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25 Creepiest Hiding Spots for Elf on a Shelf

Let’s take a second to talk about Elf on a Shelf. The idea is supposed to be cute; a troupe of elves that are sent out in December to watch kiddos to see who is being nice and who’s naughty. Then, they report back to Santa! Well, having an inanimate object come to life and watch kids is creepy no matter how you put it.

It’s like that one song, “I always feel like somebody’s watchin’ me!” except even worse because this is a doll. Kind of like if that song and Child’s Play came together. That being said, some locations certainly top the charts for “creepy.” No one likes to be surprised by an elf popping out of nowhere, but it happens. If you want to scare your kiddos (or spouse), these spots would be perfectly ideal. Or you could do the opposite and avoid these locations – whatever floats your boat.  

In a Family Portrait

In a Family Portrait

Placing a photo cutout of the elf in the frame with your family creates the impression that the elf has been watching your house for much longer than you've owned it. It knows about the time your children decided to draw on the walls in permanent marker five years ago ...

 

In a Box of Tissues

In a Box of Tissues

The elf is commonly on display right in the midst of cold and flu season. Imagine reaching for a tissue, only to pull on a hidden elf’s head. You would definitely check the next time before blowing your nose. You might even stop the practice altogether. 

In Bed

In Bed

If you want to scar your children, tuck the elf underneath their blanket. Sure, they won’t be able to sleep for a few days, but they also will listen the next time you give them instructions.

In the Refrigerator

In the Refrigerator

Does your child have a habit of snacking in between meals? If they open the refrigerator to see this creepy guy, they might think twice before sneaking some chocolate pudding before dinner.

In the Car

In the Car

If your child is in a rush for school and jumps into the car to find an elf strapped to the back of the seat, they will realize that the little menace has no boundaries. It can follow them throughout the day. This will give them loads to talk to their therapist about later in life.

On the Toilet

On the Toilet

The bathroom is the one place that leaves you most vulnerable. When you make your children think that they are being watched while answering nature’s call, you are taking away their sense of privacy and replacing it with sheer terror.

On the Bathroom Counter

On the Bathroom Counter

Anyone that puts their elf in the bathroom like this just turns their helpful little assistant into a terrifying mastermind that’s waiting for the right time to take the family out.

(Image via Imgur)

Actually, Anywhere in the Bathroom

Actually, Anywhere in the Bathroom

We’re just going to draw the line and say anywhere in the bathroom is creepy. Stepping out of the shower? BAM! Elf. Brushing your teeth? ELF! He’s everywhere, all at once.

(Image via Pinterest; Pinterest)

In an Open Door

In an Open Door

When you reach for a door handle and an elf falls at your feet, you start to reevaluate your belief in the concept of goodness. Also, you wake everyone up with your scream. I know because it happened to ... a friend.

Under a Cup

Under a Cup

The whole point of elf on a shelf is that it is out in the open. So when you hide it where you know that your child will find it accidentally, you are messing with the sanctity of the game. When you child goes for a glass of water and finds an elf, they will have a minor heart attack. 

In the Closet

In the Closet

It is natural for children to think that there are monsters in the closet, but they are usually wrong. Not this time. The elf sees you all the time ... even when you let your guard down to pick out clothes for the day.

In the Christmas Tree

In the Christmas Tree

The tree is supposed to be the ultimate symbol of holiday cheer. Once your child sees an elf watching them through the branches, they may start to seriously consider abandoning your family altogether to find one with less creepy traditions. 

In the Kitchen

In the Kitchen

A lot of people like to do cute little setups where the elf is cooking or something, and that can be a little adorable (although also creepy). However, the last thing you want is to go to make a smoothie and see an elf in the blender. Terrifying.

(Image via Pinterest; Pinterest)

Climbing the Wall

Climbing the Wall

Something about the elf climbing the wall sends shivers down our spine. It gives it more movement than anything else on the list, and honestly, we’re having flashbacks from Child’s Play.

(Image via Pinterest; Pinterest)

Starting a Fire

Starting a Fire

Sure, roasting marshmallows on an open fire can be adorable…unless it’s an elf.  Elves and fire don't mix, and it's super creepy. Plus, the last thing your children need is encouragement to try to light a candle so they can roast a marshmallow. We get it’s a fake candle, but still...

(Image via Pinterest)

In the Microwave

In the Microwave

Going to warm up some leftovers only to find the elf’s been spying on you all along through the microwave. It’ll probably prevent your child from making any food on own.

(Image via Pinterest)

In the Cupboard

In the Cupboard

Thirsty? Get a cup, unless the elf has claimed it for himself. At least your child may be too scared to get a drink of water in the middle of the night.

(Image via Pinterest)

At the Office

At the Office

This one is scary for your co-workers. When you’re messing about in the office, you don’t want to be watched. No one does, but there he is. Ever watchful. Always eyeing.

(Image via Reddit)

In the Dryer

In the Dryer

It’s hair-raising enough to think about the elf getting tossed around like some sort of terrifying torture chamber. It’s another if the elf actually goes through the dryer. Melted elf everywhere.

(Image via Pinterest; Pinterest)

In the Oven

In the Oven

Speaking of melted elf, don’t put him in the oven. This could happen, and then your kids will be forced to see their little buddy after he’s “passed.” Not sure Santa can fix this one.

(Image via Facebook)

Dressed Up Scary Elf Anywhere

Dressed Up Scary Elf Anywhere

Yeah, this isn't a location per-say, but it had to be included. Apparently, it’s become a thing to dress elves up as zombies or characters from scary movies. It could be fun to do to a spouse, but it could also make them pee a little. And kiddos? Yeah, they’re not sleeping.

(Image via Pinterest; Pinterest)

The Kids’ Room

The Kids’ Room

We get the elf is supposed to watch your children, but there has to be a line. Even a child needs a bit of privacy, and having the elf creeping around in their bedroom is a little much.

(Image via Pinterest)

In Lunch Bags

In Lunch Bags

Going to get a sandwich and suddenly, it’s coming up elves. Elves should remain away from food, actually. We don’t want to think about what he’s up to in there.

(Image via Pinterest; Pinterest)

On Light Fixtures

On Light Fixtures

It’s hard to remember elves in light fixtures. You could go to replace a light bulb in February to find a half-melted elf clinging to dear life.  

(Image via Pinterest)

In the Driveway

In the Driveway

The thought of the elf driving up can be cute, but also a little frightening depending on your child. Is it okay if the elf can follow them around no matter where they go? “I always feel like somebody’s watching me” to a whole new level.  

(Image via Pinterest)