Safe and Simple Ways to Hide Cash at Home

hiding cash in sock

Having emergency cash at home can be incredibly useful in times of need. However, it’s crucial to store your money in safe and creative places to keep it secure. While hiding your money in a bank is an option, it may not always provide you with immediate access to your funds.

Creative Ways to Hide Large Amounts of Cash at Home

Inside a Book

The bookshelf has been a great place to store money for a long time now. You can stack cash between the pages of one or two random books on your bookshelf. To make it less obvious, choose books that aren’t frequently read and ensure that the cash doesn’t create a noticeable bump. This way, even if someone does go through your bookshelf, they’re unlikely to find your hidden stash.

In a Safe or Lockbox

Safe deposit boxes with key in the hotel room

Storing your cash in a safe or lockbox is a popular option for many people. However, it’s crucial to ensure that your safe or lockbox isn’t easily accessible to potential thieves.

Consider hiding it in an unexpected location, such as a false bottom drawer or inside an empty household item like a can of beans. Remember to choose a high-quality safe or lockbox with a secure locking mechanism.

Inside an Empty Household Item

Speaking of household items, some items are perfect for hiding cash. Items such as empty cereal boxes, cleaning supply bottles, or even a can of soup can be used to conceal cash.

To make it extra sneaky, consider wrapping the money in plastic wrap or placing it in a ziplock bag before stashing it away.

Buried in the Yard

If you have a yard, burying your cash in a weatherproof container is a creative way to keep it safe. Choose a spot that isn’t easily visible and remember to mark the spot for future reference.

Additionally, it’s essential to ensure that the container is sealed tightly to prevent moisture from damaging your cash.

In a False Bottom Drawer

A false bottom drawer is an excellent place to hide your cash. You can install a false bottom in any drawer in your home, such as a desk or dresser.

To make it less obvious, choose a drawer that isn’t frequently used and ensure that the false bottom is flush with the real bottom. This way, even if someone were to go through your drawers, they’re unlikely to find your hidden stash.

In a Wall Safe

A wall safe is another excellent option for storing your cash. You can install a wall safe in any room of your home, such as a closet or pantry.

To make it less obvious, consider hiding the wall safe behind a painting or piece of furniture. Remember to choose a high-quality wall safe with a secure locking mechanism.

In a Hidden Room or Closet

If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, consider creating a hidden room or closet in your home. This option requires more effort and planning, but it’s an excellent way to keep your cash and other valuable items safe.

You can create a hidden room or closet behind a bookshelf, mirror, or even a false wall.

Inside a Picture Frame

A picture frame is an unexpected place to hide cash. You can remove the backing of the frame and place the money behind the photo. To make it less noticeable, choose a busy photo or print, so the money doesn’t create a noticeable bump.

Additionally, remember to choose a frame that isn’t frequently moved, so your secret stash remains safe.

In a Vacuum-Sealed Bag in the Freezer

Storing your cash in a vacuum-sealed bag in the freezer is a smart way to keep it safe from potential thieves.

Choose a spot in the back of the freezer and ensure that the bag is sealed tightly to prevent moisture from damaging your cash. Additionally, label the bag appropriately, so you don’t accidentally mistake it for something else.

In a Hidden Compartment in Furniture

Many types of furniture have hidden compartments that can be used to store your cash. For example, you can install a hidden compartment in a nightstand or coffee table.

Consider hiring a professional to install the compartment to ensure that it’s secure and won’t damage the furniture.

In a Hollowed Out Bible

If you have a bible lying around, consider hollowing it out and using it to store your cash. This option is perfect for those who want to keep their cash in a place that has sentimental value.

To make it less obvious, choose a bible that isn’t frequently read and ensure that the cover remains intact.

In a Secret Stash Can

A secret stash can is a can that looks like a regular household item but has a secret compartment inside. You can purchase these cans online or make your own by using an empty can of soda or soup.

To make it less obvious, choose a can that matches the other items in your pantry or kitchen.

In a Fake Plant or Flower Pot

Storing your cash in a fake plant or flower pot is a creative way to keep it safe. Choose a plant or flower pot that isn’t easily moved and ensure that the cash is wrapped in plastic wrap or a ziplock bag to prevent moisture damage. Additionally, consider adding fake soil or rocks on top of the cash to make it extra sneaky.

In a Hidden Floorboard

If you have hardwood floors in your home, consider hiding your cash in a hidden floorboard. Choose a spot that isn’t easily visible, such as under a rug or in a corner.

You can remove a floorboard and create a hidden compartment underneath to store your cash. Remember to seal the compartment tightly to prevent moisture from damaging your money.

In a Fake Electrical Outlet

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A fake electrical outlet is an excellent place to hide your cash. You can purchase a fake outlet online or make your own by using an actual electrical outlet cover.

To make it less obvious, choose a spot that isn’t easily visible and ensure that the cover looks like the other electrical outlets in your home.

What is the easiest way to hide money?

The easiest way to hide money is by keeping it in a secure and undisclosed location, such as a safe deposit box or a hidden compartment within your property.

Where did old timers hide their money?

Old timers often hid their money in unconventional places like buried treasure chests, secret compartments in furniture, or even within the walls of their homes.

What is the best way to hide money from the government?

It is not advisable to hide money from the government as it is illegal. Engaging in legal tax planning strategies and consulting with a financial advisor can help optimize your finances while staying compliant with the law. Hiding money from the government never ends well.

Should I hide cash in my house?

Hiding cash in your house is not recommended as it can be susceptible to theft, fire, or other unforeseen circumstances. It is generally safer to keep your money in insured bank accounts or invest it in secure financial instruments.

By Anita Brown

Anita Brown is our go-to contributor to our emergency preparedness website. Anita brings a wealth of personal experience and professional expertise to the table, having weathered several awful natural disasters. Anita is currently working towards obtaining her Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) certification.