Many Arizonans think they’ve got a secret hiding spot at home that’s totally genius. A little cash under the mattress, jewelry in a shoebox, maybe a spare key under the flowerpot out front.

Feels smart, right?

Unfortunately, burglars know all these hiding places—and then some. When someone breaks into a house, they don’t wander around clueless. They go straight for the usual suspects.

If you’ve been using one of these spots, it’s time to get a little more creative.

Under the Mattress

This is probably the oldest trick in the book. Grandma did it, your mom probably did it, and chances are, someone reading this right now has a stack of emergency cash tucked under their bed.

But here’s the thing: burglars often look there first. It’s almost like hiding something in plain sight.

They don’t even have to work for it. Flip the mattress, boom—there’s your life savings in a Ziploc bag. Even if you taped it to the frame or stuffed it inside the box spring, there’s still a good chance they’ll find it.

The bottom line?

If your hiding strategy involves your bed, it’s time to rethink it.

Inside the Freezer

Oh yes, the old “hide it in the freezer” trick. People love this one. They wrap up money in foil like it’s leftovers and stick it next to the frozen waffles, thinking no one will ever notice.

But let’s be honest—this one’s been exposed on practically every crime show and true-crime podcast out there.

Burglars expect to find something chilly in the freezer. They’ll dig through frozen peas, check inside ice cream containers, and pull apart microwave meals.

So if you’ve got your grandma’s wedding ring chilling next to a bag of pizza rolls, maybe give that a second thought.

The freezer isn’t some secret vault anymore—it’s a top-5 hotspot for crooks.

Dresser Drawers

Dressers are like burglar playgrounds. There’s usually a bunch of drawers, and most people think they’re being clever by stuffing valuables under a stack of socks or buried beneath their jeans.

But that’s exactly what thieves hope you’ll do.

You can count on them yanking those drawers open and tossing stuff around like they’re in a rush (because, well, they are). J

ewelry, watches, random cash—it’s all up for grabs if it’s in there. And if it’s hidden in something soft, like rolled-up shirts or old PJs? That’s even easier to search.

So yeah, as cozy and convenient as your dresser seems, it’s not the secure little treasure chest you might think it is.

Bathroom Cabinets

You wouldn’t think the bathroom would be a hotspot for burglars, but oh, it is. People hide stuff in medicine cabinets, under the sink, even in empty pill bottles or tampon boxes.

Just like you’ve seen hiding hacks on TikTok, burglars have, too.

Hiding jewelry in a Band-Aid box?

Old move.

Slipping cash into the back of the toilet paper stash?

Please.

If it’s in the bathroom and it looks even remotely suspicious, they’re probably going to find it. The bathroom feels like a random spot, so homeowners think it’s safe. But in reality, it’s just another place on the burglar’s checklist.

Kitchen Cupboards

Hiding your valuables in a box of cereal or behind the flour might’ve worked when you were a kid trying to keep your Halloween candy safe. But adults trying to outsmart burglars?

Not so much.

The kitchen is actually a huge target. Burglars go through cupboards, cookie jars, pasta boxes—whatever looks like it could hide something small.

And yes, they will dump a bag of sugar out if they think there’s something inside.

So if your “safe place” is wedged between a can of green beans and the toaster? It’s time to come up with something better. Burglars know kitchens can be treasure troves for folks who think they’re being sly.

Closets

Closets might seem like chaos to you, but to a burglar? That’s potential jackpot territory.

People hide things in shoeboxes, coat pockets, purses, and random old bags all the time. And crooks know it.

They’ll pull everything out and go through it fast. Got an old suitcase in the back? They’re checking it. A winter coat that hasn’t moved in months? Yup, they’re digging in those pockets too.

It’s easy to think that something buried under a pile of scarves is safe.

But burglars are good at digging.

Nightstands

The nightstand is like the VIP section of the bedroom for burglars. That little drawer next to the bed often holds something good, if only prescription medicine.

People toss cash, jewelry, even their wallets or keys in their nightstands without even thinking.

Burglars go straight for it. It’s one of the first things they check. And they’re not going to miss it just because you put your ring under a box of tissues or a flashlight.

It’s super convenient for you, which makes it super convenient for them too.

If it’s next to your bed, chances are, it’s already on their radar.

Behind Picture Frames

Hiding stuff behind picture frames sounds smart… until you remember that literally every crime show ever has shown that trick.

It’s not a secret anymore.

