7 Best Fire & Waterproof Safes For Cash and Documents: Reviews & Guide 2021
- Last Updated: January 15, 2021
- Matthew Wilson
We have researched all the top safes in the market so we can offer expert advice on which product provides the best security for your needs. Having the best fireproof safe for cash and important documents is a necessity. Purchasing a mediocre safe can place all of your valuables at risk for theft, water damage, or fire damage.
It might be a little difficult to determine what type of safe can best suit your needs, which is why we’re here to give you a full breakdown of features and pros and cons of each safe. After looking over our reviews and buyer’s guide, you will have all the information you need to make a conscious decision.
Contents
Best Overall
SentrySafe Fireproof and Waterproof Safe
- Steel construction
- Four live-locking bolts
- Fireproof
- Waterproof
- Pry-resistant hinge bar
Best Portable Fireproof Safe
SentrySafe Fireproof and Waterproof Box
- Tubular key lock
- Built-in straps option
- Fireproof
- Waterproof
- Interior light add-on option
Best Budget Fireproof Safe
AmazonBasics Fire Resistant Box
- Adjustable shelf
- Heavy-duty steel construction
- Fireproof
- Electronic keypad
- Back-up key for emergency access
Fireproof Safes for Cash Comparison
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1. SentrySafe Fireproof and Waterproof Safe
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2. SentrySafe Fireproof and Waterproof Box
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3. AmazonBasics Fire Resistant Box
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4. First Alert Waterproof 1 Hour Fire Safe
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5. First Alert Waterproof Fire Chest
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6. Honeywell 1 Hour Fire Safe Waterproof Safe Box
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7. Steelwater Fireproof Home and Document Safe
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|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Exterior Dimensions: | 16.3 x 19.3 x 17.8 in. | 15.4 x 14.3 x 6.6 inches | 14.2 x 13.8 x 19.7 in. | 16.5 x 14.5 x 19 in. | 12.75 x 16.13 x 8.5 inches | 7.34 x 19.9 x 17 inches | 20 7/8 x 17 1/8 x 17 5/16 in. |
| Capacity: | 1.23 Cubic Feet | 0.28 cubic feet | 2.1 Cubic Feet | 0.94 Cubic Foot | 0.39 cubic feet | 0.38 cubic feet | 1.44 Cubic Ft. |
| Weight: | 86 lbs. | 20 pounds | 15.75 Pounds | 82 pounds | 27 Pounds | 56 lbs | 143 lbs |
| Lock Type: | Dial Combination | Key lock | Electronic, Key | Combination Lock | Combination, Electronic, Key | Key lock | Combination, Electronic |
| Fireproof: | 1 Hour at 1700°F | up to 1/2 hour at 1550˚F | 20 min. at 1200˚F | up to 1 hour at 1700˚F | 30 min. at 1550˚F | up to 1 hour at 1700˚F | up to 2 hour at 1850°F |
| Waterproof: | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Warranty: | Limited 1 Year Warranty | Limited 1 Year Warranty | Limited 1 Year Warranty | 5 year manufacturer's warranty | N/A | 7-year limited warranty | 1 Year |
7 Best Fireproof Safes for Cash and Documents
Best Overall
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Our Rating
Highlighted Features Of The Product
- Steel construction
- Four live-locking bolts
- Fireproof
- Waterproof
- Pry-resistant hinge bar
- Secondary locking key on door
Overview
Make all of your important belongings last and remain in your possession with this safe. It is fireproof for up to an hour under 1700 degrees Fahrenheit. It is waterproof in 8 inches of water for 24 hours.
It fits great on a shelf in your closet, and it comes in several types of dial or digital keypad options. The dimensions of this safe on the outside are 16.3in W x 19.3in D x 17.8in H. The door needs 14.75in clearance to completely open.
The interior dimensions are 12.6in W x 11.9in D x 13.8in H. The large 1.23 cubic foot safe has a weight of 86 pounds. The majority of the customers who have purchased this safe appreciate that it has strong sturdy walls and it seems to be spacious inside.
This safe is a good purchase if you’re looking for the best fireproof waterproof home safe. Keep in mind that there’s a time limit, water, and fire limit to retrieving your belongings in the event of a disaster.
One customer has even reported that this safe survived a fire, which might make this product the best fireproof money safe you’ll buy. Others are concerned about how the lock and handle stops working after a while.
Pros
- Heavy duty
- Has lots of room
Cons
- Handle can freeze if you don't open safe over time
Best Portable Fireproof Safe
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Our Rating
Highlighted Features Of The Product
- Tubular key lock stops the lid from opening during a fire
- Built-in straps option for storing smaller important documents
- Interior light add-on option for boosted visibility
- UL Classfied safe can take 30 minutes of 1,550 degrees Fahrenheit fire
- Waterproof for up to 72 hours after being
Overview
This safe is a great place to store or hide your valuables in. It can fit your smaller items such as USBs and DVDs. The dimensions for the exterior are 15.4 in. W x 14.3 in. D x 6.6 in. H.
