What is That Little Hole At The Bottom of a Padlock For?
A padlock is a common item that serves a major purpose. People use them for their bikes, outdoor sheds, toolboxes, and gates. They’re designed to withstand the elements and attempts to damage or cut them. However, they have a secret feature, a small hole on the bottom, that also serves a major purpose.
Serving an Important Function
![A padlock locking a wooden gate.](https://secretlifeofmom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Ray-1024x699.jpg)
Using a padlock is one sure way to keep your belongings safe from being stolen. They’re a small but impactful tool, made of metal. As a result, padlocks are susceptible to rusting from water damage and extreme weather conditions. Fortunately, they’re designed with a tiny mystery hole on the bottom, that allows water to escape. This prevents the padlock from rusting, prolonging its life and use.
Alternative to the Padlock Hole
![](https://secretlifeofmom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Master-ProSeries-Lock-edited.jpeg)
While the padlock’s tiny hole feature was once revolutionary, weatherproof padlocks are also on the market. This design ensures a padlock will continuously ensure your belongings are safe all year round.
Another Reason for the Padlock Design
![Padlocks on a gate.](https://secretlifeofmom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/TheOtherKev-1024x764.jpg)
In addition to safety from rusting, the tiny hole on the bottom of a padlock fulfills another important role. Sometimes, the padlock may become stuck or unable to open, even with a key or correct code. As such, the hole can be lubricated synthetically to help the padlock pop open.
Read More: 15 Things You Made Fun of Older People For That You Now Completely Understand
Other Everyday Things With ‘Hidden Features’
![woman looking at phone in surprise](https://secretlifeofmom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Shutterstock_2153829281-1024x538.jpg)
Padlocks aren’t the only thing that has been designed with secret or hidden features. Here are a few other handy items that serve multiple purposes.