Crooks will check behind anything that looks like it might have a hollow back or a loose nail. If there’s a picture hanging just a little crooked, they’ll spot it in a second. Some frames even have little hidden compartments, and yes—they know about those too.

So if you’ve taped a couple of $100 bills behind a photo of your dog, it might be time to try something new.

That trick is way too common now.

Toilet Tank

People actually hide stuff in the toilet tank. Like, inside the top where the water is. Sure, it seems a little gross, which is why folks assume burglars won’t bother.

But news flash—they totally will.

It takes two seconds to lift that lid. And if there’s a baggie of cash or a tiny safe box in there, it’s gone. You’re not the first genius to think of it, and crooks know that bathroom trick way too well.

If your valuables are swimming next to the flapper valve, you might want to find them a new home—preferably one that doesn’t involve plumbing.

Laundry Hampers

Dirty laundry seems like a burglar deterrent, right? Who wants to dig through someone’s gym clothes or week-old socks?

Apparently, burglars don’t mind at all.

They know people hide things under clothes or inside pillowcases in the hamper. Some even go the extra mile and sew secret pockets into towels or sweatshirts. Nice try—but not good enough.

If a thief’s already in your house, you better believe they’ll flip that laundry basket without hesitation. Funky smells don’t stop them from sniffing out valuables.

Inside Books or Fake Book Safes

Those hollowed-out books you can buy online? Or the sneaky DIY ones where you cut out pages and stash cash inside?

Yeah… burglars know about those too.

A shelf full of books might not seem interesting at first, but if there’s one that looks extra out of place—or if the cover says something ridiculous like “The History of Boring Finance”—they’ll usually take a peek.

Fake books are not new, and crooks have seen them before.

Even hiding money inside a regular book isn’t foolproof. Burglars don’t have to read—they just flip pages and shake stuff out. So unless you’ve got a really boring library, books aren’t the safest spot for your valuables.

Under Rugs or Floor Mats

Sliding something under the rug by the front door might seem sneaky… until you realize everyone does it. Spare keys, cash, emergency credit cards—they all end up under rugs at some point.

Burglars know to check there immediately. It’s one of the first places they look when they walk in. Same goes for mats in the kitchen or bathroom.

Even if the hiding spot feels random to you, it’s totally obvious to them.

If your plan is “hide it under something flat,” just know that a burglar’s already five steps ahead of you. That rug’s not fooling anyone.

Weirdest Laws in Each State

Most Americans are clear on treating thy neighbor as they’d want to be treated to reduce the chance of fines and jail time. But did you know you could be breaking the law by carrying an ice cream cone in your pocket? These are the weirdest laws in each state, most of which courts (thankfully!) no longer enforce.

Weirdest Laws in Each State That’ll Make You Chuckle

17 Life Hacks That Are Harder Than the Non-Hack

Life hacks are supposed to make your life easier, and sometimes they really do. However, the internet is rife with hacks that aren’t actually effective.

17 Life Hacks That Are Harder Than the Non-Hack

Think You Belong in a Different Decade?

From big bands to big hair, our playful Decade DNA Quiz reveals which classic American era fits you best. It’s fast, fun, and full of vintage flair. Oh, and it’s free.

Meet Your Match. Discover Your Decade DNA. (Your Vintage Roots Are Showing)

Some home décor choices bring back warm memories. Others just make people wonder why you still have fake ivy on top of your kitchen cabinets.

The line between retro and outdated is thinner than most folks think.

These are old-school decor trends that make Florida homes scream “update me!”

Matching Bathroom Sets

Remember when every bathroom had a coordinated set?

The fuzzy toilet lid cover, rug that wrapped around the base, fabric shower curtain with matching hooks, and maybe even a toothbrush holder that looked like part of the same set.

It once felt polished and tidy. But now, those sets feel like something out of a discount store from twenty years ago.

They can also hold onto moisture, trap germs, and make cleaning harder. Plus, most modern bathroom styles focus on clean lines, light colors, and minimal clutter.

Swapping these sets for a simple bathmat and neutral towels instantly makes a bathroom feel calmer and more current.

Tuscan-Inspired Everything

Rich reds, golden yellows, and heavy wood accents once filled kitchens across America. Inspired by Italian countryside villas, the Tuscan trend brought in faux stone, scrollwork iron, and textured walls.

But in today’s design world, all that heavy color and ornate detail can feel overwhelming. What used to seem warm and rustic now feels dark and out of touch.

Modern kitchens lean toward light, airy, and functional.

Neutral tones, natural wood, and soft metals have taken the place of all that faux drama. Lightening the color palette and removing dated finishes can instantly make the space feel fresh.

