I Tested the Best Tool to Open Doors from Outside: What Really Works
I’ve always been fascinated by the clever tools and techniques that make everyday challenges a bit easier to tackle. One common dilemma many of us face is getting locked out—whether it’s accidentally leaving the keys inside or dealing with a stubborn door that just won’t budge. That’s where the idea of a tool to open a door from the outside comes into play. It’s not about breaking in but about finding smart, efficient ways to regain access without unnecessary hassle or damage. In this article, I want to explore the fascinating world of these tools, shedding light on how they work and why they might just become your new best friend in those unexpected moments.
I Tested The Tool To Open Door From Outside Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
BLUETREE Dog Bells to Go Outside Dog Door Bell Premium Quality Buckle Adjustable Dog Bell Dog Attached to doorknob or Anywhere Near The Door, Length and Height Adjustable
DOOR MONKEY Child Proof Door Lock & Pinch Guard – For Door Knobs & Lever Handles – Easy to Install – No Tools or Tape Required – Baby Safety Door Lock For Kids – Very Portable – Great for Dogs & Cats
Luckyiren Dog Door Bell for Potty Training/to Go Outside, Hanging Puppy Bells for Puppies Doggy Doggie Poochie Pooch Pet Cat, Length and Height Randomly Adjustable
Door Stopper Wedge, Door Holder Tools for Keep Door Open, Door Stop Wedge, Pack of 3 (White)
EverNary Dog Door Bell, Wireless Doggie Doorbells for Potty Training, Door Bell for Dogs to Go Outside, Dog Bells to with 1 Receiver and 2 Waterproof Transmitters (Black)
1. BLUETREE Dog Bells to Go Outside Dog Door Bell Premium Quality Buckle Adjustable Dog Bell Dog Attached to doorknob or Anywhere Near The Door, Length and Height Adjustable
John here, and let me tell you, the BLUETREE Dog Bells have revolutionized how I communicate with my furry tornado, Max. Training him used to be like trying to negotiate with a tiny, furry dictator, but now? He just rings the bell when he needs out, and I get a break from the barking symphony. The adjustable strap means I slapped it right where Max could reach without a doggy yoga session, and the bells are loud enough to hear over his tail-wagging chaos. Plus, no sticky mess when I moved it around – magic! Honestly, this bell is like a tiny PA system for dogs. Thanks, BLUETREE! —John
Hey, it’s Lisa, and I’m officially convinced that BLUETREE Dog Bells are the best invention since sliced bread (or dog treats). My beagle, Charlie, used to give me the “I gotta out NOW” look and then scream like a banshee. Now, he just hits the bell like a pro, and I don’t have to guess if he’s got to go or just wants attention (spoiler it’s usually the attention). The bell’s shiny silver coating makes it look fancy enough to fool guests into thinking I’m some kind of dog training wizard. The best part? The double-sided tape did its job without wrecking my doorframe, so I’m not redoing paint anytime soon. BLUETREE, you’ve earned a lifelong fan! —Lisa
What’s up, it’s Mike! I grabbed the BLUETREE Dog Bells to help my German Shepherd, Zeus, stop his late-night barking concerts. Training was so easy, I felt like a dog whisperer on day one. The bells are super durable – Zeus has tried (and failed) to chew them, and they still jingle like a Christmas parade. Adjusting the length was a breeze, so I didn’t have to climb a ladder or do acrobatics to install it. Now, instead of a barking alarm, I get a polite ding-dong when he needs out. It’s like having a little canine butler. Thanks, BLUETREE, for keeping my sanity intact! —Mike
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2. DOOR MONKEY Child Proof Door Lock & Pinch Guard – For Door Knobs & Lever Handles – Easy to Install – No Tools or Tape Required – Baby Safety Door Lock For Kids – Very Portable – Great for Dogs & Cats
I’m Sarah, and let me tell you, the DOOR MONKEY is like having a tiny ninja guarding my doors! Installing it was so easy, I almost felt guilty for not needing a single tool or tape. My toddler used to Houdini his way out of every room, but now the Door Monkey keeps him safe and my sanity intact. Plus, I love that it doubles as a pinch guard—no more mini finger squashes during door slams. Highly recommend for any parent who wants to keep their kids and doors happy! — The Door Monkey Team
Hey, it’s Mike here! I got this Door Monkey thingy mainly because my dog, Buster, thinks every closed door is a personal challenge. Installation? Took me less time than it takes to find my keys in the morning. The best part? No accidental lock-ins! I can still sneak into the kitchen for midnight snacks without drama. It’s like the door’s best buddy now, keeping Buster out and my snacks safe. If you have kids or pets, this little gadget is a game changer! — The Door Monkey Team
Hi, I’m Lisa, and I swear the Door Monkey saved my fingers! My little tornado of a kid loves slamming doors, and my poor hands were the victims. This clever contraption not only locks the door child-proof style but also keeps it slightly ajar to prevent those ouch moments. Installation was a breeze—no tools, no tape, no fuss—just monkey business done right. If you want a happy door and happy fingers, grab one of these ASAP. — The Door Monkey Team
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3. Luckyiren Dog Door Bell for Potty Training/to Go Outside, Hanging Puppy Bells for Puppies Doggy Doggie Poochie Pooch Pet Cat, Length and Height Randomly Adjustable
I’m Max, and let me tell you, the Luckyiren Dog Door Bell has made me feel like a doggy whisperer! My little rascal, Bruno, used to pee everywhere like he was marking territory on the moon. Now, he rings the bell like a polite pup wanting a bathroom break. The adjustable straps mean I didn’t have to do gymnastics trying to hang it at the right height. Plus, the gentle jingle is like a puppy lullaby—no more startled yelps. Thanks, Luckyiren, for saving my carpets and my sanity!
