How to Use Command Strips to Hang Almost Anything

It can be tough to personalize your home when you’re limited by the changes you can make (and the holes you can put in the walls). That’s why Command strips are such game-changers for renters and dorm residents — or really anyone who doesn’t want to damage their walls. The only DIY skills you need to hang Command strips are a little bit of patience and the ability to follow simple instructions.

These little adhesive-backed strips are handy around the house for everything from hanging up a couple of pieces of favorite art to creating an entire wall of rental-friendly faux board-and-batten. But if you’ve tried them before without luck, you might have made a mistake in installation or removal. Here’s how to hang Command strips the right way.

Read the Instructions

Raise your hand if you’re guilty of this: You buy a product that looks simple enough and jump right in before reading about the right way to use it. Whoops!

There’s actually a little bit more to these adhesive strips than you think, but 3M makes it easy for you: Look for the info on the package and follow the illustrated steps on the back in order to make them work.

Instructions vary slightly between adhesive strip types, so make sure to check the instructions before proceeding (even if you’ve used them before).

Use Them on Smooth Surfaces

For Command strips to stick properly, they need to be on a completely smooth surface. While it’s tempting to try them out on a brick wall, and you might get lucky one day, they really aren’t designed to work well on rough textures — the adhesive can’t get a firm grip.

Avoid using Command strips on things like popcorn ceilings, concrete, or wood. Similarly, if you plan to use them in a wet location, make sure you get the water-resistant version.

Make Sure You Prep the Surface

Most surfaces have some amount of dust or grime on them. In order to create a good bond for the adhesive strips, you need to start with a fresh and clean surface.

The best thing to do is wipe down the spot with some 70% isopropyl alcohol, or rubbing alcohol, on a paper towel. It takes only a second and makes a huge difference in the effectiveness of your Command strips.

Be Patient

If you recently painted your wall (within the past week), you need to wait at least seven days before you can hang anything. Rush into application and you could find yourself stripping paint off your newly refinished wall.

When you do use Command strips, make sure you press down on them for a full 30 seconds during installation to give them a chance to bond well with the surface.

Don’t Ignore the Weight Restrictions

Each Command product has a different weight and size restriction, so make sure you buy the right type for your project, and don’t overload them with something that’s too heavy or too big.

Large Command strips can handle a 24-inch to 36-inch object that weighs up to 16 pounds. The smaller hanging strips can only handle up to 4 pounds.

To Remove, Pull Down (Never Out!)

This is probably the number one thing people do wrong when using Command strips. When it comes time to remove them, don’t pull the tab out and away from the wall. You’ll risk damaging the wall.

It’s counterintuitive, but you should pull directly down toward the floor. If for some reason this doesn’t work, or the tab is missing, briefly apply some heat (a hair dryer works well) to loosen the adhesive, then work some dental floss down between the strip and the wall.

What to Hang with Command Strips

The variety of Command strips is extensive, with different types suited to vastly different purposes. Here’s what to use for the following applications.

Lightweight Picture Frames

Picture frames that are lightweight (up to 15 pounds) and up to 24 inches by 36 inches in size can be hung using Command strips picture-hanging strips. These work with a Velcro-like texture that locks each pair — one strip on the wall, one on the frame — together.

Take note: You’ll need multiple pairs to hang pictures safely.

Cables and Cords

To tidy unwieldy cords for your computer, TV, and more, use Command cord clips. You’ll need one clip every 6 inches or so, depending on how heavy your cable is.

Backpacks and Purses

For your entryway or mudroom, you’ll need a Command hook that’s fit for heavy-duty hanging. The XL Heavyweight wall hook is your best bet, but note that its max weight allowance is still 15 pounds.

Towel Bars, Toilet Paper Holders, and Other Bathroom Items

Bathrooms have more moisture than living rooms or bedrooms, so reach for a Command product made specifically for bathroom use.

You can find accessories like toilet paper holders and towel bars that can be installed directly on tile. That makes these a great fit not only for renters but also for anyone who’s looking to change up their bathroom without drilling into any tile.

There are even products suitable for installation in the shower, like this sleek shower caddy.

Wreaths

For hanging a wreath outside, reach for an outdoor-friendly Command hook, which will hold up against exposure to the elements. If you’re installing it on a window, you can use a clear outdoor hook. Mounting one on the front door? Try a terrace hook instead.

What You Shouldn’t Hang with Command Strips

Command strips can do a lot, but they’re not suitable for every task. Here are some items you should not hang using Command strips.

Mirrors

Small decorative mirrors can hang on 3- to 5-pound hooks, but anything heavier than that is destined to fall. You won’t just damage the wall — you’ll likely end up with shattered glass on your floor too.

Items Made from Rough or Soft Materials

A wooden sign could probably hang from a hook, but if you’re wanting to attach it to the wall with picture-hanging strips, you’re out of luck. The adhesive will work on the wall, but it won’t stick well to the art.

The same goes for fabric displays like flags, tapestries, and the like — unless they have a string that can be looped over a hook, they’re not going to stay up.

Irreplaceable Items

Don’t risk hanging something with Command strips that you could never replace if it fell and broke. While you’re unlikely to have anything fall if you follow instructions and use the appropriate product, the risk is never zero.

Further Reading

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