Walk up to almost any standard padlock, and you’ll notice a tiny, almost unnoticeable hole on the bottom corner of the lock. Most people see it their whole lives without ever questioning it. Some assume it’s decorative, others think it’s part of the manufacturing process.

But the truth is:
that little hole has two extremely important purposes—ones that could save you from a broken lock or even help you unlock a jammed one.

Let’s break it down.1. It Allows Water to Drain Out
Padlocks are often used outdoors: on gates, sheds, storage units, lockers, fences, and toolboxes. When exposed to rain or moisture, water can easily seep inside the lock’s internal mechanism.

Without a drainage hole, water would:

Sit inside the lock
Cause rust
Freeze during winter
Permanently damage the spring-loaded mechanisms
The small hole at the bottom lets water drain out, preventing internal corrosion and extending the life of the lock.

This tiny feature is the reason your outdoor lock doesn’t rust shut after one rainy season.2. It Allows Lubrication to Reach the Inner Mechanism
If your lock ever becomes stiff, difficult to turn, or refuses to open, this hole becomes your best friend.