The interior dimensions are 12.8 in. W x 8.5 in. D x 4.4 in. H. It weighs 20.4 pounds. Feel secure with this safe as it has a tubular locking mechanism that keeps a safe from opening if a fire happens. The safe comes with 2 keys.
Customers who have purchased this product say it’s great for holding small items such as flash drives, DVDs, CDs, and small paper. They are not so happy about how easy the lid breaks and that it doesn’t hold a 8.5 x 11 paper.
Overall they feel it is a good size and quality for the price.
This safe is sturdy and convenient for holding your small items and keeping them protected from fire, water, and theft. Purchase this small waterproof money box today and conveniently hide your tiny valuables.
Pros
- Strong and sturdy
- Simple to use
- Great size for small valuables
Cons
- Handle and lid break easily
- A little too small for standard documents, might curl edges
Best Budget Fireproof Safe
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Our Rating
Highlighted Features Of The Product
- Adjustable shelf to get the most storage space
- Heavy-duty steel construction with 5 large bolts
- Fireproof for 20 minutes at up to 1200 degrees fahrenheit
- Electronic keypad
- Back-up key for emergency access
Overview
This safe is great for keeping your documents, digital media, and other valuables protected from fire and theft. It comes in 3 size options including .83 cubic feet, 1.24 cubic feet, and 2.1 cubic feet.
It is fireproof and it also has 5 big .75-inch bolts to provide ultimate security. It weighs 67 pounds.
Customers who purchased this safe are happy with using it. The safe has exceeded several expectations regarding quality for the price. They appreciate that you can reach the battery on the outside of the safe.
A couple of the concerns include the electronic keypad is a bit flimsy and the fireproofing is a little messy. Users have also wished it came with an additional shelf.
If you need a durable safe that is heavy duty and will keep small children out of it, this might be your best purchase. The safe is quite heavy and should deter thieves from trying to pick it up and removing it from your home.
The exterior battery compartment should be convenient when you get ready to change the batteries.
Pros
- Heavy duty and durable
- Easy to use snd program
Cons
- Isn't really theft proof
- Keypad and lock isn't the best quality
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Our Rating
Highlighted Features Of The Product
- Combination locking system
- Fire-resistant for 1 hour in up to 1700 degrees fahrenheit
- Pry-resistant even with a crowbar
- Waterproof safe will keep valuables dry even when submerged
Overview
This combination safe keeps valuables protected from water, fire, and theft. It has tons of room for electronics, files, and other valuables. This safe comes in two options including 1.31 cubic feet, or .94 cubic feet. It weighs 93.5 pounds.
Customers who own this safe feel that is great quality. It works perfectly for the valuables that most purchasers needed to put in safekeeping. A concern some of the concerns customers had was that the combination lock didn’t work properly.
This is the best small fireproof waterproof home safe you’ll find on the market. It keeps your documents dry during a flood and it will protect all of your items in the event of a fire. It is sturdy and durable, bringing you years of protection for your valuables.
Pros
- Waterproof
- Fire-resistant
- Pry-resistant
- Durable
Cons
- Locking system is not as durable as the rest of the safe
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Our Rating
Highlighted Features Of The Product
- Fire-resistant for 30 minutes up to 1,550 degrees fahrenheit
- Waterproof seal
- Programmable digital lock
- 2 Emergency override keys
- 4-8 digit digital lock
Overview
This digital safe will keep your valuables safe at all times. Keep them dry from floods and protected during fires. You can also rest easy knowing that thieves would have a hard time getting into this small fire safe cash box.
The dimensions are 12.8in L x 16.1in W x 8.5in H. It weighs 27.45 pounds.
Customers who have reviewed this product are saying it is easy to set up and use. Some customers are concerned that the safe isn’t really waterproof, the lock is weak, and the dimensions are based on the exterior measurements.
This safe is great for simple document holding. It works well as a fireproof and waterproof chest. Purchase this one today if you need a protective safe that you can fit in small spaces.
Pros
- Really easy setup
- Works good
Cons
- Folders can't lay flat
- Lock seems to break easily
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Our Rating
Highlighted Features Of The Product
- Adjustable shelf to get the most storage space
- Heavy-duty steel construction with 5 large bolts
- Fireproof for 20 minutes at up to 1200 degrees fahrenheit
- Electronic keypad
- Back-up key for emergency access
Overview
This is Honeywell safe is great for storing different size documents, CDs, DVDs, USB flash drives, and other valuables. It can be purchased with a handle installed or you can just use it as a cabinet. The outside dimensions are 7.3 in H x 20 in W x 17.2 in D. It weighs 54.3 pounds.
