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Cabinet locks are often overlooked in home security. However, if you have a baby or small child running around, you will likely consider it necessary. Magnetic cabinet locks ensure child safety and the security of important and hazardous home items.
Magnetic cabinet locks utilize the power of magnets for both their locking and unlocking mechanisms. These locks usually have a flat plate that engages the lock and closes the cabinet door. And instead of the standard key, it uses a magnetic one.
The magnetic key is applied outside the cabinet door. The action will lower the magnet of the lock inside the door to trigger it to open.
Importance of Cabinet Locks
An open cabinet can be a threat to toddlers. When your little one learns to open doors, there may also be the risk of pinching those little fingers. Therefore, the usefulness of cabinet locks becomes undisputable in every home.
Keeping dangerous things under lock and key is also necessary for your peace of mind, even if you don’t have kids.
Magnetic cabinet door locks are essential in the following ways:
- Keep valuable possessions and important documents safe in case of break-ins
- Prevent children from accessing harmful products and dangerous items
- Keep small items and choking hazards away from babies
- Store medications and private items discreetly
- Conceal clutters when reorganizing
Why Choose Magnetic Cabinet Locks?
Cabinet locks come in many types, such as the deadbolt lock, cam lock for single cabinet, double door lock, or side mount lock. These traditional lock types are durable and trustworthy because they can be opened only with conventional keys. But, they will also need drilling to install them into cabinets.
A child lock can be adhesive straps, sliding locks, baby-proofing latches, or side-by-side latches. These multi-purpose locks can fit on cupboards, fridges, or any cabinet door and are designed especially for baby safety.
The thing is, most modern cabinets today are not suitable for fitting a plain and obvious lock. Visible knobs and latches can be an eyesore and ruin the aesthetic and seamless features of a modern home.
Magnetic cabinet locks pick up the slack with their efficient locking mechanism, discreet presence, and fuss-free installation. The locks are installed using an adhesive tape such as the 3M adhesive that glues powerfully into the surface.
How to Choose the Right Magnetic Cabinet Locks
With overwhelming options available, how do you pick the best magnetic cabinet lock that serves its intended purpose? Here is our take:
Pick Out Easy-to-Install Locks
Magnetic cabinet locks are fastened using a strong adhesive, often without the need for tools. Some models may come with a screw to reinforce the glue in case it fails. When choosing a magnetic lock, pick out locks with 3M adhesive tapes, and you will never go wrong.
The tricky part about magnetic cabinet lock installation is the alignment and calibration of the locking mechanism. Some cabinet locks require you to fit the latch, installation cradle, and lock.
It may help to read forums on certain magnetic lock brands to see how the installation steps went for other users.
Choose Functional Designs
The lock design is functional in keeping it discreet. Magnetic locks are often concealed and invisible from the outside. The ultra-thin designs are the best cabinet locks, but you should also consider the clearance inside the cabinet where you will fasten them.
Drawer locks work the same as cabinet locks but are installed differently. You can try locks like the Jambini magnetic cabinet locks, which have a tamper-proof and thin design. The lock is suitable for various cabinet and drawer styles.
Switch On and Off Feature
Magnetic cabinet locks with switch on and off features allow you to disable the lock when not in need. It is helpful if you want recurrent and easy access to cabinets or cupboards for the time being.
The on/off design lets you open and close the cabinet without needing the magnet key every time. Once you are done, you can simply flip back the button or lever to enable the safety locks again.
Mag-locks, such as those from Safety 1st, have indicators on the side of the lock to show whether the lock is properly engaged.
Efficient Performance
Magnetic locks that are nearly impossible for a baby to open are the best choice for a cabinet lock. This has a lot to do with the installation and the adhesive used.
When possible, the screw type is much more reliable than adhesives. The downside of screws is that they can ruin the cabinet, especially if you intend to temporarily keep the lock.
If you don’t want to drill into your cabinet, make sure to choose strong adhesive tape to reinforce the magnet. You can buy 3M tape separately if you need more during installation.
Compatible With the Surface
If you have particle board cabinets, adhesives may or may not bond with them as strongly as screws. Some brands of magnetic cabinet locks include specific screws that will work on these materials without damaging them. You can check its label and product features before buying.
Adhesives are compatible with almost all surfaces. But then again, ensure that it tapes well to the surface to not compromise its strength
Note: One problem with magnetic cabinet locks is that they will not work if they detect ferrous metal inside the cabinet. It will attract that metal, and the lock will not pop up if you unlock it.
To remedy this, test the lock before securing it with the adhesive. Keep it locked and move it around the inside of the door. If it does not pop up, it may have encountered a metal like an iron or screw. Move it away, and where the lock pops, it is the surface to fasten it.
Takeaway
If you want magnetic cabinet locks and related products, visit us at All Security Equipment. We are home to innovative and reliable home security devices, locks and keys for uncompromised safety. Check out our new baby proofing and security products to provide ideal child safety solutions without ruining your home’s appeal.