Popcorn Ceilings

Popcorn ceilings were once seen as a smart solution.

Builders used them to hide imperfections, reduce noise, and finish ceilings faster. They were everywhere from the 1950s through the early ’90s.

But today, they make a room look instantly dated.

The bumpy texture collects dust, casts strange shadows, and makes even tall ceilings feel lower. They’re hard to paint and even harder to clean.

Modern ceilings are smooth, bright, and simple. Removing popcorn texture is messy, but it can dramatically change the feel of your home.

Fake Plants on Top of Cabinets

In the ’90s and early 2000s, lining the tops of your kitchen cabinets with fake greenery was the thing to do. Whether it was trailing ivy, plastic ferns, or silk flowers, people loved the way it softened cabinet edges.

But these days, that look screams “old catalog.”

Those faux plants don’t just date your room. They also collect grease and dust over time.

And when they sit untouched for years, they tell everyone that your kitchen hasn’t been updated in a while.

Swapping them out for open space or minimal décor makes your kitchen feel cleaner and more up-to-date. If you still love greenery, real plants on counters or windowsills are a fresher choice.

Wall Decals with Quotes

There was a time when vinyl decals with quotes were all the rage. They were easy to apply, inexpensive, and made people feel like their walls had personality.

Phrases like “Bless this mess,” “Gather,” and “Family is everything” showed up in living rooms, kitchens, and bathrooms across America.

But now, those once-sweet sayings can make a home feel like a dated home goods aisle. They’ve become so common that they’ve lost their charm.

Personal photos, unique artwork, or even blank space on a wall can say more than any generic quote ever could.

Glass Block Walls

Glass blocks had their moment in the ’80s and ’90s. People loved how they let in light while still offering privacy.

They popped up in bathrooms, entryways, and even some kitchens.

But today, they feel bulky and out of place. The thick grid of blocks interrupts clean lines and can make a space look heavy and stuck in the past.

Homeowners now favor clear windows, frosted panels, or sleek partitions to divide space while keeping things open. Replacing glass blocks with simpler materials can instantly modernize a room.

Over-The-Top Window Treatments

Once upon a time, layering was everything. You’d see windows covered in heavy curtains, swags, tassels, and valances that matched the couch cushions.

Now, all those layers can make a room feel weighed down and dark. They block natural light and collect dust.

Today’s window styles are all about simplicity.

Clean panels, Roman shades, or wooden blinds let the sunshine in and give a room breathing space. Removing the extra frills can make windows feel bigger and the whole house feel fresher.

Mirrored Closet Doors

Mirrored sliding doors were everywhere in the ’80s and ’90s. They made bedrooms look bigger and served a double purpose.

But now, they mostly just reflect the past. These large, shiny panels can make a space feel cold and dated. They’re also prone to chips, fogging, and getting off their track.

Replacing them with wood or panel doors gives the room a softer, more updated look.

You can still hang a mirror elsewhere if you need one… just not across an entire wall.

Beige Overload

For years, beige was the safe choice. Walls, carpets, furniture—everything came in some version of cream, tan, or taupe.

But when everything is beige, a home can feel lifeless. There’s no contrast, no personality, and no charm.

Modern homes still use neutrals, but they mix them with texture and contrast.

Think soft grays, natural wood, or crisp white with pops of color. Breaking up the beige can make your space feel brighter without being too bold.

Faux Finish Paint

Sponging, rag-rolling, and crackle paint were huge trends back in the day. People used them to add texture or mimic old-world charm.

But now, these finishes feel more like a dated craft project than a design choice.

Most homeowners today prefer smooth, solid walls in muted colors.

A fresh coat of paint in a modern tone can do more to update a space than any layered finish ever could.

Overly Themed Rooms

At one time, people loved turning rooms into mini experiences. Beach-themed bathrooms, Paris-inspired bedrooms, or cowboy kitchens showed up all across America.

While fun at first, these themes rarely age well. The matching prints, signs, and knickknacks start to look more like a gift shop than a home.

Modern style leans toward subtlety.

A nod to the coast with soft blues or a rustic touch with natural wood feels more timeless. Going overboard with a single theme can make your space feel more like a movie set than a place to relax.

Overstuffed Furniture

Big, bulky recliners and deep, puffy couches were once the peak of comfort. The more padding, the better.

But today, these pieces can make a room feel crowded and out of date. They’re hard to arrange, hard to move, and often dominate a space without adding much style.

