Bobby pins are often successful lock-opening tools. This is because they are easy to find and to manipulate into the right shape. [4] X Research source The bobby pin works well if you cannot unlock the door with a butter knife.
Screwdrivers with thicker rods will not work as these will not fit inside the door handle. [6] X Research source
Try to use a card that you don’t mind if it gets damaged. A loyalty card may be a good choice, as it is easier to replace than a credit card, gift card, or identification card. [8] X Research source
For door handles that do not have exterior screws, place a flat head screwdriver under the slit in the throat of the doorknob. Then pull the screwdriver up to lift the exterior away and to expose the screws underneath. Undo these screws using a screwdriver or drill. This method should be used after trying to use a butter knife, bobby pin, or screwdriver, as it takes a longer amount of time.
You can purchase a lock-picking set from some department stores or online.
It can be easy to panic if you suddenly find yourself locked in a small space. However, panicking will not help you to get out faster. It will cloud your thinking and judgment, which can make opening the locked door more difficult.
It is much easier to open a locked bathroom door from the outside than it is from the inside. This is because there are more people around outside who are able to help. There are also generally more tools available outside the bathroom that can be used to help get the door unlocked.
This may take a few attempts to get right. The aim is to disengage the lock by turning the handle while using the card to hold the bolt slightly away from the frame. This will allow the lock to retract and for you to open the door. [14] X Research source Try to use a nonessential card as this method of opening the door may damage it. A plastic card is one of the only ways to unlock a bathroom door from the inside. Butter knives, bobby pins, and screwdrivers can only be used from the outside.
Only climb out a window if the bathroom is located on the ground floor. If the bathroom is higher up, climbing out of a window could be dangerous. Don’t try to climb through the window if there are bars in the way or if where you will land doesn’t look sturdy.