Customers who have purchased this chest are quite happy. They feel that it is spacious and works quite well. One customer even reported that the contents of the box survived a 2-day flood with 4-5 ft of water.
According to the fireproof safe reviews this chest appears to be an extremely durable product. A few users mentioned having trouble with the locking system.
If you’re looking for a chest to use to protect your documents or media valuables this is a great safe to buy. It is fireproof, waterproof, and strong.
Pros
- Waterproof
- Fireproof
- Durable
- Holds larger and small documents
Cons
- Locking system might not work well over time
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Our Rating
Highlighted Features Of The Product
- Reprogrammable electronic keypad
- 2 Hour fire rated at 1850 degrees Fahrenheit
- 2 Active locking bolts
- 2 Stationary locking bolts
- Pre-drilled anchor hole with 1/2 diameter
Overview
This safe has an electronic keypad that offers 4 changeable 4-16 digit codes. It has strong locking bolts on the hinge side with an adjustable or removable shelf. It also has an external battery compartment.
It will work great for any documents or belongings that you need to keep protected. The exterior dimensions are 20 7/8” x 17 1/8” x 17 5/16” It weighs 143 lbs.
Customers who bought this safe are happy that it is strong and simple to use. It opens and closes easily and the external battery compartment makes it really simple to quickly change the batteries.
At least one customer felt the locking mechanism was too simple to keep out a teenage thief.
If you’re looking for a sturdy safe that’s easy to use, this one might be your best fireproof document safe. The various keypad options makes this digital money safe a great choice for those who like to change passwords quite often.
It is strong enough to keep your kids and most thieves away from things you want to keep protected.
Pros
- Heavy duty
- Simple to use
Cons
- Doesn't seem to have a strong enough lock
Factors To Consider When Buying a Fireproof Safe For Cash
Size
There are several size options when you start hunting for a safe. You will need to determine what size you want before you shop. There are so many options you can get overwhelmed finding something you like and only considering the size in the end. Aim for about one-half size more than you need today. It’s easier to pay the money now for a big enough safe than to have to buy a whole new larger safe later on.
Valuables
You definitely want to think about what you plan to place in the safe. Your decision about what items you need to keep in there could potentially drive your other factors including a larger safe size to accommodate the legal size or other larger than standard size papers. You might also need a safe with a shelf to separate your items. If you’re only using it for cash or only for firearms that could change your choice completely as far as security needs.
Security
What type of security do you need or prefer? You will have to decide if you want a combination code with a key for emergency access, a simple key lock, or if you want high-tech biometric locking system.
Weight & Placement
When you consider purchasing your safe, think about how heavy it will be and where you plan to keep it. Placement is important because of the weight. If you want the safe installed on a shelf, then you probably need a light enough safe that can securely fit on a shelf, and that you can lift or get lifted onto a shelf.
If you want a really heavy safe, you might want to consider floor placement. Floor placement starts to matter if you are trying to purchase a really heavy safe and place it upstairs. Just make sure your upper floor can handle the weight load.
Budget
How much are you willing to spend? The higher the fire rating and the more secure the safe is the more it may cost you. Also, consider the price is involved in the size and weight of the safe. You can get a smaller safe to have a great fireproof rating, but it might not necessarily be the most theft-resistant. It all depends on what is more important to you.
Fireproof Safe FAQ
A determined thief with the right amount of time will probably find a way to get into your safe. A heavier safe might stall the thief from removing it from your home.
Locking mechanisms depend on preference as the inner lock is sturdy. Some customers have reported faulty key locks that were allowing others to get in with ballpoint pens. Combination locks with strong bolts are probably your most secure choice.
In some cases, yes, but you must be careful because drilling holes in a safe that doesn’t already have them may compromise the integrity of the waterproof seal or the fireproofing. You might want to check with the manufacturer if the safe doesn’t already come with holes and screws for bolting down.
If you need to constantly transport some valuable documents and you worry that something can damage them, you will need fireproof & waterproof document bags. Then your documents will remain safe and sound.
Making The Decision
If you are worried about the safety of your home and your family, you need to comply with all security and safety measures. We made the task easier for you, as we have reviewed those handgun safes, gun cases, cool pistol cases, best long gun cases, and even the best small safes for home.
Think of having to pack it back up and send it off because you made that wrong choice. It can be daunting, which is why we’ve provided you with various options for purchasing the best fireproof safe for cash available on the market.
Now that you’ve read small fireproof safe reviews, looked at product specs, and got our take on what’s important for your purchase, it’s up to you to go ahead and select the best safe to meet your needs.
