Hiding a safe well is just as important as buying the right one. The more visible it is, the more likely it is to be found and tampered with. Whether you own your home, rent, or live with others, the goal is the same: keep your valuables protected and out of plain sight.
Here are the best places to hide a safe at home in 2025—with practical tips, real-life setups, and what to avoid.
1. Under the Floorboards
Why it works: It’s hard to find and even harder to remove. Floor safes sit beneath the floor and are usually covered by carpet, furniture, or a trapdoor.
Best for:
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High-value items like cash, jewellery, or backups
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Long-term storage of sensitive documents
How to do it well:
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Choose a safe rated for fire and water resistance
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Install it in concrete for added protection
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Avoid wooden subfloors unless reinforced
Tip: Use a rug, cabinet, or armchair to conceal the exact location.
2. Behind a False Wall or Panel
Why it works: False walls are excellent for wall safes. When paired with a discreet cover like a mirror, painting, or bookshelf, the safe is virtually invisible.
Best for:
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Wall safes with shallow depth
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Households where security needs to stay low-profile
How to do it well:
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Choose a wall that isn't an obvious target (e.g. behind a hallway mirror)
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Make sure the false panel matches the room’s materials and finishes
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Ensure the safe is bolted to a stud for strength
Tip: Avoid placing it behind obvious decoys like safes shown in TV shows (e.g. behind artwork in the master bedroom).
3. Inside Furniture
Why it works: Some safes are designed to be installed inside furniture like chests, cabinets, or even sofas. These blend in with everyday items and are often overlooked.
Best for:
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Compact safes with everyday access needs
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Shared homes where space is limited
How to do it well:
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Choose furniture with a hollow base or compartment
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Ensure it’s bolted inside or disguised by a false drawer
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Avoid overly obvious storage furniture like unlocked bedside tables
Tip: Custom furniture with integrated safe compartments can give you secure access without standing out.
4. In the Loft or Attic
Why it works: Burglars usually look for quick wins—the loft or attic is out of reach, takes time to access, and often goes unchecked.
Best for:
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Fireproof safes for documents
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Backup drives and less frequently used items
How to do it well:
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Install on a secure joist or reinforced platform
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Use a sealed safe with humidity protection
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Label boxes generically to blend in (e.g. "Seasonal Decorations")
Tip: Make sure you can still reach it easily when needed—don’t hide it so well you forget about it.
5. Behind Appliances or Utility Areas
Why it works: Safes placed behind washing machines, under sinks, or in boiler cupboards blend in with maintenance spaces. These aren't places thieves want to linger.
Best for:
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Small safes with quick-access valuables
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Concealed compartments for keys or documents
How to do it well:
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Use a waterproof, rust-resistant safe if near water
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Fix the safe securely to a wall stud or concrete
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Keep the area tidy to avoid drawing attention
Tip: Pair this with a motion sensor or hidden camera for added security.
Where NOT to Hide Your Safe
Some places are obvious and easily compromised:
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Under the bed (unless it's bolted and covered)
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In the garage (often unheated, exposed, or detached)
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Behind clear glass or see-through drawers
Burglars are familiar with these locations. Think beyond the obvious.
Smart Hiding Tips
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Rotate the hiding spot of portable safes if they’re not bolted
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Don’t discuss your safe’s location with people outside the household
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Use decoy safes or lockboxes in easy-to-find places
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Install motion detection or alerts for added protection
Final Thoughts
The best hiding place for your safe depends on your living setup, what you're protecting, and how often you need access. No safe is perfect without smart placement. Whether you live alone, with family, or housemates, hiding your safe well is a simple but powerful step toward better security.