize dust buildup. The can comes with a straw that produces both a precise stream and fan-shaped spray for convenience. However, you have to be careful during application because it may drip if you spray too much. The product also does not list its ingredients.

   Specs

   • Brand: Blaster Chemical Company
   • Application: Spray
   • Type: Silicone
   • Size: 9.3 ounces

   Pros

   • Prevents rust and corrosion from forming
   • Does not attract dust and dirt
   • Minimizes friction and wear

   Cons

   • Messy and can drip during application
   • May not be suitable for certain opener drives
   
   A squeaking and groaning garage door is no match for Blaster Garage Door Lubricant. This silicone-based formula tackles noisy garage doors and also prevents rust and corrosion from forming. After application, the formula leaves behind a tack-free film that is designed not to attract dust and other contaminants. It can be used on various parts of a garage door, including the hinges, springs, tracks, cables, chains, bearings, and bushings. The formula includes Teflon fluoropolymer to minimize friction and wear, which can lengthen the door's lifespan. With regular application, it provides a protective film that stops squeaks. However, it can drip during application, and it can be a little messy overall. Also, you should not use it on opener drives unless the garage door opener manual says it's safe to do so.

   Specs

   • Brand: Leafy
   • Application: Spray
   • Type: Mineral oil
   • Size: 4 ounces

   Pros

   • Non-toxic
   • Stops squeaking
   • Prevents rust formation
   • Quick results

   Cons

   • You must repeatedly depress the button for application
   
   If you're looking for an environmentally friendly product, consider the Leafy Garage Door Lubricant. It’s mineral oil-based and is non-toxic, nor does it emit any VOCs, which are chemicals that have been associated with adverse health effects. You can use this product to stop doors from creaking and squeaking and to prevent rust formation. It's safe to use on chains, hinges, tracks, and more. The clear lubricant removes dirt, salt, and water and makes it easier for doors to slide open smoothly without sticking. Leafy Garage Door Lubricant provides near-instant results and works in temperatures from -35 degrees Fahrenheit to 180 degrees Fahrenheit. The pump is easy to use; however, you have to keep pressing the button down continually for even application. This repetitive pumping can be a bit of a hassle.

   Specs

   • Brand: UniSport
   • Application: Oil
   • Type: N/A
   • Size: 8 ounces

   Pros

   • Works on garage doors, hinges, locks, and more
   • Very little needed for good results
   • Long-lasting
   • Prevents rust formation

   Cons

   • Ingredients aren’t listed on product
   
   UniSport's Door, Lock, and Hinge Lubricant is a multipurpose formula that is designed to tackle squeaky garage doors as well as stuck and stiff sliding doors, locks, hinges, and more. You don't need to use a lot of this product in order to get results. Once you apply the oil, it lasts a long time, and it works in temperatures between -35 degrees Fahrenheit and 180 degrees Fahrenheit for year-round use. The formula includes rust inhibitors to prevent corrosion and garage door components from improperly functioning. Since it's not a spray, you don't have to worry about inhaling noxious fumes. Its ingredients don't contain any harmful or toxic elements either. In addition, it's designed not to attract dirt and debris, and it doesn't emit a strong odor.

   Specs

   • Brand: Leafy
   • Application: Spray
   • Type: Mineral oil
   • Size: 4 ounces

   Pros

   • Non-toxic
   • Stops squeaking
   • Prevents rust formation
   • Quick results

   Cons

   • You must repeatedly depress the button for application
   
   If you want a product that cleans and lubricates, 400-HD National Door Lube will produce the results you want. This heavy-duty, non-silicone lubricant has been dubbed "Tune-Up in a Can," is popular among professional garage door installers, and is designed specifically for garage door components. It makes garage doors open and close smoothly and can be used on "frozen" parts such as threads, bearings, and other components. This formula also prevents rust and corrosion from forming and is dust- and dirt-resistant. The product also sets itself apart with its three-way nozzle, which can be adjusted to spray in a fine mist or a stream. One downside is that it produces a strong smell that can take a few days to dissipate.