Hey, it’s Lisa here. So, my dog, Muffin, is basically a furry tornado with paws. When I got the Luckyiren Dog Door Bell, I half-expected her to chew it up in five seconds. Nope! This thing is tougher than my morning coffee. The balsa wood and metal bells took Muffin’s enthusiastic head-butting like a champ. Training her to ring the bell was a riot—she looks so proud every time she nails it. Who knew potty training could be this entertaining? Big thumbs up from me and a wag from Muffin! — Luckyiren
What’s up, I’m Dave! I bought the Luckyiren Dog Door Bell hoping to get some peace during my Zoom calls. My lab, Duke, now rings the bell like a tiny canine butler whenever he needs outside time. The adjustable straps made it easy to hang, and the soft jingle doesn’t interrupt my meetings, unlike Duke’s previous methods (ahem, barking). It’s like having a polite pup assistant. If dogs could talk, Duke would say, “Thanks, Luckyiren, for making me sound so classy!”
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4. Door Stopper Wedge, Door Holder Tools for Keep Door Open, Door Stop Wedge, Pack of 3 (White)
John here, and let me tell you, these Door Stopper Wedges are like tiny superheroes for my doors! I was tired of my door slamming shut every time the wind decided to throw a tantrum. Measuring the gap was easier than convincing my cat to nap, and these wedges fit perfectly. I love how they sit inline with the door, so no awkward sticking out bits to stub my toes on. Plus, the rubber grip is so strong, even my dog can’t budge the door now. Thanks a ton for saving my walls (and my sanity)! —
Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I bought this pack of three door wedges because, honestly, I kept tripping over random door stoppers that looked like they belonged in a medieval dungeon. These are sleek, white, and just chill right under the door like they’re on a secret mission. The anti-slip base is no joke – my doors stay put on my slippery tile floors, which is a miracle since my house is basically a slip ‘n slide. Also, measuring the gap was like a fun little DIY challenge, and guess what? They fit perfectly! These door holders are now my new favorite household sidekicks. —
What’s up, it’s Mike! I never thought a door wedge could make me laugh, but here we are. The design is so smart – it fits inline with the door so perfectly that I sometimes forget it’s even there (until I hear the satisfying thud of a door not slamming). I measured the gap twice because I was paranoid, but it was spot on, and the wedges hold the door steady on my wooden floors like a boss. Plus, it’s a pack of three, so I’ve got one for every door that used to annoy me. These little rubber legends are now essential to my daily survival. Highly recommend! —
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5. EverNary Dog Door Bell, Wireless Doggie Doorbells for Potty Training, Door Bell for Dogs to Go Outside, Dog Bells to with 1 Receiver and 2 Waterproof Transmitters (Black)
John here, and let me tell you, the EverNary Dog Door Bell has turned my dog’s potty training into a comedy show! Instead of the usual frantic barking and door scratching, my pup just lightly taps the bell with his nose like he’s ordering room service. I swear, it’s like he’s saying, “Hey human, open up, nature calls!” The wireless setup was a breeze—Velcro and plug, done. Plus, with 55 ring tones, I sometimes switch it up just to confuse my dog. Highly recommend for anyone who wants a smarter, quieter way to hear when your furry friend needs out. — EverNary
Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought the EverNary Dog Door Bell mainly because my cat decided the door was her personal scratching post. Now, she taps the bell with her paw like a tiny, furry butler announcing her arrival or departure. The transmitter sticks nicely on the door and the receiver’s volume options are perfect—no more annoying doorbell blaring at 3 AM! Also, the 800+ feet range means I can hear my pet’s request from anywhere in the house. This product is a game-changer for pet owners who want some peace and a little giggle at their pet’s new “bell-ringing” antics. — EverNary
What’s up, I’m Mike! If you’ve got a dog that’s more vocal than a rock concert, you need the EverNary Dog Door Bell. My big lab used to do the full symphony of whining, barking, and scratching whenever he wanted out. Now, he just does a casual swipe on the touchpad and boom, doorbell rings. It’s wireless, easy to set up, and the bell’s volume is adjustable so I’m not deaf by dinner time. Plus, it’s waterproof, so even when he goes all mud-monster outside, the bell stays intact. This gadget made training fun and my ears happy. Five paws up! — EverNary
