We’ve all tucked a few bills under the mattress or taped emergency cash inside a book. But if you plan to hide money in your house, some stashes are way riskier than others! Before a sneaky relative or a burglar beats you to your nest egg, check out these hiding spots you should definitely avoid. We’ll also share a few safer alternatives to secure your hard-earned cash.
It seems trivial but did you know that in 2022 there were 847,522 burglaries reported to the FBI? While recent FBI data shows a slight downturn, don’t let that lull you into a false sense of security.
1. Under the Mattress
The classic hiding spot is also one of the worst! Burglars know this trick, and it’s the first place they’ll look. Plus, even without a break-in, money can get lost in bedding, accidentally thrown out during cleaning, or even chewed on by a curious pet.
2. In Your Socks or Underwear Drawer
Seems clever, right? Unfortunately, these are common spots for burglars to rummage through. If you hide money in your house within clothing drawers; your cash won’t be safe for long, and it might even end up accidentally donated with old clothes.
3. Inside Old Electronics
Got an unused DVD player or old radio? Bad idea to stash cash inside. If you decide to donate or sell the item, chances are your hidden money is going with it, plus electronics can create a fire hazard if not handled properly.
4. In Hollowed-Out Books
Movies make this look clever, but it’s a well-known trick. Burglars might snatch a whole shelf of books and shake them out, and your cash flutters to the floor but not when you have a hidden floor safes. It also risks damage from moisture or pests, leaving your money in a tattered state.
5. Underneath Piles of Clothes
Whether it’s in a closet or a dresser drawer, hiding valuables at home among clothes is easily overlooked. A quick search from a thief, accidental inclusion in a laundry pile, or being moved by a well-meaning family member cleaning up, and your money could be gone.
6. Behind Picture Frames
Flat and easy, right? Not so fast – burglars are wise to this one. Picture frames are easily removed and shaken out, revealing any hidden money tucked behind. Plus, the risk of creasing or tearing your bills is high.
7. Inside Air Vents
Air vents may seem sneaky, but they’re not foolproof. Dust can damage bills, and if you forget about your stash, that money could be swirling through your house, or worse, accidentally vacuumed up. Loose vents can also allow your stash to fall into hard-to-reach places.
8. In the Freezer
Think a burglar won’t look in your icebox? Think again! Money hidden in the freezer is prone to moisture damage (frostbite for your cash!), and it’s an obvious place to check for anyone seeking quick cash. Plus, you might forget it’s there and accidentally thaw your hidden stash.
9. In Your Medicine Cabinet
Prescription bottles seem innocuous, but sadly, burglars often target medicine cabinets. Your cash won’t be safe here, especially if there’s a potential for accidental disposal when cleaning out expired meds, or if the thief takes the whole bottle along.
10. In the Cookie Jar (or any kitchen container)
The kitchen is one of the first places burglars target, and those “obvious” spots are easy pickings. Resist stashing your money in any food container, even in the pantry – it’s not secure, and accidental spills could ruin your cash.
11. Inside Your Toilet Tank
While a burglar might not relish the idea, desperate thieves will search anywhere, including the toilet tank. Water damage is a huge risk, rendering your hidden money useless, and you might accidentally flush it during routine cleaning.
12. Buried in Houseplants
Soil can contain moisture and insects that will ruin your bills. Plus, repotting the plant or accidental overwatering could create a muddy mess where your money used to be.
13. Stuffed in Shoes
Whether it’s unused footwear or your daily sneakers, shoes are easy targets. Burglars may dump out entire closets, and your cash could easily end up misplaced or damaged.
14. Taped Under Furniture
A quick sweep under couches and chairs is common practice for a thief. Don’t leave your money vulnerable by taping it to readily accessible areas like furniture undersides.
Safer Options
While hiding money in your house is always a bit risky, consider a small fireproof safe, a diversion safe (like a fake product container), or for larger amounts, a bank safe deposit box.
Read More
How to Tell If Your Spouse Is Hiding Money
Red Flags: 10 Telltale Signs a Man May Be Using a Woman for Her Money
Randell Suba
Randell is an online media professional with more than 15 years of experience specializing in technology, finance, travel, cars, lifestyle, among others. He's passionate about helping people make informed decisions and find meaningful connections through his content. Let's talk about the things that make life a little more interesting.
No Comments yet!