Unfortunately, not all of them are as sneaky as you might think. Whether you’ve tucked away valuables in a safe or left a spare key under the mat, criminals know the best places to look.
To help you keep your possessions safe, we’ve compiled a list of the most common hiding spots burglars check first—so you can avoid them and secure your home better.
Under the Doormat
It’s a well-known cliché, but that doesn’t stop burglars from checking under your doormat for a spare key. While it may seem convenient, it’s far from discreet.
If you’re still hiding a key there, consider giving it a better hiding spot—or leave a copy with a trusted neighbor.
Inside the Mailbox
Some homeowners still hide their valuables inside the mailbox, thinking it’s a safe spot. Unfortunately, burglars know better.
Not only is it easy to access, but it’s also usually the first place a criminal will check when looking for something valuable.
In the Closet, Behind Old Clothes
Clothing can be a great distraction in a closet, but burglars know people often stash things behind or under piles of clothes.
Even though it may seem like a good hiding spot, it’s not as safe as you think. Consider a more creative approach, such as a hidden drawer or a safe.
Under the Bed
While it’s tempting to hide your valuables under the bed, it’s one of the first places burglars check.
They know that people often stuff cash, jewelry, or electronics under the bed frame, thinking it’s a safe hiding place. If you must hide things in your bedroom, use more secure locations, like a locked drawer.
In the Freezer
A freezer may seem like an unlikely hiding place, but it’s often where burglars find more than just frozen food.
If you’ve hidden money or small valuables in a plastic bag and stuffed it in the back of the freezer, be aware that this is a prime target for criminals. They’ll check it quickly if they think they can get something valuable out of it.
Behind Picture Frames
Picture frames can hold more than just your family photos. But burglars know to check behind them for hidden cash, documents, or keys.
Consider more discreet hiding places that don’t involve items already in plain view.
In the Safe
You might think a safe is a secure spot to hide your valuables, but thieves can be savvy enough to break into many types of safes.
Many burglars will target safes first, especially if they know it’s a small, portable one. If your safe is hidden in an easy-to-access spot, you might want to rethink where you place it—and consider upgrading to a more secure model.
The Garage
Garages are often overlooked when it comes to securing valuable items. Many people stash tools, electronics, or other valuables in plain sight in their garage.
However, burglars know this area well and often check storage bins, toolboxes, or even under the car. Locking your garage and securing the entry points is essential for keeping burglars out.
