Privacy is a key consideration in any home, especially for rooms like bathrooms and bedrooms. If you’re planning a renovation or fitting out a new property, you might notice privacy handles listed as an option. But what exactly are privacy handles, and where should they be installed for the best results? Door Handle Company explains all, with practical tips for selection and fitting.
What Is a Privacy Handle?
A privacy handle is a door handle set designed with an integrated mechanism—usually a turn-and-release thumbturn—allowing you to lock the door from one side without a key. The key feature is privacy, not high security. Most privacy handles can be released from the outside in case of emergency, ensuring safety and peace of mind.
At Door Handle Company, you’ll find a range of bathroom door handles with privacy functions, as well as separate thumbturns and releases for pairing with lever handles or knobs.
How Do Privacy Handles Work?
Privacy handles work with a dedicated bathroom mortice lock or, in some cases, a tubular latch combined with a bolt. The internal thumbturn or push button engages the lock, while a slot or emergency release on the outside allows it to be opened if necessary.
Privacy handle sets typically include:
- Lever or knob handles
- Thumbturn and emergency release
- Fixings and spindle
Where Should Privacy Handles Be Used?
1. Bathrooms:
By far the most common use is bathroom doors, where privacy is essential but a high-security lock is not.
Explore DHC’s full bathroom handle range for both classic and modern styles.
2. Bedrooms:
Privacy handles can be a smart addition to bedroom doors, particularly for shared houses or HMOs. For children’s bedrooms, the emergency release feature ensures safety.
3. Home offices:
If you need occasional privacy but not full security, privacy handles offer a practical solution.
4. En-suites and cloakrooms:
Anywhere you want easy privacy without the hassle of a key, a privacy handle is a good choice.
Privacy Handles vs. Locking Handles
- Privacy handles:
Lock and unlock from inside with a thumbturn. Designed for bathrooms and bedrooms, not high-security areas. - Locking handles:
Require a key and offer higher security—best for front doors, back doors, and outbuildings.
If you need security, choose a handle set for locks that works with a mortice or euro cylinder lock.
Styles and Finishes Available
At DHC, you can find privacy handles in every popular finish, including:
Pair your privacy handles with matching hinges, door stops, and escutcheons for a coordinated finish.
How to Fit a Privacy Handle
- Remove old handles and latch if present.
- Install a bathroom mortice lock (see DHC’s options), or use a tubular latch with a separate bolt.
- Mark and drill holes for the thumbturn and handle spindle.
- Fit the new handles and thumbturn, ensuring the emergency release is accessible on the outside.
- Secure all fixings and test the action before closing the door.
For visual guidance, Ideal Home’s door handle fitting tutorial is useful.
Common Questions
Are privacy handles secure?
Privacy handles are for privacy, not high security. For external doors, use a keyed lock or euro cylinder lock.
Can I add privacy to any handle?
Yes. You can pair a standard lever handle with a separate thumbturn and release for the same effect.
Why Buy Privacy Handles from Door Handle Company?
- Bathroom privacy handles for every décor
- Matching thumbturns, locks, and spares
- Expert advice and support—contact us for installation help
- Fast UK delivery and a massive range in stock
Browse the full privacy handle range and make privacy simple and stylish throughout your home.