We listed 10 tips for a practical guide to keeping your keys—and your sanity—under control. Few things are more frustrating than standing outside your home, car, or office, staring at a locked door while your keys are safely—or mysteriously—inside. Lockouts and lost keys aren’t just inconvenient; they can be stressful, time-consuming, and expensive if you need an emergency locksmith. The good news is, with a few smart habits and a bit of planning, you can drastically reduce your chances of being locked out.
Tips to Prevent Lockouts and Lost Keys in Glen Waverley
1. Keep Spare Keys in Safe Places
One of the simplest ways to avoid a lockout is to have spare keys on hand. But don’t just hide them under the doormat—burglars know the classic spots. Instead:
- Give a spare key to a trusted friend, neighbour, or family member.
- Store a key in a secure lockbox outside your property.
- Keep a backup key at work if it’s safe to do so.
Having a trusted spare key accessible can save you hours of stress and the cost of emergency locksmith services. However, if you’re concerned about who else might have access to your property, rekeying is often a safer and more affordable option compared to replacing your locks entirely. When it comes to the rekeying cost in Melbourne, prices typically vary depending on the type of lock and the number of locks that need rekeying. For homeowners and businesses alike, rekeying is a cost-effective way to restore security without breaking the budget.
2. Use Key Organisers
Losing keys often comes down to misplacing them. A key organiser or keyring can make a huge difference. Look for:
- Brightly coloured keychains that are easy to spot.
- Smart key holders that attach to your bag or belt loop.
- Key trackers or Bluetooth-enabled devices that help you locate keys via your phone.
Even small tweaks like these make your keys easier to manage and reduce the chances of losing them altogether.
3. Establish a Routine
A consistent routine can prevent forgetfulness. For example:
- Always place keys in the same pocket, bag, or hook when you get home.
- Check for keys, wallet, and phone before leaving any location.
- Develop a mental checklist when leaving your car, home, or office.
Repetition helps turn good key habits into second nature, drastically cutting down on accidental lockouts.
4. Upgrade Your Locks
Old or faulty locks can be a nightmare, especially if keys get stuck or break inside. Upgrading to modern, reliable locks reduces the risk of being locked out due to mechanical failure. Options to consider include:
- High-security deadbolts for homes and offices
- Keyless entry systems, like digital keypads or smart locks
- Car key fobs or electronic access for vehicles
Modern locks not only improve security but can also eliminate some common lockout scenarios entirely. Contact a nearby Glen Waverley locksmith to upgrade your locks swiftly.
5. Make Copies of Important Keys
Having multiple copies of essential keys is a no-brainer. Keep them in strategic locations so you’re never left stranded. For example:
- A spare house key with a trusted friend or family member
- An extra car key hidden safely at home
- Backup keys for sheds, gates, or outbuildings
Just remember to label them clearly and store them securely—spares are only helpful if they don’t end up in the wrong hands.
6. Consider Smart Lock Solutions
Smart locks are a modern solution for avoiding lockouts. These locks let you enter via:
- PIN codes
- Smartphone apps
- Keycards or fobs
Some smart locks also send alerts if a door is left open or someone tries to tamper with it. With these systems, you can reduce the chances of being locked out while boosting overall security.
7. Keep Car Keys Secure
Car lockouts are among the most stressful situations. Prevent them by:
- Always placing keys in the same spot in your bag, pocket, or at home
- Avoiding leaving keys inside the car, even for a minute
- Considering spare car keys or keyless entry options for added convenience
Being consistent and careful with car keys can save a lot of hassle—especially on busy mornings or late nights.
8. Have a Backup Plan for Emergencies
Even with the best habits, accidents happen. Planning can make a lockout much easier to handle:
- Keep the number of a trusted locksmith saved in your phone
- Know the location of nearby hardware stores for temporary fixes
- Maintain access codes, spare keys, or master keys securely on-site for workplaces
Being prepared minimizes panic and ensures you can resolve a lockout quickly and safely.
9. Label Your Keys Carefully
It’s tempting to label keys for convenience, but don’t make it obvious. Avoid writing your address or “front door” on the key. Instead:
- Use coded labels or stickers that only you can understand
- Colour-code keys to differentiate between home, car, office, and shed
This keeps your keys organised, easy to identify, and reduces the risk of mistakes or lost keys.
10. Regularly Check and Maintain Locks
Sometimes, lockouts happen because the lock itself fails. Regular maintenance keeps your locks in good condition:
- Lubricate locks with graphite powder or specialist lock lubricant
- Check for worn or bent keys
- Replace old locks prone to sticking or breaking
Regular care prevents surprises and keeps your keys and locks working smoothly.
Final Thoughts
Lockouts and lost keys are inconvenient, but most can be avoided with simple habits and planning. Keeping spare keys, using key organisers, maintaining routines, and investing in modern locks or smart solutions can save you time, stress, and money.
Even with all precautions, emergencies can still happen. That’s why it’s wise to have a trusted locksmith on hand. By combining good habits, secure storage, and regular lock maintenance, you can keep your keys safe, your doors accessible, and your day stress-free.