15 Spots Burglars Always Check for Valuables in a Home

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Most people focus on home security by locking doors and windows, but few consider how predictable their hiding spots for valuables might be. Burglars are opportunistic and knowledgeable about where people stash their most prized possessions. They often know exactly where to look, making it easier to find what they want in minutes.

If you rely on the usual spots to keep your valuables safe, you might give burglars precisely what they want. This article will highlight the spots where burglars frequently check for valuables in a home. From easily overlooked areas to popular hiding places, knowing where thieves are likely to search can empower you to fortify your defenses.

Master Bedroom

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The master bedroom is often the first place burglars target because it’s where most people keep their jewelry, cash, and other valuables. It typically contains items of personal and financial significance, making it a prime target for theft. Burglars will methodically search under the mattress for anything hidden away for safekeeping.

Dresser Drawers

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Many believe hiding valuable items in a sock or underwear drawer will keep them safe from theft, but burglars know this common trick. These dresser drawers are often the first places they check during a break-in. Being easy to access and rifle through, they are prime targets for those searching swiftly for hidden valuables.  

Closets

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Closets, particularly those in the master bedroom, are prime spots for burglars to search during a break-in. These intruders often hunt for items like lockboxes, jewelry, cash, and other valuables that might be hidden away. They look on shelves, inside shoeboxes, or behind hanging clothing.  

Under the Bed

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Burglars know that many people use the space under their beds for quick and easy storage, making it a prime target during their search. To better protect your belongings, consider investing in a secure lockbox or safe place in a less obvious location.

Bathroom Cabinets

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Thieves often search bathroom and medicine cabinets for prescription drugs, which can be quickly sold on the black market or used for personal consumption. They may also look for small valuables like jewelry or cash hidden there, taking advantage of the fact that people often store such items in unexpected places.  

Freezer or Fridge

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Although hiding money or valuables in the freezer is a clever idea, seasoned burglars are wise to this tactic and are known to search these areas thoroughly. They will check inside frozen food boxes, under ice trays, and behind other items tucked away in the fridge and freezer compartments.  

Home Office

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Intruders also target home offices, especially if they’re looking for important documents, checkbooks, or electronic devices. These spaces often contain valuable information and technology that can appeal to them. They’ll search desk drawers, filing cabinets, and even bookshelves, usually taking time to rummage through paperwork and look for hidden safes or money.

Living Room

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The living room is often a hub of activity and a common place to find expensive electronics, such as large-screen TVs, state-of-the-art gaming consoles, and sophisticated sound systems. These high-value items are prime targets for burglars looking to profit quickly.

Bookshelves

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Burglars often check bookshelves for hidden safes, hollowed-out books, or small valuables tucked behind rows of books. They know people frequently use these spots to conceal items they want to keep out of sight. Even though it seems like a clever hiding spot, it’s one they’re likely to search thoroughly.  

Jewelry Boxes

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Leaving jewelry in a box on your dresser or a drawer is practically an invitation for burglars. Thieves commonly search these spots first, making jewelry boxes easy targets. They often prioritize these items due to their high value and portability, allowing them to seize and pocket your valuables quickly.

Kitchen Cabinets

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While it may not seem obvious initially, experienced burglars know that some individuals hide cash or valuables in the kitchen, assuming it is an unconventional spot. These intruders will likely check inside cabinets, especially those that appear less frequently used. They might search behind stacks of dishes or in the corners where items are usually tucked away, believing these places to be effective hiding spots.

Attic or Basement

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Attics and basements are often overlooked areas in home security, making them appealing targets for burglars. Many homeowners use these spaces for storage, including various items—from seasonal decorations to unneeded furniture. Burglars know these areas can be less frequently accessed and may present opportunities to find hidden valuables.

Garage

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The garage is not just for cars and tools; it’s also a place where people might store extra cash, spare keys, or other valuables they want to keep out of sight. In addition to housing vehicles and mechanical equipment, garages often become a storage hub for seasonal items, sports gear, and household overflow.  

Children’s Rooms

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Burglars are not above looking in children’s bedrooms for valuable items. They know these rooms often contain expensive electronics, such as gaming systems, tablets, laptops, and smartphones. Thieves also know that children frequently receive valuable gifts for birthdays or holidays, making their rooms potential treasure troves.

Wall Safes

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Wall safes may seem like a secure place to store valuables, but burglars who know where to look can quickly locate them. These intruders will often check behind wall paintings or closets for signs of a safe, then use tools to break into it quickly. Investing in quality home security measures and considering alternative hiding spots for your most valuable items is essential.

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