Updated November 2026
Cabinet locks with keys give parents a dependable way to keep toddlers out of cleaning supplies, medicines and sharp kitchen tools without relying on a child remembering a sequence of steps. This list focuses on keyed cabinet locks, keyed hasps and keyed refrigerator-style locks, and it weighs each one on four criteria: how the lock mounts, how many keys come in the box and whether they are keyed alike, how well the locking mechanism holds up to repeated pulls, and how well the product fits common cabinet and drawer styles. The picks below are based on manufacturer specifications, brand reputation and common owner feedback patterns, not on hands-on testing.
Our top picks at a glance
- 1
TOP CHOICEBest overallAST Keyed Cabinet Lock, 2 Locks 4 Keys, Key AlikeView on Amazon - 2
TOP CHOICEBest for families with multiple cabinetsBaby Proof Cabinet Locks Refrigerator Locks with Keys 4 PackView on Amazon - 3
TOP CHOICEBest for drawers and file cabinetsBates Cabinet Locks with Keys, 3 PackView on Amazon - 4
Best for refrigeratorsChild-Proof Refrigerator Lock for Kids & AdultsView on Amazon - 5
Best for sliding and bifold doorsU Shaped Adjustable Cupboard Locks, 4 PackView on Amazon - 6
Best budget pick2 Packs Keyed Hasp Locks, Stainless SteelView on Amazon
Our Top Picks
| Product | Best for | Key feature |
|---|---|---|
| AST Keyed Cabinet Lock, 2 Locks 4 Keys, Key Alike | Kitchen and closet doors with knobs or handles | Adjustable matte black lock with a key-alike set |
| Baby Proof Cabinet Locks Refrigerator Locks with Keys 4 Pack | Households with many cabinets | Four-pack with keys for multi-room coverage |
| Bates Cabinet Locks with Keys, 3 Pack | Drawers and file cabinets | Cam lock design, keyed alike, silver finish |
| Child-Proof Refrigerator Lock for Kids & Adults | French door and side-by-side refrigerators | Lock designed for French door fridge handles |
| U Shaped Adjustable Cupboard Locks, 4 Pack | Sliding and bifold cabinet doors | U-shaped adjustable body fits multiple door thicknesses |
| 2 Packs Keyed Hasp Locks, Stainless Steel | Small doors, cabinets and storage bins | Stainless steel hasp with keys, 3-inch size |
AST Keyed Cabinet Lock, 2 Locks 4 Keys, Key Alike
Metal lock to lockout double knobs and handles of kitchen drawer storage cupboard closet, adjustable, matte black AST Keyed Cabinet Lock, 2 Locks 4 Keys, Key Alike, Childproof Drawer Latch
Best for: Kitchen and closet doors with double knobs or handles
This lock suits parents who want one lock design that works across several cabinets and drawers, and who want the convenience of a single key opening every lock in the house.
Key specs:
- Listed as a metal lock for double knobs and handles
- Adjustable to fit different handle configurations
- Matte black finish
- Two locks and four keys in the package
- Key-alike design
Pros:
- Key-alike set simplifies access for adults
- Adjustable body suits varied handle spacing
- Four keys included for spares
Cons:
- Handle-mounted designs can be less secure against determined pulling than full cam locks
- Fit depends on handle spacing, so measure first
Bottom line: A strong first choice for kitchen and closet doors with knobs or handles, especially for households that want one key for several locks.
Baby Proof Cabinet Locks Refrigerator Locks with Keys 4 Pack
Best for: Households with many cabinets
Parents who need to cover a full kitchen or bathroom with the same type of lock will appreciate a four-pack, since it covers most base cabinets without buying extra sets.
Key specs:
- Sold as a four-pack with keys
- Designed for cabinet and refrigerator use
- Keyed operation for adult access
Pros:
- Four locks cover most kitchen and bath cabinets
- Keys let adults open cabinets quickly
- Works on both cabinets and refrigerator handles
Cons:
- Owners report that some installations need careful alignment on thicker doors
- Keys should be stored carefully, since losing them locks adults out too
Bottom line: A practical choice for families who want to lock down many cabinets at once with a single consistent system.
