When it comes to keeping your valuables safe, the best trick isn’t just locking them up—it’s hiding them where burglars won’t even think to look. Most thieves are in a rush, grabbing whatever they can from the most obvious spots like drawers, closets, and under the mattress. That’s why a little creativity goes a long way. The better your hiding spot, the less likely your valuables will end up in the wrong hands. Here are 20 clever places to stash your belongings where burglars won’t bother checking.
Inside a Fake Electrical Outlet
Most burglars won’t take the time to unscrew electrical outlets. Installing a fake one allows you to store small valuables such as cash, jewelry, or USB drives discreetly. Be sure to use an outlet cover that blends in with the rest of your home’s decor. Just make sure it’s not a live outlet to avoid any electrical risks. Many hidden wall safes designed to look like outlets can be purchased online. Placing it in a non-obvious location, such as a hallway, further reduces suspicion. This method is particularly effective in rental homes or apartments. Keep a small screwdriver handy for easy access.
Behind a Loose Brick in the Fireplace
If you have a brick fireplace, a loose or removable brick can serve as a secret compartment. Choose a brick that looks natural and fits well with the surrounding ones. Hollow out a small space behind it to store cash, documents, or jewelry. Since fireplaces are typically associated with soot and ash, burglars are unlikely to investigate them thoroughly. You can even create a false soot stain to make it look more authentic. A magnet or latch can make accessing the brick easier. Keep the weight of items light to ensure the brick fits securely. This is an age-old hiding technique that remains effective today.
Inside a False Air Vent
Burglars often check under beds and in closets, but they rarely dismantle air vents. Installing a fake vent with a hidden compartment can be a great way to stash money, small valuables, or emergency items. Choose a vent that blends with the rest of your home’s decor to avoid drawing attention. Many commercial options come with secure locking mechanisms to prevent accidental discovery. Consider placing it in an inconspicuous area, such as a hallway or laundry room. Ensure it’s not in use for actual ventilation to avoid potential airflow issues. A slight dusting can make it look untouched and authentic.
Inside a Hollowed-Out Book
A classic hiding spot, a hollowed-out book blends seamlessly into any bookshelf. Choose a thick hardcover book that matches the rest of your collection. Cut out the center of the pages, leaving enough around the edges to maintain structure. Glue the remaining pages together and allow them to dry before placing valuables inside. This method works best on a cluttered bookshelf rather than one with neatly arranged books. Avoid choosing a title that might attract interest, such as a rare or vintage edition. You can also purchase pre-made hollow books for convenience. Stack it among similarly sized books for added camouflage.
Inside a False Bottom Drawer
Burglars often rummage through drawers, but they rarely check for hidden compartments. Installing a false bottom in a dresser or nightstand drawer creates a secret compartment that can hold cash, jewelry, or important documents. To create this, cut a thin wooden board to fit snugly inside the drawer and use small spacers to elevate it slightly. Paint or stain it to match the drawer’s interior so it blends in. This hiding spot is especially useful in children’s rooms or home offices, areas less likely to be thoroughly searched. Keep it subtle so it doesn’t appear out of place. A small notch on the side can allow easy removal.
Under the Sink Inside a Fake Pipe
The area under the sink is often a mess of cleaning supplies and pipes, making it an unlikely target for thieves. Installing a fake PVC pipe with a removable cap can serve as a perfect hiding spot for rolled-up cash or small valuables. To make it look convincing, attach the pipe to existing plumbing with brackets. Ensure it matches the surrounding pipes in size and color. A slight dusting or some water spots can help it blend in naturally. Avoid placing it in an area with active leaks to prevent water damage. This method works well in both kitchens and bathrooms. Keep access discreet to prevent accidental discovery.
Inside a Wall-Mounted Clock
A wall-mounted clock with a hidden compartment can serve as a discreet hiding place. These clocks look and function like regular timepieces but have a concealed storage area behind the face. Choose a model with a secure back panel to keep valuables safe. Position it in a common area like a living room or hallway, where it won’t seem out of place. Some models come with a combination lock for added security. Avoid placing it in a bedroom, where burglars often spend the most time searching. A battery-operated clock ensures continuous function, making it appear authentic. This method works well for jewelry, emergency cash, or spare keys.
Inside a Curtain Rod
A curtain rod with a hollow interior can serve as a discreet hiding place for rolled-up cash or small valuables. Many standard rods can be modified to include a removable end cap. Place the rod in a common area where it blends with the decor. This hiding spot is perfect for lightweight items that need to be kept out of sight. Avoid using rods with heavy curtains, as they may shift frequently. Ensure the rod is securely fastened to prevent accidental discovery. A simple adhesive or magnetic closure can keep the end cap in place. This method is ideal for storing emergency funds discreetly.
Under a Floorboard
If you have wooden flooring, a loose floorboard can provide an excellent hiding spot. Choose an area that isn’t frequently walked on to prevent accidental shifting. Carefully pry up the floorboard, creating a small compartment underneath. Use a thin layer of dust or debris to ensure it blends in seamlessly. This method works especially well in older homes with slightly uneven flooring. Avoid placing anything bulky that could cause the board to stick out. Secure the floorboard with a hidden latch or magnet for easy access. This is a time-tested method for safely stashing valuables.
