Best Pocket Door Lock: Reviews, Buying Guide, and FAQs 2023

Chances are if you haven't heard the term "pocket doors" before, you've still most likely come across them and even used them.

Pocket doors are the kind of door that slides open and then disappears into the recesses of your wall, effectively hiding the door from view.

They are quite useful when your door doesn't have room to swing one way or another, or perhaps you simply like the style of pocket doors.

Editor's Recommendation: Top Pocket Door Locks Hardware

• #
  Preview
  Product
  Rating
• Bestseller No. 1
  
  Kwikset 335 15 RND PCKT DR LCK Round Bed/Bath Pocket Door Lock in Satin Nickel
  Rating:

  
  
• Bestseller No. 2
  
  Deltana SDLA325U3-UNL HD Pocket Lock, Adjustable, 3 1/4"x 2 1/4" Privacy in Unlacquered...
  Rating:

  
  
• Bestseller No. 3
  
  Designers Impressions Oil Rubbed Bronze Pocket Door Privacy Lock : 53843
  Rating:

  
  
• Bestseller No. 4
  
  Prime-Line N 7239 Pocket Door Privacy Lock with Pull - Replace Old or Damaged Pocket Door...
  Rating:

  
  
• Bestseller No. 5
  
  HOMOTEK Privacy Pocket Door Lock Hardware with Pull - Replace Old Or Damaged Sliding Door...
  Rating:

  
  

Table Summary of Pocket Door Lock

Pocket doors are interior doors and they definitely help divide up the space in your home.

And so, with pocket doors, come locks for pocket doors, or pocket door latches (which serve the same purpose), which we want to talk about today.

Pocket door locks provide a slightly different kind of security for the home, and by that we mean they provide privacy for different areas of your home, such as bathrooms, bedrooms, and anywhere else you might want a little bit of privacy.

While they are great for privacy, keep in mind that pocket doors - even with a strong lock on them - were never meant to resist the same kind of force that we've talked about time and again on this website when it comes to exterior doors and how much force they can take.

If you want something that really protects a specific room in your home, you are not looking at a pocket door or a pocket door lock or latch - you'll want the best heavy duty deadbolt available for that job.

That said, a bedroom or bathroom pocket door lock can not only give you added privacy, but some security inside the home as well.

Stay with us in order to find out more about pocket doors and to read our reviews of some of the best locks available for this type of door.

Here is what we are going to talk about today:

We'll start by giving more information about pocket doors and explaining how to lock this type of door.

But, before we do that, we suggest you watching this cool video explaining the basics behind pocket doors:

Ok, now let's discuss how to lock a pocket door…

How to Lock a Pocket Door

The best pocket door hardware will slide discreetly with the door into the wall. Unfortunately, there are not often keyed pocket door locks. They are too bulky and won't provide the security you'd like.

The door itself is slim and a sturdy door with a key isn't a pocket door keyed lock. Locks for pocket doors with keys are not going to be as secure as an outside door with a deadbolt.

A pocket door lock is usually a latch that can be turned for privacy. The door can't be locked from the outside, either.

Next, we provide a quick all purpose guide to buying a good pick proof lock. For most doors in your house, lock picking is often a threat, and it's good to know this information.

One thing about pocket door locks is that they don't have this concern, due to a lack of keyway. Any lock that has a keyway can potentially be picked, or bumped with a bump key.

Following this section we'll show you our choices for best pocket door locks, all of which are pick proof.

Key things you need to know before buying a pick-proof lock

Anyone can go and spend a lot of money on a lock, however not everyone can spend the money correctly and choose the right pick-proof lock that will fit all their needs.

However, with the right information and some helpful tips, you will be able to do exactly that.

You need to prepare and do some reading before you go shopping. We will teach you some tips that will help you invest your money properly.

Without further ado, here is what you need to know before buying a pick-proof lock:

Learn the Language of Locks

From lock bumping, lock cylinders, pins, and ANSI grading system, there is so much things to learn when it comes to lock shopping.

