I’ve written a few different posts about Command strips, hooks, and other products over the past few years. None of these posts were sponsored–I just really like these products! I use them all over my home and studio to hang things up. I’ve also used Command strips and hooks to decorate for parties and events, since I can easily remove them once the party is over. I appreciate the quick and easy “installation” process, and the vast majority of the time Command products work just like they should.
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However, every once in a while things just don’t go as planned. I’ve had Command strips that just won’t stay stuck, and I’ve had strips that just wouldn’t budge when I tried to remove them from the wall. But through a lot of trial-and-error, I’ve picked up a few tips and tricks that have helped me learn to avoid some of the common “user error” issues. I thought I’d share a few of my best Command strip tips with you today, in hopes that you can benefit from them as well. So give this list a read-through, and you’ll be a Command strips pro in no time! :-)
Tips & Tricks For Using Command Strips
Mind The Weight
Make sure the strips you choose can hold the weight of what you’re planning on hanging up. Every package of Command strips or hooks says how much weight they can hold right on the front.
Check The Temperature
You should only apply Command strips when the temperature is above 15°F. (This obviously isn’t as much of a concern when you’re applying them indoors, but it could make a difference for anyone hanging them up outside during the winter.) The strips should stay stuck pretty much anywhere as long as the temperature is above -20°F and below 125°F.
How Humid Is It?
Unfortunately, adhesive products like Command strips just don’t work as well in hot, humid locations (around 80% humidity or more). If you live in a very humid area and want to hang Command strips in your house, you might be able to make it work if you have a dehumidifier.
Surface Issues
Make sure you are using the right kind of strip for the surface and location you want to apply it on. The regular Command strips work well in most indoor locations, while the clear strips work best on very smooth surfaces. If you’re planning to hang something outside or in your bathroom, be sure to get the strips rated for outdoor use or bathroom use.
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If you need to hang Command strips on brick for any reason, I’ve found that a dab of hot glue works wonders! :-)
And finally, if you have freshly painted walls, you should wait at least 7 days before hanging Command strips. (Even then, you may have trouble getting Command strips to stick to certain kinds of paint.)
Applying Command Strips
Before you apply your Command strips to any surface, it’s important to make sure the surface is as clean as possible. Any dust, dirt, or residue can make it hard for the adhesive to form a strong bond. I recommend cleaning the area with a Magic Eraser, because it’s quick and easy, and will thoroughly clean most surfaces. After using the Magic Eraser, wipe the area with rubbing alcohol to leave it squeaky clean.
Next, apply the strips according to the directions on the packaging. If the directions indicate you should wait a certain amount of time before hanging your item, then wait! :-) A lot of potential problems can be avoided by waiting the proper amount of time.
Removing Command Strips
The key to gently removing Command strips is to pull down, not out. Pulling out may damage the surface, especially if it’s painted. While you’re pulling down on the tab, you should also hold the rest of the strip with your other hand. (This will help prevent any hand injuries from occurring when the strip suddenly releases from the wall.)
But what if you accidentally ripped off the removal tab? No worries, just grab your hair dryer and a piece of dental floss! Blow your hair dryer on the strip for 20-30 seconds, then wiggle the dental floss between the adhesive part of the strip and the surface it’s stuck to. You should be able to “cut” through the rest of the adhesive with the floss and remove the strip successfully.
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Do you have any tips and tricks for using Command strips, hooks, and other products? Tell us all about it by leaving a comment below! :-)
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I put command strips on my door to hang a blanket so my dog can’t look out. 3 of them stick no problem not the same spot falls no matter what swap or cleaning I do. I’m at a loss why 3 stick and the 4th won’t. It’s a small blanket, probably a pound and the command strips I’m using are for 3 pounds. Any ideas?
I’m having the same issue. Hung five sets of curtains and one of the hooks just won’t hold. It’s making me crazy!
Jillee – Can you elaborate more on the brick option? Do you forego the sticky strip and just apply hot glue to the flat back part of the command hook? And then how do you get the hook / glue off the brick?
Thanks!
Hi Sasha, as long as your item is not really heavy, the best thing to do is put a big blob as opposed to smearing the hot glue. When you want to remove it, use a flat screwdriver or knife and separate the glue from the brick. It will come right off.
Will the hot glue blob removal work without pulling off the plaster and exposing the paper underneath the paint? My walls are plaster over cinderblock. Why the previous owners did this in their guest house (where I live) is unknown. This has had me stymied for years, but I’m really sick of having mostly empty walls!!
I want to use command hooks to hang strings of globe lights on our porch. But the walls and frame of the porch is made of textured vinyl siding. Would the hot glue trick make the command strips stick? Do you think the hot glue would damage the vinyl siding (ie melt it)?
Ty for your posts. I enjoy reading them. In glad that I came across your post
I have semi textured walls. Seems I cannot get the command hooks to stay ever. I do clean area, push and hold in place for 3 mins with timer.
Ty for you reply.
Adorei as dicas,este blog e maravilhoso,parabéns!!! amei
https://loja-sputnik.lojaintegrada.com.br/
Obrigado! :-)
So, just wanted to say i get too many emails. But I love you. You think of things I hadn’t even thought of you. You Rock!!!!! Thanks.
Hi Jillee,
These are great tips! I have shied away from Command Strips and hooks because I am afraid to ruin the surface – but your post has given me confidence to give them a try!
Thanks for the humidity tip. I have never gotten a strip to stay on period, and it made me feel like an idiot. Having first tried in Norther Virginia, with it’s notoriously high humidity and now in Asheville, NC during a humid summer, I know why they won’t work for me.
I have cleaned the area with alcohol and it still won’t stick. though it did stick for 6 months this time. I live in a house trailer and have paneling throughout the house.
Try her hot glue trick. to remove later just use rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab the hot glue will come right off.
Did you try cleaning with a magic eraser first? :-)
I’m afraid it would take the finish off the panel. If was paint I would not worry about it. I have seen what damage the Magic Eraser can do, even if you are careful. I do love them though.
In that case, I would use whatever cleaner you regularly use, followed up by a bit of rubbing alcohol :-)
I use a Command Cord Bundler on motor of my Ninja keeps cord in place and also provides a better grip when lifting it because of its smooth surface and shape. Also use to control cords in my office.