The Best Way To Store Spare Keys Outside Your Home (Without Handing Them to Burglars)
Hey there, fellow key-forgetters and lockout survivors! Let’s talk about something we’ve all messed up at least once: hiding spare keys outside. You know the drill—you tuck one under the mat, bury it in a fake rock that screams “STEAL ME,” or trust your dog’s chew toy as a secure vault. Spoiler alert: none of these work. But don’t worry, we’ve got your back (and your keys). As locksmiths here in Los Angeles, we’ve seen it all—from residential lockout service calls at 2 a.m. to emergency locksmith requests after someone’s “genius” hiding spot failed spectacularly. Let’s dive into smarter, safer solutions.
Classic Spots We’ve All Tried (And Why They’re Terrible)
We get it—hiding keys feels like a harmless game of hide-and-seek. But here’s the kicker: burglars aren’t toddlers. They know your tricks. Let’s roast the usual suspects:
Under the Doormat
Ah, the classic. It’s like leaving a welcome mat for thieves. FYI, this is the first place they’ll check.
Fake Rocks
Unless your yard looks like the moon, that plastic lump isn’t fooling anyone. Bonus points if it’s labeled “FAKE ROCK” on Amazon.
Flower Pots
Great for plants, terrible for security. Burglars aren’t scared of dirt—or your grandma’s geraniums.
Dog Houses
Sure, Fido’s cute, but he’s not exactly a safe locksmith. Plus, soggy kibble isn’t a key’s best friend.
So, What Actually Works? Think Like a Pro (Or Just Call One)
If you’re serious about security, skip the gimmicks. Here’s what we recommend as door lock technicians who’ve spent years in the trenches:
Lockboxes: The Boring-but-Brilliant Option
A heavy-duty lockbox bolted to your wall or fence beats a fake rock any day. Look for ones with:
- Weatherproof design (because L.A. “sunshine” can be a liar).
- Combination locks (no keys to lose—meta, right?).
- Tamper alarms (because we like drama, but not the kind that empties your wallet).
Pro Tip: Avoid cheap lockboxes from big-box stores. They’re about as secure as a screen door on a submarine. For something reliable, ask us at LALA Locksmiths—we install commercial-grade models for homes and businesses.
Magnetic Key Holders: Sneaky But Risky
Stick one under your car bumper or grill. Just remember:
- They’re not invincible (rust, magnets failing, etc.).
- Never use them for auto door lock repair emergencies. Trust us, fishing for keys in a tailpipe isn’t fun.
Give a Key to Someone You Trust (Like, Actually Trust)
Your neighbor who waters your plants? Great. Your cousin who “borrows” your car? Hard pass.
When DIY Fails, Call a Locksmith Near Me
Look, we love a good DIY project—but not when it comes to security. Here’s where the pros shine:
Keyless Entry Systems
Why hide keys when you can ditch them entirely? Smart locks let you:
- Unlock doors via phone.
- Create temporary codes for guests.
- Panic silently when the Wi-Fi goes out.
High-Security Hiding Spots
We’ve installed everything from disguised wall vents to underground vaults (yes, really). One client even hid a key inside a fake sprinkler head. Genius? Maybe. Overkill? Never.
Emergency Solutions
Locked out? Don’t kick the door—unless you want to add door lock repair services to your tab. Call a mobile locksmith like us instead. We’ll get you in faster than you can say, “I swear I left it under the mat!”
The Ultimate Comparison: Hiding Spots vs. Pro Solutions
Let’s break it down with a table even your skeptical spouse will love:
| Method | Cost | Security | Burglar-Proof? | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fake Rock | $10 | 1/10 | Nope | Comedy routines |
| Lockbox | $50-$200 | 8/10 | Mostly | Homes, rentals |
| Smart Lock | $150-$300 | 9/10 | Yes | Tech lovers |
| Professional Hiding Spot | $100+ | 10/10 | Yes | Paranoid perfectionists |
Wait, What About Rentals or Businesses?
Glad you asked! If you’re a landlord or manage a business in Los Angeles, hiding keys isn’t just risky—it’s a liability. Imagine a disgruntled ex-tenant waltzing back in because you used the same fake rock for five properties. Yikes.
For commercial locksmith services, we recommend:
- Master Key Systems: Control access without hiding 20 keys.
- Keyless Entry for Employees: Track who comes and goes.
- Eviction Locksmith Help: Change locks FAST after a tenant moves out.
And hey, if you’re in a pinch, our emergency locksmith team operates 24/7. Because break-ins (and breakups) don’t wait for business hours.
3 Burning Questions, Answered
Q: What if someone finds my hidden key?
A: Change your locks ASAP. Better yet, call a door lock mechanic like us to upgrade your system.
Q: Are smart locks worth the hype?
A: IMO, yes—unless you’re the type who forgets phone passwords too.
Q: Can’t I just leave a window unlocked?
A: Sure, if you want to star in a true-crime podcast.
Final Thoughts: Be Smarter Than the Average Fake Rock
Storing keys outside is like playing chess with burglars—you need strategy, not hope. Whether you go DIY or call a pro (cough like LALA Locksmiths cough), prioritize security over convenience. And if all else fails, remember: we’re just a call away for residential lockout service, commercial lock repair, or even a friendly reality check about your flower pot idea.
Stay safe, L.A.!
Need a hand? Whether it’s auto door lock repair or a full commercial locksmith services overhaul, LALA Locksmiths has your back. Give us a shout—we’re faster than your dog when he hears the treat bag.