Conventional locks usually have only one cylinder and are operated via interior twist turn or an exterior key.

On the other hand, pick-proof locks usually have hardened or multiple cylinders, bump-proof pin configurations, and many other features designed to keep burglars away.

It goes without saying that these locks also have better ANSI ratings.

Don't be cheap, be smart!

High-quality pick-proof locks and smart lock can cost much more than conventional locks.

We highly suggest you spending a bit more and buying a lock that will do what it is supposed to do - keep burglars away and keep your home safe.

If you decide to go cheap and your home gets broken into, the insurance deductible will cost you much more than the price of a pick-proof lock.

It is also worth mentioning that many insurance companies give discounts on homes wit pick-proof locks installed.

Do you want a mechanical, electronic, or smart lock?

Before you go shopping, you need to think about whether you need a mechanical, electronic, or smart lock.

Smart locks are usually the most expensive ones, but they do offer the best features.

Smart locks are able to connect to Wi-Fi and link to your smartphone.

This allows homeowners to lock and unlock their home doors remotely, receive alert notifications, check whether their front door is locked or not, and much more.

Electronic locks don't cost as much as smart locks, but they do have some smart features. They are as secure as smart locks and also have keypads for complete key-less entry.

They just can't connect to Wi-Fi and link t your smartphone.

Next, we review some of the best pocket door locks from famous brands such as Schlage, Baldwin, Prime Line, Kwikset and Ives.

We give you short reviews of our top 5 chosen products and it's up to you to decide which one is the best pocket door lock for you!

Top 4 Best Pocket Door Lock Reviews

Kwikset 335 Round Bed/Bath Pocket Door Lock

Features

• Looks great, modern and stylish
  
• Colors: Satin Nickel, Antique Brass, Antique Nickel, Polished Brass, Satin Stainless, Polished Stainless, Satin Chrome, Polished Stainless
• Leading lock brand
• Includes a 1/2 " latch throw, 3 & 3/8″ latch backset
• Adjustable latch which fits in all standard door sizes
• No need to cut a new notch in the door with this round design
• Comes with easy-to-follow instructions
• Easy to install, especially for pre-drilled doors (if not, hole-drilling template supplied)
• The pocket door locking mechanism functions using a turn piece on the lock's interior
• Install like you would a regular door handle, with the lock hiding in the door's profile

More Info

Once installed, if everything is not installed flush, you may meet resistance when unlocking or locking the door - make sure its flush.

Also, be aware of the side to side play of your door. If your door wiggles too much, its more difficult for the deadbolt to catch.

These types of locks, and particularly this Kwikset pocket door model, are not meant for thinner doors. Also, the Kwikset 335 round pocket door security lock was not meant to guard against any sort of focused attack.

These are interior locks meant to provide privacy, not turn your home into a lockdown facility.

*In case of emergency, you can unlock with either a screwdriver or coin

Lastly, you may need a few more things to install this lock than just a Philips head screwdriver.

You may also need to have on hand a good drill, a bit, a hammer, a chisel, a tape measure, nails, and a hole saw kit - depending on the state your door is in when you attempt to install this pocket door with lock.

Overall, this lock is inexpensive and has a lot going for it, and comes in a wide variety of colors.

Most of what might be seen as drawbacks are really just considerations for anyone installing a pocket door lock like this Kwikset model.

Next, we review Schlage SC991B-619 sliding door lock.

Schlage SC991B-619 Artisan Sliding Door Lock

Features

• Lock the door from the interior with privacy function
• Measures 1-1/2″ D x 2-1/4″ H
• Schlage is a leading name in locks
• Solid brass durable construction
• Reversible plates
• Satin Nickel finish which doesn't show fingerprints
• Also comes in Antique Brass, Bright Brass, Aged Bronze, and more
• Matches perfectly with Schlage Merano door handles (also in Satin Nickel)
• Easy Install

More Info

As with the previously mentioned Kwikset 335 pocket door lock, keeping things flush is always important to these kinds of locks.

