When investing in a home safe, finding the right place to put it is just as important as choosing the safe itself. This is because the location you go for affects things like accessibility, security, and even how well the safe blends into your home.
There’s a lot to take into account. Should you go for a wall safe, one tucked away in a cupboard, or even one installed under the floor? In this guide we’ll help you to decide by exploring the pros and cons of each option in greater detail.
Wall safes
Top-level: discreet and space-saving
Wall safes are an excellent option for those who want security without sacrificing floor space. Installed within a wall cavity, they’re tucked out of the way behind furniture, mirrors, or artwork, making them difficult for burglars to detect.
- Best for small valuables: these safes are ideal for storing jewellery, cash, and important documents, especially items you need to access regularly.
- Concealable & secure: by being hidden behind everyday objects, wall safes provide an added layer of security.
- Installation considerations: these safes require a recessed wall cavity which may limit safe size and weight capacity. Additionally, wall safes must be properly secured to prevent tampering or forced removal.
- Accessibility & convenience: unlike underfloor safes, wall safes allow you to access your belongings easily without having to bend down or lift floor panels.
If space is limited and you prefer a safe that remains out of sight yet easily accessible, a wall safe could be your best choice.
Cupboard safes
Top-level: convenient and secure
Cupboard safes offer a practical blend of security and accessibility. Whether placed inside a wardrobe, cabinet, or storage unit, these safes keep valuables secure while remaining easy to reach for frequent use.
- Great for regular use: perfect for storing passports, watches, emergency cash, and valuable documents that need to be accessed often.
- Blends with storage spaces: a cupboard safe integrates seamlessly without standing out, making it a practical and convenient security solution.
- Security tip: to prevent theft, ensure the safe is bolted to a solid structure rather than simply placed on a shelf. Many burglars will attempt to remove safes entirely if they are not properly secured.
- Installation flexibility: cupboard safes can often be installed with minimal alterations to your home, unlike underfloor or wall safes, which require more extensive modifications.
For those who prioritise accessibility and ease of installation, a cupboard safe is a practical and effective security option.
Underfloor safes
Top-level: maximum security and concealment
For the ultimate in discreet security, underfloor safes offer exceptional protection. Installed beneath floorboards or within concrete, they are extremely difficult for burglars to find and remove.
- Ideal for high-value storage: suitable for jewellery, important documents, and cash that doesn’t require frequent access. High-value assets that need long-term security are best suited for underfloor safes.
- Completely hidden: nearly impossible for intruders to detect without prior knowledge, offering one of the highest levels of concealment.
- Professional installation required: requires planning and setup, often needing a secure concrete foundation to ensure the safe remains firmly in place and protected from tampering.
- Protection from fire & theft: many underfloor safes are highly fire-resistant due to their placement, and their secure anchoring makes them incredibly difficult to remove.
If long-term security and concealment are your top priorities, an underfloor safe is an excellent investment, though it requires more effort in installation and access.
Factors to consider when choosing where to put your safe
Before deciding on a location for your home safe, consider the following:
- Security level: the more concealed the safe, the harder it is for burglars to locate and access.
- Ease of access: if you need to retrieve valuables frequently, a cupboard or wall safe is more convenient, whereas an underfloor safe is better for long-term storage of high-value items.
- Installation requirements: wall and underfloor safes require more effort and planning to install, often involving professional assistance, while cupboard safes are generally easier to set up and move if needed.
- Home layout & space considerations: ensure your chosen placement works with the structure of your home.
Choose well for peace of mind
To summarise: a wall safe is a great balance of security and accessibility, a cupboard safe offers convenience and simple installation, while an underfloor safe provides maximum discretion and theft protection.
When deciding, remember that the right safe placement depends on factors like lifestyle, security concerns, and how often you need to access your valuables. Ultimately, assessing your home’s layout and security priorities will help you make the best decision for safeguarding your most prized possessions. Whatever you choose, investing in the right safe and placing it strategically will offer peace of mind and protection.
