Book Safe vs Traditional Safe: Which is better for your home?
When it comes to storing valuables at home, most people think of one thing: a traditional safe. But safes aren’t the only option, and for many homes, they’re not even the best one.
Book safes offer a clever, discreet, and personality-filled alternative for storing important documents, jewellery, keepsakes, and small valuables. So how do they stack up against a classic lockbox or metal safe?
In this guide, we’ll break down book safe vs traditional safe, the pros and cons of each, and which option makes the most sense for your lifestyle.
What is a traditional safe?
A traditional safe is typically a metal lockbox or cabinet designed to protect valuables from theft, fire, or damage.
They can be:
· Floor safes bolted into the ground
· Wall safes hidden behind art or furniture
· Portable lockboxes or cash boxes
They usually include a key lock, digital keypad, or biometric lock and are often marketed for high-security storage.
What is a book safe?
A book safe is a real book that has been hollowed out to create a hidden compartment inside. From the outside, it looks like a normal book on your shelf.
Inside, it can store:
· Passports and important documents
· Jewellery and watches
· Cash and spare cards
· Sentimental keepsakes
At Vox & Dolly, each book safe is handmade and upcycled from real books in my Inner West Sydney studio.
From vintage classics to children’s books and modern titles, every piece is one of a kind and designed to blend seamlessly into your home.
Book safe vs traditional safe: Key differences
1. Security level
Traditional safe: Traditional safes are designed for maximum security. Heavy-duty materials, locks, and bolting options make them difficult to break into. They’re ideal for high-value items or large amounts of cash.
Book safe: Book safes rely on discretion rather than force. They’re designed to hide valuables in plain sight, making them less likely to be discovered in the first place. For everyday documents and keepsakes, this level of concealment is often more than enough.
2. Visibility and discretion
Traditional safe: Even when hidden, safes can draw attention. A locked box or bolted cabinet signals that something valuable is inside.
Book safe: A book on a shelf looks ordinary. It doesn’t attract attention and blends in with your décor. Many people forget it’s even there – which is exactly the point.
3. Aesthetic and home style
Traditional safe: Safes are functional, but rarely beautiful. They’re often hidden away in cupboards, wardrobes, or garages.
Book safe: Book safes double as décor. Whether you love vintage literature, modern covers, or illustrated children’s books, a book safe adds character to your shelves while serving a purpose.
4. Ease of access
Traditional safe: Safes require keys, codes, or fingerprints. That’s great for security, but it can be inconvenient when you need quick access.
Book safe: Simply pull the book from the shelf and open it. No codes, no keys, no fuss.
5. Cost
Traditional safe: Safes can be expensive, especially fireproof or large models. Installation can also add to the cost.
Book safe: Book safes are a budget-friendly option, with pieces starting from around $20. They offer a clever storage solution without the investment of a full safe.
6. Installation and flexibility
Traditional safe: Some safes need to be bolted down or built into walls or floors, which isn’t ideal for renters or apartments.
Book safe: No installation required. Just place it on a shelf, bedside table, or coffee table. Perfect for renters and small spaces.
When a traditional safe makes sense
A traditional safe is the right choice if you:
· Store high-value jewellery or large sums of cash
· Need fireproof or waterproof protection
· Want maximum physical security
· Own your home and can install a bolted safe
Safes are built for protection against theft and damage, making them ideal for high-risk or high-value storage.
When a book safe is the better option
A book safe is perfect if you:
· Want discreet storage for passports and documents
· Prefer something that blends into your décor
· If you rent or live in an apartment
· Love quirky, personality-filled home pieces
· Want a sustainable, handmade storage solution
For many everyday households, the biggest risk isn’t theft – it’s misplacing important documents. A book safe gives you a dedicated, memorable place to store them.
A sustainable storage choice
Unlike mass-produced safes, book safes are often made by upcycling existing books. At Vox & Dolly, every book safe is handmade from real books that might otherwise be discarded, giving them a second life as functional home décor.
Choosing an upcycled book safe is a small but meaningful way to support sustainability, handmade craftsmanship, and thoughtful design.
Book safes as gifts
Book safes make unique, practical gifts for:
· New homeowners
· Travellers
· Book lovers
· Graduations and milestones
· Anyone who appreciates clever design
Each Vox & Dolly book safe is gift wrapped and can include a personalised message, making it easy to send straight to someone special.
How to choose between a book safe and a traditional safe
Ask yourself:
· What am I storing?
· How much security do I need?
· Do I want it hidden or locked?
· Does style matter to me?
· Am I renting or owning?
For high-value items, a traditional safe may be best. For everyday valuables, documents, and keepsakes, a book safe is often the smarter, more enjoyable option.
View the book safe range
If you love the idea of hidden storage that looks like a book, explore the full range of handmade, upcycled book safes at Vox & Dolly. Each piece is one of a kind and made with care in my Inner West Sydney studio.
Whether you prefer vintage classics, modern titles, or illustrated covers, there’s a book safe to suit your style and storage needs.