DIY Builds
Photo by PNW Production Pexels Logo Photo: PNW Production

Why do my Command strips keep falling?

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.

How many square feet is a 8x12 shed?
How many square feet is a 8x12 shed?

96 square feet 8×12 Storage Sheds: Things to Know 96 square feet of space is a medium-sized wood shed. With a structure this size, you can store a...

Read More »
How much weight can a 3 4 plywood shelf hold?
How much weight can a 3 4 plywood shelf hold?

One of the most commonly-used plywood thicknesses is ¾ inch plywood. You can find 1-inch-thick fir plywood for use in heavy construction projects....

Read More »

Here's everything you need to know about using Command strips successfully, and how to remove them later. 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.

Related: 11 Stick-On Products That Make Organizing Your Life Insanely Easy

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.

Related: Problem Solved! How To Get Suction Cups To Stay Stuck

What can I do if my Neighbours trees are blocking my light?
What can I do if my Neighbours trees are blocking my light?

Neighbour's tree blocking light into my garden – what can I do? Talk to your neighbour. It's good to talk. ... Check whether trees are protected....

Read More »
Who is the best guitar player alive?
Who is the best guitar player alive?

The list of greatest living guitarists today includes Eric Clapton, Jimmy Page, Keith Richards, Jeff Beck, Pete Townshend, David Glamour, and Derek...

Read More »

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. More Ideas You'll Love 10 Hacks for Fun & Stress-Free Holiday Entertaining Most of us enjoy hosting parties or get-togethers every once in a while...especially during the holidays. It’s a great feeling to be able to get your ... Continue Reading

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. 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.

How far up should a vapor barrier be installed?
How far up should a vapor barrier be installed?

If only adding a quality vapor barrier and not sealing the crawlspace, the experts recommend extending the vapor barrier up the wall, six to twelve...

Read More »
Does metal storage shed get hot?
Does metal storage shed get hot?

Metal, much more than plastic or wood, absorbs the sun's energy much more efficiently. Therefore, on a hot day, the inside of your metal shed will...

Read More »
Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »

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.) More Ideas You'll Love 10 Unexpected Uses for Steel Wool When we first moved into our studio, an old house built in 1939, it needed of a LOT of TLC. One of the first projects we tackled was restoring a big ... Continue Reading 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. 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! :-) I may receive compensation when you click through and purchase from links contained on this website. I always offer my own genuine recommendation. Learn more.

Can I live in a shed legally in Florida?
Can I live in a shed legally in Florida?

In Florida, specifically, it is in fact illegal to live in a shed. This is because sheds are built below Florida's building codes for homes, are...

Read More »
How do I keep spiders out of my pole barn?
How do I keep spiders out of my pole barn?

Prevent them from returning by spraying the area with a residual insecticide. Spiders come in from the outdoors, so you should also spray the...

Read More »
Are shed plans easy to follow?
Are shed plans easy to follow?

These are! They guide you every step of the way to complete your dream shed.

Learn More »
Can I marry an Amish man?
Can I marry an Amish man?

To get married in the Amish community, members must be baptized in the church. Outsiders, non-Amish, or 'English', as they call the rest of the...

Read More »
Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »
Is there an insulation that rats don't like?
Is there an insulation that rats don't like?

Spray foam insulation is completely rodent proof due to the air tight barrier it creates, but also because it does not act as a breeding ground or...

Read More »