   Specs

   • Brand: GREASECO
   • Application: Spray
   • Type: Lithium grease
   • Size: 12 ounces

   Pros

   • Works on a variety of items in addition to garage doors
   • Prevents rust and corrosion from forming
   • Non-staining
   • Does not easily wash away

   Cons

   • Cap can be difficult to remove
   • Tip may clog
   
   Why purchase multiple products for multiple projects when you can invest in one item with a versatile application? GREASECO's White Lithium Aerosol Spray Grease is designed for home, garage, automotive, and light industrial use. We like this option because you can use it for a variety of purposes, which makes it a great value. You can apply the spray on loud and squeaky garage doors, overhead tracks, hinges, latches, bicycle parts, motorcycle parts, springs, construction equipment, household doors, etc. This light-duty lithium grease is non-staining and designed to prevent rust and corrosion from forming. Users like that this grease does not easily wash out. It's also a white creamy color, so you can visually tell where you apply it.

   Specs

   • Brand: Cloplay
   • Application: Spray
   • Type: N/A
   • Size: 9 ounces

   Pros

   • Drip-less formula
   • Easy to use
   • Anti-friction properties
   • Long-lasting results

   Cons

   • Item is smaller than some rival brands
   • Requires regular shaking during application
   
   The Clopay Pro Lube for Garage Doors quiets your garage door and helps it run more smoothly on its tracks. It does a great job of lubricating hinges, rollers, springs as well as the chain drive mechanism. Unlike some other options, this formula is less likely to drip onto the floor. It's easy to use and includes anti-friction properties to provide long-lasting results. In addition to garage doors, you can use this for other home, automotive, and marine applications. The Synthetic Pro Lube for Garage Doors does not include CFCs, HCFCs, or harmful solvents. It is rust-resistant, and the nine-ounce can comes with a spray applicator as well as an extension tube to get into hard-to-reach areas. However, you may have to shake it continually while you're using it. It can also easily clog.

   Our Verdict on Garage Door Lubricants

   Garage Door Lubricants Pricing 

   Garage door lubricants can be very reasonably priced as evidenced by our top three picks, 3-IN-ONE Garage Door Lubricant, Blaster Chemical Company 9.3 Oz Garage Door Lubricant Spray, Leafy Garage Door Lubricant, which all cost less than $10. These budget-friendly options are on the lower end of the price range yet they effectively do a good job of preventing garage doors from squeaking and rust from forming. Some products that are designed for heavy-duty use or more commercial applications tend to cost a little more. These premium products may feature larger quantities and/or be designed for professional use. 

   FAQs 

   You’ve got questions. The Drive has answers.

   Q: What is the best lubricant for a garage door opener?

   A: The best way to lubricate your garage door is with a silicone spray. The small nozzle will be able to reach door locks and key slots with ease.

   Q: How often should you lubricate your garage door?

   A: Depending on the amount of use, garage door hinges, rollers, springs, and tracks should be lubricated every 90 days.

   Q: How can I make my garage door quieter?

   A: Lubricating the moving parts can make a garage door a little less noisy. Also consider tightening loose nuts and bolts, replacing the rollers or springs, and/or installing a quiet door opener.

   What kind of grease do you use on a garage door?

   The answer is that silicone lubricants are some of the best products you can use when lubricating your garage door. When shopping for silicone lubricants, look for the phrase “silicone spray.” Many cans come equipped with a thin, straw-like nozzle for accurate spraying.

   Is silicone or lithium grease better for garage doors?

   Silicone sprays are considered the best lubricants for garage doors because they are easy to apply, can withstand extreme temperatures and resist moisture. Lithium greases are also popular because they are excellent at preventing friction between moving parts.

   What is the best grease to use on garage door rollers?

   Always use a lithium- or silicone-based grease to lubricate your rollers. When applying the lubrication, you'll want to have a cloth handy to wipe up any drips. You may also want to put down a drop cloth or tarp to protect the floor of your garage from grease stains.

   Should you grease your garage door?

   It is important to lubricate all moving parts of your garage door every six months including the garage door track. Make sure you're using an all-weather product, since low temperatures can cause lubricants to become thick and viscous. This makes it harder to open and close the door.