A padlock is a common item that serves a major purpose. People use them for their bikes, outdoor sheds, toolboxes, and gates. They’re designed to withstand the elements and attempts to damage or cut them. However, they have a secret feature, a small hole on the bottom, that also serves a major purpose.

Serving an Important Function

Using a padlock is one sure way to keep your belongings safe from being stolen. They’re a small but impactful tool, made of metal. As a result, padlocks are susceptible to rusting from water damage and extreme weather conditions. Fortunately, they’re designed with a tiny mystery hole on the bottom, that allows water to escape. This prevents the padlock from rusting, prolonging its life and use.

Alternative to the Padlock Hole

While the padlock’s tiny hole feature was once revolutionary, weatherproof padlocks are also on the market. This design ensures a padlock will continuously ensure your belongings are safe all year round.

Another Reason for the Padlock Design

In addition to safety from rusting, the tiny hole on the bottom of a padlock fulfills another important role. Sometimes, the padlock may become stuck or unable to open, even with a key or correct code. As such, the hole can be lubricated synthetically to help the padlock pop open.

Other Everyday Things With ‘Hidden Features’

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

Screwdrivers as Wrenches

Knowing how to work on cars is a helpful skill, especially with the rising number of vehicles on the road. Yet most mechanics agree that working on cars can be tough because of the small space and crevices that must be maintained. Fortunately, most screwdrivers can be slid into a wrench to help reach those small spaces.