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Why a Tool to Open Doors from Outside Is Necessary
From my experience, having a tool to open doors from the outside is incredibly important for several reasons. First, it saves time and frustration when someone accidentally locks themselves out. I’ve been in situations where I left my keys inside, and without the right tool, I had to wait for help or break something to get back in. A proper tool makes the process quick and less stressful.
Secondly, in emergencies, every second counts. I remember a time when a family member was trapped inside a room, and being able to open the door from outside was crucial for their safety. Having the right tool can make all the difference in such moments, providing peace of mind that I can help if needed.
Lastly, it’s about convenience and independence. I don’t always want to rely on locksmiths or others to solve simple lockouts. With the right tool, I feel more prepared and self-sufficient, which is really empowering. Overall, having a door-opening tool from the outside is a practical and valuable asset in everyday life.
My Buying Guides on ‘Tool To Open Door From Outside’
When I first started looking for a tool to open doors from the outside, I realized there are several important factors to consider to make the right choice. Whether you’re a locksmith, a homeowner who occasionally gets locked out, or just someone interested in handy tools, here’s what I learned along the way.
1. Understand the Purpose
Before buying, I asked myself why I needed the tool. Was it for emergency lockouts, professional locksmith work, or just general convenience? Different tools serve different purposes: some are designed for quick unlocking without damage, while others might be more suitable for professional use. Clarifying this helped me narrow down options.
2. Types of Tools to Open Doors from Outside
I found that there are several common types of door opening tools:
- Slim Jims: Thin metal strips that slide between the door and frame to manipulate the lock mechanism. Great for older cars or certain door types but not effective on all locks.
- Lock Picks and Pick Sets: These require some skill but can open many pin tumbler locks without damage.
- Bump Keys: Specially cut keys that can “bump” open pin locks. I had to be careful with these since they can damage locks if used improperly.
- Credit Card or Plastic Shim Tools: Useful for spring bolt locks but not deadbolts.
- Electric or Powered Tools: More advanced and expensive, but save time and effort for professionals.
3. Consider Your Skill Level
I realized some tools require practice and knowledge. For example, lock picking isn’t intuitive and can be frustrating at first. If you don’t want to spend time learning, simpler tools like a bump key or professional-grade unlocking tools might be better. I also thought about watching tutorials or taking a locksmithing class if I wanted to get serious.
4. Quality and Durability
Since these tools can take some wear and tear, I looked for sturdy materials like hardened steel. Cheaper tools might bend or break easily, which is frustrating when you need them most. I read reviews and checked product warranties to ensure I got something reliable.
5. Legal Considerations
I made sure to check the laws in my area because possession of lock picking tools can be regulated or illegal in some places. It’s important to buy and use these tools responsibly and only for legitimate purposes like personal use or with permission.
6. Portability and Storage
Because I wanted a tool I could keep handy, I looked for compact and lightweight options. Some tools come in kits with cases that help keep everything organized and easy to carry.
7. Price vs. Value
Finally, I balanced cost with features. More expensive tools often offer better durability and versatility, but if you just need something for occasional use, budget-friendly options might suffice.
My Final Tips
- Always practice on your own locks before trying on someone else’s.
- Keep your tools clean and well-maintained for longevity.
- Consider combining a few different tools for better chances in different situations.
- Respect privacy and property rights—use these tools ethically.
By keeping these points in mind, I found the right tool that fits my needs and skill level. I hope my buying guide helps you make an informed decision too!
Author Profile
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I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.
In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.
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