When you install this Schlage, for instance, it is of course necessary to measure everything out and make sure everything is flush for the best possible performance.

Some customers have run into issues with this, and it leads to complaints later on.

However, it is clear from the reviews that those who have more experience with these types of installations do tend to have less gripes overall.

While you don't have to be a handy person to install this Schlage SC991B-619 Artisan Sliding Door Lock, the handier the better as you want your installation to run as smoothly as possible in order to get maximum performance out of your product here.

Schlage pocket door lock installation can be done by the less experienced, but it goes quicker with less problems later if you call in a handy person.

Also, if you're off on the flush factor, this can lead to your lock not engaging properly, which can be frustrating. Ok, we'll stop harping on this now.

*In case of emergency, you can unlock with either a screwdriver or coin

One customer offers the following tip: "I didn't notice at first that the strike plate is asymmetrical and the lock wouldn't catch. Turning it 180 degrees fixed that problem. Highly recommended."

Lastly, there have been murmurings of the turn switch for the lock turn being too small.

True, it isn't huge, but then again, this isn't a large piece of equipment. Schlage pocket door hardware is meant to slide with the door into the slim pocket in the wall.

Most people seem to have no problem with it, but you must be the judge.

As we mentioned, we're talking about 1-1/2″ diameter with a height of 2-1/4″ height, so judging by that, you can tell how big the lock turn is. Too small?

Overall, the reviews for this product so far have been overwhelmingly positive, with many people finding this handsome lock to be quite useful.

Ok! On to the next one…

Prime-Line N 7367 Pocket Door Privacy Lock with Pull, 3-3/4-Inch

Features

• Non-handed design, easily reversible
• Construction made from solid brass
• Highly durable with Satin Nickel finish
• All hardware included (shown in picture below)
• Very easy to install with mortise installation
• Wide easy-grip design
• 2.5 x 3.8 x 1.4 inches and 8.2 ounces
• Goods are warranted against manufacturing defects for 1 year

More Info

As with all of these pocket door locks listed on this page, they each have a unique sense of craftsmanship and the Prime Line N 7367 Pocket Door Privacy Lock is no different, with its sleek & modern-looking satin nickel finish and inset circular turn switch for the lock.

You definitely won't be accused of having ugly interior door hardware with this - on the contrary - you might even receive some compliments as some users have from installing this lock.

We won't go over the whole "make sure everything is flush" speech again, but, as with all of these locks, keeping everything flush is quite important overall.

Basically, all of the features we listed above are what the customers are saying as well. No complaints about it being hard to install, praise for its look and feel, and the fact that its reversible.

For the roughly $20 you're getting one of the best pocket door locks on the market, that much is clear.

One complaint that a customer did mention was that the lock does require a bit of force to turn, and that could be seen as a drawback.

This is worth considering when it comes to who is using this pocket door lock, as some people may want a lock that is completely resistance-free when turning it.

We are not saying the lock is hard to turn, but neither can we say its resistance free, and so that's just something the potential consumer should keep in mind.

*In case of emergency, you can unlock with either a screwdriver or coin

Next, we review Schlage 42B15 pocket sliding door bolt.

Ives by Schlage 42B15 Pocket Sliding Door Bolt

Features

• 8 different colors to choose from: Antique Brass, Bright Brass, Bright Chrome, Oil-Rubbed Bronze, Satin Brass, Satin Bronze, Satin Chrome, and Satin Nickel
• Comes in a 1-pack or a 2-pack
• Has an emergency lock-release from outside the door
• Feather-touch action with spring activated design
• Release hole capped with brass grommet to protect product's finish
• 1.6 ounces and 3.1 x 1.2 x 0.6 inches
• Easy install and comes with everything you need to install it

More Info

For over 120 years now, IVES has been producing building hardware based on the principles of their founder, Hobart B. Ives, based on the principles of offering quality products along with great customer service.

