If you’re tackling a DIY door project or replacing a lock, you might be puzzled by terms like Euro lock, sash lock, and bathroom lock. Don’t worry – you’re not alone! Each of these locks is designed for a specific purpose and door type. In this guide, we’ll explain what each one is, where it’s typically used, and how to choose the right lock for your needs. By the end, you’ll know exactly which type of lock will work best for your door or project.
What is a Euro Lock?
Euro locks (Euro cylinder locks) are one of the most common types of locks found in modern homes. They consist of a cylindrical locking mechanism (with the characteristic euro-profile shape) that fits through the door and into a lock case.
Euro cylinders are especially popular on front and back doors – particularly on uPVC or composite doors that use multi-point locking systems. In fact, many newer exterior doors are built to use Euro cylinder locks: you’ll recognize them by the rounded, oblong keyhole on the handle or escutcheon.
A big advantage of Euro locks is that the cylinder can be easily replaced or upgraded without changing the entire lock or door hardware. This means if you ever need to change keys (for example, after moving house or losing a key), you can simply swap out the Euro cylinder.
Euro locks can be:
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Double-sided: key operable from both sides.
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Thumb-turn: with a key on the outside and a twist knob on the inside for quick, keyless locking.
Choose a Euro lock if your door has a Euro-profile keyhole cut-out or uses a multi-point locking mechanism. These locks are ideal for external doors where security and flexibility are important.
What is a Sash Lock?
Sash locks are a type of traditional mortice lock that combine a latch and a deadbolt in one unit. That means the handle operates a spring latch to keep the door closed during normal use, and a key is used to operate the deadbolt when you want to lock the door.
This makes sash locks ideal for doors that need to stay closed but also require the option to lock. They're common on:
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Internal doors like bedrooms and home offices.
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External wooden doors, especially on older properties.
Sash locks are available with:
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3 levers: suitable for internal doors where basic privacy is needed.
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5 levers: offering higher security, suitable for exterior doors (often required by insurance policies).
Choose a sash lock if you have a timber door with a standard keyhole (not a Euro profile) and you need both latching and locking functionality.
What is a Bathroom Lock?
Bathroom locks are very similar to sash locks, but instead of using a key to lock, they use a thumb-turn on the inside. The door is still latched and opens/closes with a handle, but you can lock it from inside with a simple turn.
These locks are designed for privacy, not security. They usually have:
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A turn knob on the inside of the door.
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An emergency release on the outside (often a coin slot or small dial), allowing the door to be opened if needed.
Bathroom locks are commonly used on:
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Bathroom doors
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Toilets
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Ensuite doors
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Bedrooms, where only privacy is needed
Do not use bathroom locks on external doors or anywhere security is required. They’re purely for internal use.
Which Lock Do I Need for My Door?
Here’s a simple guide to help you choose:
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Euro Lock:
Best for external doors, especially uPVC or composite. Ideal if your door uses a Euro-profile keyhole or multi-point locking system. Easily replaceable and secure. -
Sash Lock:
Best for internal or wooden doors where you need both a latch and a lock. Use a 3-lever version for internal doors and a 5-lever for external security. -
Bathroom Lock:
Best for internal doors where privacy is needed (e.g. bathrooms and toilets). Lockable from the inside with a thumb-turn, and unlockable from the outside in an emergency.
Final Thoughts
In summary:
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Euro locks are for secure, external applications.
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Sash locks are versatile and suited to both internal and external wooden doors.
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Bathroom locks are for simple privacy on internal doors.
Choosing the right lock helps your door function smoothly, keeps your home secure, and avoids any fitting headaches. So before you pick up your screwdriver, take a moment to check which lock your project really needs!
Happy DIY-ing!