When it comes to the security and convenience of our homes, finding the right balance can be a challenge. One common dilemma many homeowners face is where to hide a spare key outside of the house. While it’s essential to have a backup plan for those moments when you forget your keys or get locked out, it’s equally important to consider the safety implications of hiding your keys.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore various secure and ingenious ways to hide spare keys outside your house, ensuring both accessibility and peace of mind.
The Importance of Hiding Your Spare Key
We’ve all experienced those moments of panic when we find ourselves locked out of our homes. Having a spare key conveniently hidden outside can save you from the frustration and inconvenience of waiting for a locksmith or bothering a trusted neighbor to unlock your home. However, it’s crucial to strike a balance between accessibility and security. By employing clever hiding methods, you can ensure that only trusted individuals can access your spare key.
Factors to Consider Before Hiding Spare House Key
Before exploring the different hiding options, it’s essential to consider several factors to ensure you make the right decision. Take into account the weather conditions in your area, the layout of your property, and the level of foot traffic in your neighborhood. These considerations will help you choose the most secure and inconspicuous hiding spot for your spare key.
Traditional Hiding Places to Hide a Spare Key
Some of the common places people hide their keys are:
Under the Doormat
One of the most well-known hiding spots for spare keys is under the welcome mat. Unfortunately, this is also one of the first places that burglars and intruders would check. Avoid this common hiding spot to ensure the safety of your home.
Inside a Fake Rock
Fake rocks with hidden compartments have been popular for hiding keys for years. These rocks blend into the natural surroundings and can be placed discreetly in your garden or near your front porch. However, their popularity also means that burglars are aware of this hiding spot. It’s essential to choose a realistic-looking fake rock and place it inconspicuously to maintain its effectiveness.
Inside a Birdhouse
A birdhouse with a hidden compartment provides excellent camouflage for your spare key. By placing it in an area with other birdhouses or near a tree, you can make it less conspicuous. However, ensure that the birdhouse remains functional and that birds continue to use it. Otherwise, it might draw unnecessary attention.
Beneath a Potted Plant
Keeping your spare key hidden beneath a potted plant is a classic method that offers both convenience and a natural disguise. Choose a plant with dense foliage to conceal the key effectively. However, avoid using this method if your potted plant is highly visible or frequently moved.
In the Mailbox
Placing a spare key inside your mailbox might seem like a convenient option, but it’s also a risky one. Intruders are aware of this common hiding spot, and some mailboxes can be easily accessed without a key. Avoid compromising the security of your home by exploring alternative options.
Creative Ways and Places to Hide a Key
Believe it or not, some of the good hiding places for spare keys are when you hide a key in plain sight. Some of which are:
Buried in the Garden
If you have a garden or yard, burying a spare key can be an effective method to keep it hidden. Choose a discreet location away from commonly trafficked areas and use a waterproof container to protect the key from the elements. Remember to mark the burial spot subtly to ensure you can locate it when needed.
Inside a Drainpipe
An innovative approach to hiding a key outside is to place it inside a drainpipe. Ensure that the key is secured in a way that it doesn’t fall deeper into the pipe or become easily dislodged. This method offers excellent camouflage and discourages potential intruders from searching for the key in this unconventional location.
Taped to the Back of a Sign
Consider attaching your spare key to the back of a sign near your entrance. Choose a sign that is not frequently moved or disturbed, ensuring that the key remains securely in place. This method can be especially effective if the sign is inconspicuous and blends naturally with its surroundings.
Inside a Waterproof Container
Investing in a high-quality waterproof container designed explicitly for hiding keys is a reliable option. These containers are often designed to mimic common outdoor objects such as fake sprinkler heads or rocks. Look for one that matches the aesthetic of your yard or garden, ensuring that it remains inconspicuous.
Inside a Locked Key box
For enhanced security, consider using a locked key box to store your spare key. These boxes are designed to be mounted securely and require a combination of keys to access the hidden key. Choose a sturdy and weather-resistant key box or key holder to ensure the longevity of this hiding method.
Precautions to Take When Keeping a Spare Key Hidden
While finding the right hiding spot for your spare key is crucial, it’s equally important to take additional precautions to safeguard your home and maintain security.
Choose a Discreet Location
Select a hiding spot that is discreet and not easily visible to passersby. Avoid areas that are frequently inspected, such as windowsills or obvious outdoor fixtures. By choosing a concealed location, you reduce the risk of your spare key being discovered by unauthorized individuals.
Protect Against Weather Conditions
Ensure that the hiding spot you choose offers adequate protection against various weather conditions. Extreme heat, rain, or snow can damage the spare key or render it inaccessible. Opt for waterproof containers or hidden compartments that can withstand the elements and keep your key safe and dry.
Regularly Change Hiding Spots
To maintain the security of your spare key, it’s advisable to change hiding spots periodically. Even if you trust your current method, it’s better to err on the side of caution and adopt a rotation system. This practice ensures that even if someone discovers your previous hiding spot, they won’t find the key.
Inform Trusted Individuals
Communicate the location of your spare key only to trusted individuals such as family members or close friends. Restrict the knowledge of its whereabouts to individuals who may need access to your home in case of emergencies. By limiting the number of people who know about the key, you minimize the risk of unauthorized entry.
Consider Electronic Options
In addition to traditional hiding methods, consider modern electronic options for keyless entry to your home. Smart locks and keypad systems provide secure alternatives to physical keys. These systems eliminate the need for hiding a spare house key outside while still ensuring accessibility for authorized individuals.
Conclusion
Finding the right hiding spot for a spare key outside your house requires careful consideration of security and accessibility. By exploring various traditional and creative methods, you can strike a balance that ensures the safety of your home while providing a backup plan for those moments when you find yourself locked out. Remember to take precautions, regularly reassess your hiding spot, and consider modern electronic alternatives for added convenience and security.
When it comes to protecting your home and loved ones, you need a reliable and trusted home security system. Callaway Security is here to provide you with top-notch home security solutions tailored to your specific needs. Don’t compromise the security of your home and contact us today.
