How to lock a wine or drinks fridge

Three kinds of lock

Door key lock: a small barrel lock, usually on the door frame or hinge side, that physically stops the door opening. Common on glass-door drinks fridges and some wine coolers.

Control panel or child lock: a setting that stops the buttons responding, so the temperature cannot be changed. It does not lock the door. A padlock symbol on the display usually means it is on.

Add-on lock: an adhesive or strap appliance lock fitted to a fridge without a key lock. These range from simple child-proof latches to locks with a key or combination.

Using a built-in key lock

Close the door fully, insert the key and turn it. Test by pulling the door gently. Keep one key on a hook out of children's reach and a spare somewhere separate, as replacements can take time.

If the lock is stiff, avoid forcing it. A small amount of dry lubricant suited to locks may help; avoid oily sprays that attract dust. If the door will not close properly when locked, check the seal and that the fridge is level.

1. 1

   Close the door firmly.

2. 2

   Insert and turn the key.

3. 3

   Pull gently to check it holds.

4. 4

   Store the key out of reach and keep a spare.

Using a child lock on the controls

On many wine fridges, the child lock is turned on and off by holding one or two buttons for a few seconds. It stops accidental changes when children press buttons or when cleaning the panel. Check your manual for the exact combination.

A common confusion is a fridge that seems to ignore its buttons. That is often the child lock; see wine fridge not turning on for more on display modes.

Adding a lock to a fridge without one

Adhesive appliance locks stick to the cabinet and door and are released by a button, key or combination. Choose one rated for fridges, and fit it on clean, dry surfaces as instructed. Strap locks wrap around the side of the cabinet.

Whatever you choose, make sure it does not stop the door sealing, block vents or sit across the glass in a way that strains it. Avoid drilling into a fridge cabinet; cooling pipes often run inside the walls.

Note:Never drill into the sides, top or door of a fridge. Damaging the cooling pipes is usually not repairable.

Lost the key?

Contact the maker or retailer with the model number; many can supply a replacement key or lock barrel. Some keys have a number stamped on them, so note it when the fridge is new.

Do not force the door or prise the lock, which can bend the frame and break the seal. If you need to get inside urgently, a locksmith may help, but check whether the maker can supply a key first.

Choosing a fridge with a lock

If a lock matters, check the listing for a key lock rather than relying on photos. Ask how many keys are supplied and where the lock sits. Our freestanding wine fridges guide and drinks fridge guide include lockable models.

In a family home, a lock is one layer; store spirits and wine out of reach too.

Remember that a lockable door does not change how the fridge runs. The same rules on ventilation, room temperature and loading apply, and the door seal still needs to grip fully when the lock is turned. If you are buying for an office or shared house, a model with a bright interior light and a glass door also makes it easy to see stock levels without unlocking it each time.

See freestanding wine fridges →

Frequently asked questions

Does child lock on a wine fridge lock the door? No. It locks the control panel only.

Can I fit a lock to my wine fridge? Yes, with an adhesive or strap appliance lock. Do not drill the cabinet.

Are fridge locks secure? They deter casual access, not determined theft. Treat them as a child and housemate deterrent.

Where is the lock on a drinks fridge? Usually low down on the door frame on the hinge or handle side.