Privacy Turns

Black Privacy Latch Set, from our current range.

What is a privacy turn?

A privacy turn, sometimes sold as a "turn and release", is the small knob or lever fitted to the inside of a bathroom or WC door that operates a bathroom lock without a key. Turning it locks the door, and a corresponding slot on the outside of the matching escutcheon allows the door to be released in an emergency with a coin or flat tool. Privacy turns are usually sold as part of a matched set alongside the lock and outer handle or knob, sometimes marketed as a "privacy latch set".

Because they are seen and touched every time the door is used, privacy turns are worth choosing to match the finish of the rest of a bathroom's door furniture.

Where privacy turns are used

• Bathrooms and WCs – fitted on the inside face of the door, paired with a bathroom lock
• En-suites – used in the same way as a standard bathroom
• Any internal door needing key-free privacy – occasionally used on other private rooms where a full lock is not required

Choosing the right privacy turn

A few practical points are worth checking before you buy:

• Set compatibility – privacy turns are usually matched to a specific lock and outer handle within the same range
• Emergency release – confirm the outer escutcheon includes a release slot for emergency access
• Finish – choose a finish matching your bathroom's other door furniture; see our Hardware Finishes Guide

Related products

Browse Privacy Latch Sets via search, or see the related Bathroom Locks guide.

Frequently asked questions

Can I buy a privacy turn separately from the lock?

This depends on the range; many are sold as a complete set with the turn, release and lock together, though some manufacturers do offer replacement turns separately.

What happens if someone gets locked in a bathroom by accident?

A privacy turn's outer escutcheon includes a small slot that allows the door to be released from outside using a coin or flat tool, without needing a key.

Do privacy turns come in different finishes?

Yes, privacy turns are available in the same range of finishes as other door furniture, so they can be matched to handles and knobs elsewhere in the property.

Back to the Locks & Security Guide, or explore the full Knowledge Centre.