How to Oil a Squeaky Fridge Door

Refrigerator door hinges can develop an annoying squeak just like any other door. The lubricant inside the hinge eventually wears off so you can hear the metal rubbing together, resulting in the squeaky noise. Most fridge doors have two hinges, one located at the top and the other at the bottom of the door. The freezer compartment also has two hinges, but these tend to require less lubricating since the freezer doors aren't opened as often. A quick lubricating job allows the hinges to glide smoothly so you can open the door quietly and smoothly.


Remove food and condiments from the inside refrigerator door shelving and compartments.


Remove any decorative plastic caps covering the top or bottom hinge. These typically pop off with gentle pressure.


Lift the open door up 1/8 to 1/4 inch. Most doors have some play on their hinges, which allows you to lift it without removing it completely. It's best to have one person lift and hold the door while a second person oils the squeaky hinges. If the door doesn't lift, loosen the screws at the top of the hinge but do not remove them completely. Lift the door completely from its hinges and lean it against a wall.


Squirt a drop of penetrating lubricant rated for use on refrigerators or petroleum jelly into the hinges with a needle oiler bottle. These bottles have a long syringelike applicator that allows you to force the lubricant into the hinge. Apply the lubricant to both the top and bottom hinge, lubricating each side.


Replace the door, if applicable. Tighten the screws and replace the hinge covers.

Things You Will Need

  • Screwdriver
  • Penetrating lubricant or petroleum jelly
  • Needle oiler bottle


  • Wipe a thin coat of the petroleum jelly over the door seals. The lubricant conditions them and helps extend the life of the seals.

About the Author

Jenny Harrington


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