What's the Purpose of the Small Hole at the Bottom of a Padlock?

A padlock is a common item with a significant purpose. People use them for bikes, outdoor sheds, toolboxes, and gates. Designed to withstand the elements and attempts to damage or cut them, padlocks also have a hidden feature—a small hole on the bottom—that serves an important function.

Serving an Important Function

Padlocks are essential for keeping your belongings safe from theft. Made of metal, they are susceptible to rusting from water damage and extreme weather conditions. The small hole at the bottom of a padlock allows water to escape, preventing rust and prolonging the lock's life and usability.

Alternative to the Padlock Hole

While the tiny hole in a padlock was once a revolutionary feature, weatherproof padlocks are now available. These designs ensure your belongings remain secure all year round, regardless of the weather.

Another Reason for the Padlock Design

Beyond preventing rust, the small hole on the bottom of a padlock serves another important purpose. If a padlock becomes stuck or won't open, even with the correct key or code, the hole can be lubricated to help release the lock.

Other Everyday Items with Hidden Features

Padlocks aren’t the only items designed with secret or hidden features. Here are a few other handy objects that serve multiple purposes.

Screwdrivers as Wrenches

Working on cars can be challenging due to the small spaces and crevices that need maintenance. Many screwdrivers can be slid into a wrench to help reach these tight areas.

Color Swatches on Clothes

Clothing often comes with a color swatch, especially higher-quality garments. These swatches help color-match fabrics or threads when clothing is damaged. They can also be used to test how laundry products will affect the item's color, allowing buyers to care for their clothes properly.

Brass Padlocks and Doorknobs

Brass is anti-bacterial, making it a popular material for doorknobs, stair railings, padlocks, and other frequently touched items.

Gas Indicator

People often forget which side their car's gas tank is on. Car manufacturers have added a triangular indicator near the gas gauge that points to the correct side.

Logos with Dual Purposes

The Heinz 57 label on sauces like ketchup and steak sauce serves more than just a decorative function. It also indicates where to tap the bottle to ensure the sauce flows easily.

Padlocks and the items listed above are just a few examples of the many ingenious designs created to make life easier and more convenient.