Different Types of Bathroom Door Locks

Bathrooms are places of solitude and, in many ways, quiet reflection. They’re private sanctums, definitely not the kind of place anyone would appreciate intrusions. This makes securing the entry door to a bathroom extremely important. Here’s all you need to know about bathroom door style locks to help you make the right choice while renovating your bathroom.

Different types of bathroom locks

While choosing a lock for your bathroom door, you will be looking for a lock that has certain important attributes.

You will want a door lock that is easy to use and secure at the same time. with mechanisms that are simple to operate, whether pushed or turned. Unlike exterior doors, the focus is on privacy rather than maximum security. The system should also be easy to open from the outside in a case of emergencies.

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And most importantly, irrespective of whether you’re in the market for locks for your home bathroom or for a bathroom in a commercial establishment, you’d be looking for a lock that is durable. A lock that can handle traffic and will not require repeated replacement.

Here are some of the popular door lock types used in both homes as well as commercial establishments.

1. Handleset locks

Handleset locks are door locks that come with door handles on the outside to open the door and have a keyed lock or deadbolt on the inside to lock the door attached to the handleset frame.

2. Deadbolt locks

Deadbolt door locks are popularly paired with nonlocking door handles or doorknobs. While the doorknobs or handles fulfill the basic function of opening and closing the bathroom door, the deadbolt locks are fitted separately on the inside of the door, operated by a simple thumb-turn lock a release mechanism. When these locks are used in commercial establishments like coffee shops, there is often an indicator above the exterior doorknob or lever to show whether the bathroom is occupied or not.

3. Privacy function locks

These are possibly the most widely used type of interior door locks. They are characterized by a release mechanism that is operated by a button that is a part of the doorknob or lever on the inside of the bathroom. This means that when the bathroom is not occupied, the door can be closed and opened freely. Once the button on the inside is either turned or pressed, depending on the design, the door locks itself.

A lot of privacy function locks come with an exterior emergency release function as well. If a child or someone incapable of opening the door themselves gets locked in, a pin is inserted into the exterior button to release the lock.

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4. Barrel Bolts and Door Bolts

Barrel bolts and other door bolts are simple yet effective options for bathroom doors. They involve a sliding bolt mechanism that securely fastens the door from the inside. They’re easy to install and offer a quick solution for privacy.

5. Sash Locks

Sash locks combine a latch and bolt mechanism, commonly used in more robust bathroom settings. They provide added security and are often found in homes and small commercial spaces.

6. Passage Locks

The least secure option, passage locks, lack a locking mechanism altogether. They’re ideal for homes with small children or elderly individuals who need easy access without the risk of being locked in.

Read more: Guide to finding your key type

Difference between bathroom locks and privacy locks

Both bathroom locks and privacy locks look very similar but have distinct differences. It helps to know the differences especially if you’re planning to change your bathroom locks.

A privacy lock will have a tubular notice latch, while a bathroom lock will have what is called is full bathroom mortice, which is a larger and more complex locking system.

Both bathroom locks and privacy locks come with a release on the external handle. This safety feature can be operated using a flat screwdriver and is an essential safety feature in case someone gets locked in.

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How to change a bathroom door lock

Changing a bathroom lock isn’t all that difficult, especially if you’re replacing it with a similar type of lock. Here’s how to go about it.

1. Remove the old door knob or lever handle.
2. Unscrew and remove the latch and strike plate.
3. Install the new latch, ensuring the curved tip faces the strike plate.
4. Attach the new lever handles or door knobs.
5. Secure the new strike plate. Check that the door latches properly.

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Read more: Change door to open the other way

What’s your choice?

Choosing the right bathroom lock ensures privacy, safety, and functionality. From simple barrel bolts to sophisticated sash locks, there’s a solution for every need and style. Consider the lock’s durability, ease of use, and emergency accessibility. By incorporating both functionality and design, you can enhance your bathroom’s security while complementing its aesthetic. Keep in mind that these door locks also come in a variety of designs to suit the decor of your bathroom. So, have you decided which one works best for you yet?

Written by Narayan Shrouthy. January 2, 2021

Narayan is a content writer for Kukun. With experience in both content writing and editing, Narayan mixes his writing and love for reading with his passion for music. As an active musician, He aims to be a key player in Kukun's content experience.