How to Hide Your Spare Keys, the Clever Way
April 29, 2021
No one plans on getting locked out of their homes, but anything can happen in the course of a busy day: keys can get lost, broken, or — in the worst case — stolen. Whatever the reason, the annoyance of losing your trusted key can turn to panic if it’s your only way back inside. To avoid calling a locksmith or that friend who’s bailed you out too many times, it helps to keep a spare key on the premises as a backup. But with added security comes added risk, especially if you plan on hiding your spare outside. With some careful planning, however, you can rest assured that your spare key is kept secret, and you’ll always have a fail-safe way to enter your home.
If you think a half-inch doormat is going to thwart a burglar, think again. These criminals are experts on residential habits — they reside somewhere too, after all — and know all the commonplace hiding spots for spare keys. Since obtaining a spare means easy entry for burglars, they’ll thoroughly scan front yards when selecting targets, searching for tell-tale signs of hidden keys. Homeowners should be on high alert: dropping your spares in obvious spaces leaves you vulnerable to robbery, so if you’re going to outsmart a crook, you’ll need to look beyond doormats and flowerpots, and on to covert stash-spots.
While fake rocks are cliche and obvious, fear not: you can still hide your key on your property through an assortment of discreet and innovative key-holders disguised as common lawn equipment. Typically found online, these holders run anywhere from $5 - $20 — proof you don’t need to break the bank to beef up your home’s security.
You don’t need to drop money on fake-out key holders to keep your spares safe. Your lawn and its surrounding fixtures contain a plethora of nooks and crannies fit for a key.
- Bottle Method:
- Door Knocker:
- The Smaller House(s):
- License Plate:
- Tree:
Everyone deserves to feel secure in their home, and Brothers Locksmith believes in informing homeowners of any and all measures they can take to ensure their safety. Hiding a spare key is a good first-step, but if you’re in need of a little extra reassurance, call
to speak with one of our expert locksmiths, or check out our website
to learn more about our rekeying, lock repair, and installation services.
Call Us Any Time!
Heading out of the country? Learn simple and effective lock tips to protect your home while you're away, including how to secure doors, avoid common mistakes, and boost your home’s safety.
Video doorbells offer convenience and monitoring, but can they replace traditional locks? Learn how they compare and why using both gives bettVideo doorbells offer convenience and monitoring, but can they replace traditional locks? Learn how they compare and why using both gives better home security.er home security.
Thinking about switching to a fingerprint lock? Learn how these smart locks work, their pros and cons, and whether upgrading to one in 2025 is the right move for your home.
Biometric locks let you unlock your door with a fingerprint instead of a key. Learn how they work, their pros and cons, and if they’re a smart choice for your home in 2025.
Explore the top 5 smart lock trends of 2025, from fingerprint access to AI-powered scheduling. Discover how modern locks are transforming home security and making life more connected and convenient.
Spring cleaning isn’t just about clutter—don’t forget your locks! Discover the ultimate spring home maintenance checklist for lock care, including cleaning, lubricating, inspecting, and upgrading your locks for year-round security.
Planning a trip this summer? Discover the best locks for summer vacation security in 2025 — including smart deadbolts, high-security options, and expert tips to keep your home safe while you're away.
Wondering how often you should lubricate your locks? Learn the best maintenance schedule, what lubricants to use, and how to keep your locks working smoothly all year long.