Bates Cabinet Locks with Keys, 3 Pack
Bates- Cabinet Locks with Keys, 5/8" Long, 3 Pack, Cam Locks for Cabinets Keyed Alike, File Cabinet Lock with Key, Silver
Best for: Drawers and file cabinets
Cam locks are a common choice for drawers and file cabinets because they lock the drawer from the inside edge, which keeps small hands from easily releasing them.
Key specs:
- 5/8-inch long cam lock
- Three-pack
- Keyed alike
- Silver finish
Pros:
- Cam design is well suited to drawers and thin panels
- Keyed alike simplifies access
- Three locks cover several drawers
Cons:
- Requires a drilled hole of the correct size, which adds install effort
- Not designed for hasp or sliding-door applications
Bottom line: The best fit for parents who want to secure drawers and file cabinets rather than knob-style cabinet doors.
Child-Proof Refrigerator Lock for Kids & Adults
Child-Proof Refrigerator Lock for Kids & Adults – Lock for French Door Fridge and Cabinet (Regular, Black – 1 Pack)
Best for: French door and side-by-side refrigerators
Refrigerators with two handles that pull together are a common climbing and spill hazard for toddlers, and this lock is aimed at that specific setup.
Key specs:
- Designed for French door refrigerator handles
- Keyed operation
- Regular size, black, single pack
Pros:
- Targets a hazard many cabinet locks do not address
- Keyed design lets adults open the fridge without fuss
- Simple installation on most French door handles
Cons:
- Only one unit per pack, so multiple fridges need multiple purchases
- Fit varies by handle shape, so check dimensions first
Bottom line: Pick this if your fridge has French doors and you want a dedicated lock rather than a generic cabinet product.
U Shaped Adjustable Cupboard Locks, 4 Pack
U Shaped Adjustable Cupboard Locks Baby Proof Safety Lock for Closet Code Latches Knob Handle Drawers 4 Pack Cabinet Locks with Combination Sliding Cabinet Door Lock Child Proof
Best for: Sliding and bifold cabinet doors
Sliding and bifold doors are hard to secure with standard latches, and a U-shaped adjustable lock is designed to wrap around the door edge and handle.
Key specs:
- U-shaped adjustable body
- Four-pack
- Listed as suitable for closets, drawers and cabinets
Pros:
- Adjustable body fits a range of door thicknesses
- Four locks cover several doors
- Works on knobs, handles and sliding doors
Cons:
- Adjustment takes patience to get a firm hold
- Combination-style variants are not the same as keyed locks, so confirm the model you buy
Bottom line: A good match for households with sliding or bifold doors that other locks do not fit well.
2 Packs Keyed Hasp Locks, Stainless Steel
2 Packs Keyed Hasp Locks Twist Knob Keyed Locking Hasp for Small Doors, Cabinets and More,Stainless Steel Steel, Hasp Lock Catch Latch Safety Lock Door Lock with Keys (3inch, Bliack)
Best for: Small doors, cabinets and storage bins
A keyed hasp is a simple, visible lock that works well on small doors, toy boxes and storage bins that need a secure latch.
Key specs:
- Stainless steel construction
- Two-pack with keys
- 3-inch hasp size
Pros:
- Stainless steel resists rust in damp areas
- Keys included for adult access
- Good for doors and bins, not just cabinets
Cons:
- Hasps are visible, which some parents dislike for appearance
- Requires screw installation on both the door and frame
Bottom line: The most affordable option here, suited to parents who need a sturdy latch for small doors or bins.
Buying Guide
Mounting style
Cabinet locks mount in one of three ways: inside the cabinet, on the handle, or through a drilled hole. Knob and handle locks are the fastest to install but depend on handle shape. Cam locks need a drilled hole of the correct diameter, usually 5/8 inch for the common size. Measure your handle spacing and door thickness before buying.
Good picks for this: AST Keyed Cabinet Lock, Bates Cabinet Locks with Keys
Key count and key-alike design
Check how many keys come with the set and whether the locks are keyed alike. Key-alike sets let one key open every lock, which simplifies daily use. Keep at least one spare key stored somewhere adults can reach but children cannot.
Good picks for this: AST Keyed Cabinet Lock, Baby Proof Cabinet Locks Refrigerator Locks with Keys 4 Pack
Door and drawer type
Hinged cabinet doors, drawers, sliding doors and refrigerator handles each need a different lock. Drawers usually suit cam locks. Sliding doors often need a U-shaped or adjustable lock. Refrigerators with French doors need a dedicated handle lock.
