Safety 1st Magnetic Cabinet Locks Review

magnetic cabinet locks, key, screws

Baby proof the kitchen of most cabinets and drawers around the house using Safety 1st Magnetic Cabinet Locks.

These locks can be installed inside cabinets or drawers and are out of sight from guests and children. The locks are only unlocked by using a powerful magnetic key.

The magnetic key should be stored high up and out of reach from curious children.

Cabinets and drawers will be off limits to young children so you have peace of mind around the kitchen or bathroom.

Common questions or concerns new moms and parents have about Safety 1st Magnetic Cabinet Locks

Would these work on all types of cabinets?

The magnetic locks will not work on all types of cabinets. These will not work on inset cabinets.

Inset panels may not have enough flat surface and outer face panels may not have room to install locks.

inset and overlay cabinets

Overlay cabinetry have doors that lay over the top of cabinet’s face frame.  Inset cabinetry have doors that are set into the cabinet’s face frame.

How long does it take to install all 8 pieces of the magnetic locking system?

It may take up to 2 hours depending on the type of cabinets and drawers to be installed. Also, depends if you have the appropriate tools.

Can additional keys be ordered?

Yes, single Safety 1st keys can be purchased if necessary. If locks installed in different areas of the house it might be useful to have 2 keys.

 

Tip:   Having 2 keys can save time trying to find single key or if key gets lost. May want to place ribbon on key and hang where it can be easily accessible to an adult (but not a child).

Learn more about the Safety 1st Magnetic Locking System Key.

What tools are required to install these magnetic locks?

  • A hand drill or power drill.
  • A 7/64” drill bit.
  • Phillips head screwdriver.
  • Pencil

 

Do you have to drill holes on the outside of cabinets to use these?

No, drilling is done in the inside part of the cabinet or drawer.

Tip: May use blue painter’s tape around drill bit to leave about 3/16 of an inch space. Don’t use a lot of pressure and double check how deep to make hole, so you don’t drill through the cabinet or drawer.

3/16 ruler example

What parts does the Safety 1st Magnetic Cabinet Locks, 8 Locks + 1 Key come with?

The package comes with 1 magnetic key, 8 locks, 8 catches, 32 screws, and 8 installation templates.

items magnetic cabinet lock package

Don’t really want to drill holes on cabinets. Are there any alternatives?

The locks work the best, as intended by manufacturer, by drilling small holes on cabinets or drawers and using screws.

Using an adhesive will probably not keep the locks in place for long and you may have trouble making fine adjustments when installing locks.

Tip:     If renting and worried about making holes in cabinets you can always buy wood filler to seal small holes once locks are removed.

Note: Not recommended, but can try using heavy duty double sided tape. May try 3M heavy duty outdoor tape (or 3M automotive trim tape).

Potential problems:

  • Lock may not stay in place for long.
  • May have trouble correctly matching latch and catch during installation.
  • Can affect functionality or safety of unit.
safety 1st magnetic cabinet locks

How long are the screws? How thick of cabinet will the magnet work?

The screws included are ½ inch long. The magnetic locking system will work on hardwood up to 1.5 inches thick.

If child is not around the kitchen, what can I do to avoid unlocking and re-locking cabinets or drawers?

There is the option to disengage the locks by pushing a small “on/off” switch on the lock. Don’t forget to re-engage locking system.

What are the dimensions of the lock?

The lock is 1.625 inches (width) by 1.75 inches (length) by 1.25 (depth) in vertical position.

Are there instructions on how to install these magnetic locks?

Yes, you can use the following instructions: Safety 1st Magnetic Locking System Instructions.

Note: The installation templates are not too accurate.

Tip:     Use a pencil to mark the location of the catch and lock. Also, mark where screws will be placed.

locks install inside cabinet
locks unlock with magnetic key

Any installation tips?

  1.   Use your own measurements by using a pencil and mark placement of lock and catch.
  2.   Make sure to align both the lock and catch.
  3.   Before installing double check that all the locks work properly.
  4.   Put the catch first and measure where lock will go so that both are aligned.

Tip:   May want to put catch in the top corner or to the side.

Getting Started: How to Install Magnetic Cabinet Lock

Take ACTION and make sure to baby proof the kitchen and bathroom. Baby safety is your #1 priority.