Perhaps this explains why this unassuming little piece of door hardware seems to be getting nothing but 5 star reviews, with people saying that its far easier than most pocket knobs to use.

This ingenious little device offers just what it says in the features listed above, with light action and quality hardware at a great price.

It even manages to one-up a lot of the other pocket door locks by having an emergency lock-release from the outside, as well as comes in a wide variety of colors.

While we do say the install is easy, the one potential drawback does stem from the fact that this lock doesn't come with exact instructions.

Overall this could very well be the best deal here on our list of the Best Pocket Door Locks of 2018/2019.

Last but not least, we review Baldwin 0465.150 Edge

Baldwin 0465.150 Edge Pull

Features

• 3/4″W x 3 7/8″H x 1 5/8″ projection
• Spring loaded edge pull returns lever flush with face plate
• For use on pocket doors only
  
• Comes in about 25 different colors (huge selection)
• Made from durable brass
• Contemporary look
• Overall Height - Top to Bottom: -3.88″. Overall Width - Side to Side: -1.65″. Overall Depth - Front to Back: -0.75″. Overall Product Weight: -0.12 lbs.

More Info

First off, this is not a pocket door lock. This is just a pull, but its a really nice piece of pocket door hardware, so we thought we'd add it to our list. Again, NOT a lock.

Message from the manufacturer: "Baldwin has built its name and reputation on its attention to detail, quality, style and timeless good taste.

Combined with its more than fifty years of commitment to making its products look better and last longer, these are the reasons that Baldwin is recognized as the premier manufacturer of solid brass lock sets, fine practical yet elegant bath hardware products, cabinet and drawer knobs, levers and other decorative hardware for the home and office."

This is a very solid construction from Baldwin, which is reflected in the reviews for this product. People love it! It is very simple to use, but still, there are a few things to note here.

One thing to note about this Baldwin door pull is that once you pull it out, you should remember to put it back, otherwise, the handle will stay out. We thought this was worth mentioning.

Also, you can't just attach this to your door without having a hole drilled out, so that the pull can go back in. Otherwise, the pull would have nowhere to sit in the first place.

This was brought up on the product page, and so we thought we'd also point that out. Check out the picture on the right to see what we mean. You might need a good drill for this, or its not going to work.

Related posts for Pocket Door Lock Buyers

1. Schlage Vs Weiser Locks
   
2. Code-A-Key All-Weather Double Keypad Mechanical Keyless Door Lock Review
   
3. Best Mechanical Deadbolt Reviews

Buy on Walmart

Kwikset 335 Round Bed/Bath Pocket Door Lock in Satin Nickel - Walmart Link

Deltana SDLA325U3-UNL HD Pocket Lock, Adjustable, 3 1/4"x 2 1/4" Privacy in Unlacquered - Walmart Link

Designers Impressions Oil Rubbed Bronze Pocket Door Privacy Lock : 53843 - Walmart Link

PRIME-LINE N 7239 Pocket Door Privacy Lock, 1 Pack, Satin Nickel - Walmart Link

HOMOTEK Privacy Sliding Door Lock with Pull - Replace Old Or Damaged Pocket Door Locks - Walmart Link

Schlage Merano door handles - Walmart Link

Buy on eBay

Kwikset 335 Round Bed/Bath Pocket Door Lock in Satin Nickel - eBay Link

Deltana SDLA325U3-UNL HD Pocket Lock, Adjustable, 3 1/4"x 2 1/4" Privacy in Unlacquered - eBay Link

Designers Impressions Oil Rubbed Bronze Pocket Door Privacy Lock : 53843 - eBay Link

PRIME-LINE N 7239 Pocket Door Privacy Lock, 1 Pack, Satin Nickel - eBay Link

HOMOTEK Privacy Sliding Door Lock with Pull - Replace Old Or Damaged Pocket Door Locks - eBay Link

Schlage Merano door handles - eBay Link