Good picks for this: U Shaped Adjustable Cupboard Locks, Child-Proof Refrigerator Lock for Kids & Adults
Material and durability
Metal locks and stainless steel hasps generally hold up better than thin plastic under repeated pulling. Look for solid metal construction and a finish that resists rust if the lock will be used in a bathroom or near a sink.
Good picks for this: 2 Packs Keyed Hasp Locks, Bates Cabinet Locks with Keys
Installation difficulty
Adhesive-backed or no-drill designs are quicker, but many keyed locks require screws or a drilled hole. Plan for the extra time, and read the manufacturer’s install instructions before starting. If you are unsure about drilling into cabinetry, consider asking a handyman.
Good picks for this: Baby Proof Cabinet Locks Refrigerator Locks with Keys 4 Pack, 2 Packs Keyed Hasp Locks
Security against determined children
Toddlers can pull hard and repeatedly. Handle-mounted locks can loosen over time, so check screws periodically. A lock is only useful if it stays in place, so a quick monthly check is worthwhile.
Good picks for this: Bates Cabinet Locks with Keys, Child-Proof Refrigerator Lock for Kids & Adults
Appearance and visibility
Some keyed locks are visible on the cabinet face, while cam locks sit inside the door or drawer. If appearance matters in a kitchen you plan to keep for years, choose a finish and style that blends with your hardware.
Good picks for this: Bates Cabinet Locks with Keys, AST Keyed Cabinet Lock
FAQ
Are cabinet locks with keys safer than magnetic locks?
Keyed locks prevent access by children who lack the key, and they do not rely on a magnet being in the right place. Magnetic locks are easier for adults to use quickly, but they can be defeated by a child who learns the release motion. Choose based on how often adults need quick access.
How many keys should I buy?
Plan for at least two keys per household that needs access, and keep one spare somewhere secure. Key-alike sets reduce the number of keys adults need to carry.
Can I use cabinet locks on drawers?
Yes, cam locks are designed for drawers and file cabinets. Confirm the drilled hole size and drawer thickness before you buy.
Do keyed locks work on refrigerators?
Dedicated refrigerator locks exist for French door and side-by-side handles. Check the handle shape and dimensions, since not every model fits every refrigerator.
What if a key gets lost?
Store spare keys in a location adults can reach. If all keys are lost, the lock may need to be replaced or, in some cases, drilled out. Consider a locksmith if you cannot remove the lock yourself.
Do I need to replace locks as my child grows?
Most toddlers outgrow the urge to climb into cabinets by about age 3 to 4, but curiosity and strength vary. Keep locks in place until you are confident the cabinet is no longer a hazard.
Should I consult a professional for installation?
If your cabinets are older, veneered, or made of thin material, a handyman or contractor can help avoid damage. Installation questions about electrical or structural elements should go to a licensed professional.
Conclusion
For most kitchens, the AST Keyed Cabinet Lock is a sensible first choice because it adapts to knobs and handles and comes with a key-alike set. Families who need to cover many cabinets at once may prefer the four-pack option, while drawers and file cabinets suit cam locks. Refrigerator-specific and sliding-door locks solve problems that general cabinet locks often miss, and the stainless steel hasp is a practical budget pick for small doors and bins. Measure your hardware before buying, and check installed locks regularly.
Sources
- Safety guidance and recall information for household products and furniture tip-over and access hazards (cpsc.gov)
- Child safety recommendations and injury prevention guidance for young children (aap.org)
- Home safety resources on preventing poisonings and household injuries
Related reading
- Vmaisi Magnetic Cabinet Locks: 7 Best Options for Toddler-Proof Homes (2026)
- Types of Cabinet Locks: 7 Best Picks Compared for Toddler-Safe Homes
- Maisi Magnetic Cabinet Locks: 10 Best for Toddler-Proofing (2026)
- Kitchen Cabinet Locks for Adults: 5 Best Picks Compared (2026)
- Childproof Magnetic Cabinet Locks: 8 Best Options Compared (2026)
- Cabinet Locks for Toddlers: Types and Limits