Slimmer furniture with clean lines doesn’t mean giving up comfort.

It just helps a room feel more open, modern, and balanced. Swapping out oversized sofas for something sleeker can change the whole feel of a space.

Heavy Dark Wood Cabinets

Cherry, mahogany, and espresso cabinets were once a sign of a high-end kitchen. The deeper the color, the richer the look.

But now, all that dark wood can make a kitchen feel small and closed in. It also shows wear faster, especially around handles and edges.

Lighter wood tones, soft painted finishes, or even two-tone designs have taken their place.

Painting or refacing cabinets is often more affordable than a full remodel, and it can instantly brighten your space.

Decorative Columns

Once used to add “elegance” to entryways or dining rooms, decorative columns were a favorite in big homes built in the ’90s and early 2000s.

But most of the time, they weren’t structural. They were just in the way.

Today’s homebuyers often see them as unnecessary clutter. Open floor plans, clear lines, and unobstructed views are more appealing than fake pillars trying to dress up a space.

Removing these extras can make a home feel bigger and more up-to-date.

Granite Countertops with Busy Patterns

There was a time when swirling, multicolored granite was the dream. The more movement and sparkle, the better.

But tastes have changed. Those busy patterns now feel dated, especially in homes that haven’t updated anything else.

Simple quartz, butcher block, or even concrete counters have become more popular.

They’re easier to match with modern backsplashes and paint colors, and they make the space feel calm instead of chaotic.

The Home Décor Habits That Reveal Your Decade DNA

Do you still love your cherry cabinets and popcorn ceiling? Or have you secretly held onto that sponge-painted accent wall?

Take our Decade DNA Quiz to find out which generation your personality belongs to. From ’40s charm to ’80s boldness, your decorating habits might be more nostalgic than you think.

Meet Your Match. Discover Your Decade DNA. (Your Vintage Roots Are Showing)

17 Decor Items That’ll Make Your Home Look Cheap

No one wants to hear their home looks cheap. But sometimes, a cheap-looking home doesn’t reflect what you spent on it. It reflects the decor you chose.

17 Decor Items That’ll Make Your Home Look Cheap

25 Discontinued Foods That Americans Miss Seeing on the Shelf

Every once in a while, big-name brands pull products with huge followings off the shelf, saddening Americans across the country. These are the foods Americans want back the most.

25 Discontinued Foods That Americans Miss Seeing on the Shelf

Australia’s culinary customs are as foreign to Americans as Christmas in the summer. That’s too bad since it means those of us residing in the U.S. miss out on unique delights like Fairy Bread and Freddo Frogs.

From sweet to savory and umami, this list is full of Australian foods we wish we could find in Colorado.

1: Anzac Biscuits

ANZAC is an acronym for the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps. The sweet, buttery cookies known as Anzac Biscuits probably got their name because they were often made and sold at war fundraisers.

Still popular today, you can find them in nearly every Australian supermarket and convenience store. 

2: Aeroplane Jelly

Aeroplane Jelly is an Australian favorite, similar to American Jell-O.

The flavors are a little different, though, and include favorites like Port Wine and Blue Heaven, which tastes like raspberry and vanilla. 

3: Damper

Damper is a traditional Australian bread made from simple ingredients. It’s often cooked under coals or using a camp stove.

Like other soda bread, it doesn’t require yeast or a lengthy rise time. 

4: Tim Tams

If you’re heading to Australia, you have to try their Tim Tams.

The beloved chocolate-malt biscuits (that’s a cookie in American English) are perfect alongside a glass of milk or hot chocolate. 

5: Vegemite

Vegemite is a bit of an acquired taste, but many Americans find they love it.

The yeasty, umami-filled condiment is a great toast topper, especially alongside a generous spread of butter. 

6: Fairy Bread

Children’s parties in Australia aren’t complete without Fairy Bread, and American kids should be jealous.

This simple treat is made from sliced white bread smothered in butter and then covered in thousands of brightly colored sprinkles.  

7: Weet-Bix

Weet-Bix and the smaller-sized WeetABix are classic Aussie cereals.

Made from whole wheat, some Australians swear by dousing them in boiling water before adding milk, creating a breakfast mash. Others prefer to keep them crunchy by adding only ice-cold milk. 

8: Lamingtons

Decadent, chocolate-covered Lamingtons are a favorite in Australia for good reasons.

Americans are missing out on these tasty and distinctive cake bites, which are typically rolled in coconut flakes and often feature a sweet jam center. 