Inside a Fake Houseplant Pot
Houseplants are a great way to decorate, and they can double as hiding spots. Use a fake or real plant pot with a hidden compartment underneath. Place cash, jewelry, or documents inside a waterproof bag before burying them under the soil. If using a fake plant, select a pot with a removable base. Keep it in a common area where it blends in naturally. Avoid using a pot that might be frequently moved or watered. A dusty or slightly neglected plant makes the illusion more convincing. This method works particularly well in living rooms and home offices.
Inside a Stuffed Animal
A child’s stuffed animal is an unlikely place for burglars to check. Choose a plush toy that isn’t frequently played with. Carefully open a seam, insert a small waterproof bag with valuables, and sew it back up. Keep it among other stuffed animals to prevent suspicion. This is a great option for parents who want a discreet hiding place in their child’s room. Avoid using a toy that might be given away or thrown out. If needed, add a small zipper or Velcro for easy access. This method is simple, yet highly effective.
Inside a Hollowed-Out Candle
A large decorative candle can serve as a discreet hiding place. Carefully hollow out the center, leaving enough wax around the edges to maintain its shape. Store small valuables inside, then reseal the top with melted wax. Choose a candle that isn’t frequently moved or burned. Place it among other candles for added camouflage. Avoid using scented candles, as they may attract more attention. If desired, use a candle with a removable base for easier access. This method is perfect for hiding emergency cash or small jewelry items.
Behind a Wall-Mounted Picture Frame
A picture frame with a hidden compartment is a classic way to conceal valuables. Choose a sturdy frame with a hollow back or install a small safe behind it. Hang it in a common area where it won’t draw attention. A hinged design makes it easy to access when needed. Avoid using a frame with family photos that might be moved or adjusted often. Consider securing it with a magnetic latch for extra protection. This method works well for cash, passports, and important documents. A well-placed picture frame can keep valuables hidden in plain sight.
Inside a Hollow Door
Many interior doors are hollow and can be modified for hidden storage. Carefully cut out a small section and install a discreet compartment inside. Choose a door that isn’t frequently slammed or damaged. A removable panel or hidden latch ensures easy access. Avoid using exterior doors, as they may be reinforced with solid wood or metal. Keep the cutout well-concealed with a thin layer of paint or wallpaper. This method is great for storing cash, jewelry, or small valuables. A hollow door provides a secure and nearly undetectable hiding place.
Behind a Large Wall Mirror
A wall mirror with a hidden compartment behind it is an excellent way to store valuables securely. Many commercially available models include sliding panels or hinges for easy access. Choose a location where the mirror appears natural, such as a hallway or bedroom. Avoid placing it in high-traffic areas where it might be accidentally moved. Ensure the compartment is deep enough to store cash, jewelry, or important documents. Secure the mirror with discreet screws or magnets for easy removal. A slightly aged or decorative frame helps maintain the illusion. Since burglars typically focus on drawers and safes, this is an unexpected hiding spot.
Inside a Fake Outlet Strip
A non-functional power strip with a hidden compartment is a great place to store small valuables. Choose a model that looks realistic, with multiple plug slots and a working switch. Store cash, USB drives, or jewelry inside the hollowed-out section. Place it among other electronics for a natural look. Avoid using it as a working power strip to prevent accidental use. A slight layer of dust or a few attached cords can enhance its authenticity. Since burglars focus on larger electronics rather than accessories, this is an unexpected hiding place. Many commercial versions of fake outlet strips are available for added security.
Inside a Fake Garden Rock
If you have a garden or yard, a fake rock with a hidden compartment is an excellent outdoor hiding spot. These rocks blend in naturally with landscaping and can store keys, cash, or small valuables. Place it among real rocks to enhance the disguise. Choose a rock that doesn’t look too artificial or out of place. Avoid putting it in an area where landscapers or gardeners might move it. A waterproof seal ensures the contents remain dry. This is a great option for emergency cash or spare house keys.
Underneath a Stair Tread
If your home has a staircase, consider using the space under a stair tread as a hidden compartment. This involves removing a stair step and creating a concealed storage area. Ensure the step looks undisturbed and blends with the others. This is an ideal hiding place for important documents, cash, or valuables you don’t need daily access to. Burglars typically don’t have time to check under staircases. If possible, use a magnetic latch or hinge for easy access. This DIY project requires some carpentry skills but provides a very secure hiding spot.
Underneath a Heavy Piece of Furniture
If your home has a drop ceiling, you can use one of the tiles to create a hidden compartment. Choose a tile near a corner or in an area that isn’t frequently accessed. Store valuables in a sealed bag to protect them from dust and insulation. Burglars are unlikely to check ceilings unless they have reason to believe valuables are hidden there. Make sure the tile blends in perfectly with the rest. Avoid using a tile directly above a bed or desk where tampering might be obvious. This is a great long-term hiding spot for important documents or emergency cash.
Under a Rug
A simple but effective hiding spot is underneath a rug in a low-traffic area of your home. Instead of just slipping cash or valuables under the rug, use a flat, protective case or envelope to prevent bulging. A small, thin safe can also be embedded in the floor beneath a rug for added security. Avoid using this method in high-traffic areas where the rug could shift frequently. For extra protection, place a piece of furniture over part of the rug to prevent easy lifting. Ensure the rug lays naturally to avoid suspicion. This method is best for cash, important documents, or flat valuables. Regularly check that the rug remains in place and undisturbed.