‘Tis the season to be jolly, but if you’re a parent, it’s also the season to be sneakily creative when it comes to hiding those precious Christmas gifts. After all, we all know the magic of Christmas is best preserved when presents are a delightful surprise on that special morning. If you’re like many parents who’ve had the “my kids found my hiding spots” experience, fear not! I’ve compiled a list of clever and unexpected hiding spots that will keep your little ones guessing and the magic alive.

Two of my children informed me last year that they have known my hiding spots for the last three years! This year I’ve had to get more creative.

The Attic or Basement

Let’s start with a classic hiding spot that sometimes gets overlooked. The attic or basement can be a fantastic place to store presents. Just be sure to use boxes or bins that disguise the contents as old or forgotten items. Your kids might never think to search in these dusty, less frequented spaces. Also, check for signs of mice beforehand – you don’t want your precious gifts being eaten before the big day!

Inside Furniture

Hidden compartments within furniture pieces can be your secret treasure trove. Consider placing gifts in a drawer at the back of a wardrobe, behind seldom-used clothes in a wardrobe, or within the hollow base of a bookshelf. Furniture hiding spots are not only unexpected but also add an extra layer of intrigue to the gift hunt.

The Garage

The garage is another goldmine for hiding Christmas presents. Place gifts inside storage bins, behind tools, or underneath tarps. If you have a workbench, the drawers could also be a handy spot to stash smaller items. Be sure to make use of clear containers for discretion. Again, check for signs of wildlife first and also consider plastic tubs if you are concerned about damp.

Under the Bed

While this may seem too obvious, you can take a creative approach by placing gifts in flat storage bins under your bed. To throw off any curious kids, use one of those bins for everyday items like shoes or linens and camouflage the gifts underneath.

The Laundry Room

The laundry room is an area typically associated with chores and mundane tasks, making it a great hiding spot for Christmas gifts. Conceal presents inside laundry baskets, under a pile of clean laundry, or tucked away in a seldom-used cabinet. These rooms tend to get quite warm, so be cautious with any edible gifts.

In Plain Sight

Sometimes the best way to hide something is in plain sight. Use gift bags or boxes, but label them as something uninteresting, like “Spare Towels” or “Cleaning Supplies.” Your kids are less likely to peek inside when they think they already know what’s there. This is a great option if you are short on storage space. Get a large black plastic box and label it with something that won’t draw attention, then simply pile all the gifts in there.

The Neighbour’s House

If you have particularly nosy children, consider asking a trusted neighbour or friend if they’d be willing to temporarily hide your gifts in their home. Your children would never suspect gifts being hidden off your property. Maybe you could really throw them off the scent by swapping gifts to hide.

The Fridge or Freezer

For smaller items that can handle the cold, consider placing them in the fridge or freezer. Just make sure they’re well-wrapped to prevent frost or food odors from affecting them.

Beneath the Stairs

If your home has a closet or storage space beneath the stairs, this is an often-overlooked place to hide presents. Store them in a box or bin, and your children may never think to check.

DIY Diversion

Lastly, consider creating a diversion with a fake treasure map or series of clues that lead your kids on a wild goose chase. Place the real gifts at the end of the quest, making it an exciting adventure for the whole family.

Final Thoughts

In the eternal battle of wits between parents and children, finding the perfect hiding spot for Christmas gifts can be an enjoyable challenge. These creative hiding spots will not only keep your kids guessing but also add an extra layer of excitement to the holiday season. The most important thing is to maintain the spirit of surprise and preserve the magic of Christmas morning for your children. Happy hiding, and may your holiday season be filled with joy and wonder!

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