9: John Dory Fillets

A John Dory is a type of fish native to Australian waters.

It’s known for its delicate texture and almost sweet flavor, which lends itself perfectly to poaching, pan frying, and baking. 

10: Iced Vovo

Iced Vovos look something like American Pop-Tarts, but these cookies don’t have a filling.

Instead, they feature a decadent topping of pink fondant, sweet raspberry jam, and flaked coconut.  

11: Dagwood Dogs

If you enjoy a corn dog now and then, you’ll love the Australian version. Aussies call their battered and deep-fried dogs Dagwood Dogs or Dippy Dogs, depending on where you are.

They like to serve them with tomato sauce, which is just ketchup by another name. 

12: Bowen Mangoes

Americans only have access to a limited variety of mango types, and Bowen isn’t typically one of them.

That’s a shame because Bowen Mangoes are incredible. Common in Australia, these fruits are sweet, slightly spicy, and delightfully juicy. 

13: Cherry Ripes

Cadbury Australia makes Cherry Ripe using dark chocolate, sweet cherries, and coconut.

Cherry Ripe is one of Australia’s oldest chocolate bars, and it remains a favorite. 

14: Chiko Roll

It’s thought that “Chiko Roll” is short for chicken roll, but there isn’t any chicken in this beloved Australian snack.

Similar to a spring roll, these crispy rolls include cabbage, carrots, barley, and beef. 

15: Vanilla Slice

Vanilla slice is a dessert that should be common in the U.S. but isn’t.

Sweet custard sandwiched by flaky puff pastry is so simple yet decadent that it deserves to be served around the world. 

16: Barramundi

Native to Australia and Indo-Pacific waters, Barramundi fish are silky, buttery, and delicious.

Australians love this fish so much they have a National Barramundi Day. It’s October 20th, if you want to celebrate. 

17: Seafood Sticks

Aussies often enjoy imitation crab sticks as “seafood sticks” at their local fish and chips shop.

In this form, the imitation crab is battered, fried, and coated in chicken salt, then served alongside a hefty helping of fried potatoes. 

18: Fantales

If you can find a bag of Fantales, you’re in luck.

These Aussie favorites were sadly discontinued in 2023, but before they left shelves, the sweet, chocolate-caramel candies were well worth their tooth-testing stickiness. 

19: Golden Gaytime

On a hot day, nothing beats a Golden Gaytime.

These popular frozen treats feature creamy vanilla ice cream coated in toffee and chocolate, rolled in sweet biscuit crumbs. 

20: Freddo Frogs and Caramello Koalas

Cadbury makes chocolates for American audiences, too, but not like what they create in Australia.

Americans don’t have easy access to the delightfully sweet Freddo Frogs and Caramello Koala, which are common in Aussie land. 

21: Pods

Why Pods aren’t available in the U.S. remains a mystery.

These candies feature a chocolate shell surrounding a liquified form of candy-bar favorites like Snickers and Mars Bars. 

22: Twisties And Cheezles

Americans have Cheetos, but they don’t have Twisties and Cheezles, which are arguably better if you like intense cheese flavors.

These crispy snack-time favorites are also available in a variety of unique flavors like “Cheezy BBQ.” 

23: Milo

Milo is a chocolate-flavored malt powder that Australians like to add to milk or hot water.

It’s sort of like hot chocolate but richer, thanks to the yummy malt flavor. 

24: Bubble O’Bill 

Bubble O’Bills were available in the U.S. in the 1980s, but American kids didn’t take to them the way Australian kids did. That’s too bad because these ice cream treats are as fun as they are delicious.

They feature “Buffalo Bill” in ice cream form with a giant gumball for a nose. 

25 Australian Terms That Utterly Confuse Americans

Whether your Aussie friend is coming to visit, you’re planning a trip to Sydney, or thinking of relocating to the Land Down Under, you might want to keep this list handy. These 25 words and phrases are common with Aussies, but Americans find them baffling. 

What a Cracker! 25 Australian Terms That Confuse Americans

24 Foods Americans and Brits Totally Clash On

In this culinary clash, we examine 12 distinctly British and 12 entirely American foods that fall short across the pond. How many of these gross British foods have you tried?

24 Foods Americans and Brits Totally Clash On

Think You Belong in a Different Decade?

From big bands to big hair, our playful Decade DNA Quiz reveals which classic American era fits you best. It’s fast, fun, and full of vintage flair. Oh, and it’s free.

Meet Your Match. Discover Your Decade DNA. (Your Vintage Roots Are Showing)