A winter that swings between thaws and hard frosts is perfect for icing up a letterbox. Moisture and condensation collect on the metal flap, in the hinges and the lock, and overnight everything freezes: the door will not open, the flap jams and the key will not turn.
A letterbox on the gate or front door is also the first thing visitors see, so it is worth keeping in good shape. Here is how to thaw it without breaking anything and how to stop the ice coming back.
What you will need
Important: Do not pour boiling water over the letterbox: the sudden temperature change can damage paint, plastic or glass, and the water will refreeze in an even thicker layer. Never force the flap open, or you may break the hinges or lock.
Step 1
Thaw the ice with a bag of warm water
The easiest way to melt ice is with heat but without extra water. Fill a sealable bag with moderately hot water, close it securely and press it against the flap, hinges or lock.
The bag passes on the heat while the water never touches the ice, so there is no fresh moisture to refreeze. After a few minutes the flap usually frees itself.
Step 2
Or use a hairdryer
If the letterbox is in your front door, you can thaw it from inside without stepping into the cold. Set the hairdryer to a moderate temperature and direct it at the flap from inside until the ice melts.
Make sure melting water does not reach the hairdryer or its cable, and handle the appliance with dry hands.
Step 3
Dry everything thoroughly
As soon as the ice has melted, wipe the flap, hinges and slot dry with paper towels. Any drop left behind will turn back into ice overnight, so be thorough, especially in the hinges and around the lock.
Step 4
Free the hinges and lock
Apply WD-40 Smart Straw through the thin straw into the hinges and keyhole, then open and close the flap and turn the key a few times. It drives moisture out of the mechanism, frees stuck parts and lubricates them so the flap stops squeaking.
Wait a few minutes and wipe off the excess so dust does not collect.
Step 5
Protect the letterbox before the frost
It is best to treat the letterbox in advance, before the first frosts. Spray the metal flap, hinges and slot frame with WD-40 Multi-Use and buff with a dry cloth. The thin invisible film repels water, so moisture does not linger and freezes less often, while the metal is protected from rust and road salt.
As a bonus, the surface gets a subtle shine and the letterbox looks cared for. Test on a hidden spot first if the flap is painted or has plastic parts.
Tip: Keep a pocket-size
WD-40 100 ml in the car or your bag: it helps just as well with a frozen gate or garage lock when there is no hairdryer or warm water to hand.
What next
Repeat the protective treatment once a month through the winter and after heavy thaws with rain. In spring, treated hinges and locks will show no rust and the letterbox will last longer.
These uses come from the experience of WD-40 users in many countries. Always follow the instructions and warnings on the product label.
More guides in «How to use».