Hey y’all, it’s Joe here and I’ve got a funny story to share with you about Command Strips. So, a couple of months ago I was trying to hang a new poster in my living room.
I’m not the most handy guy around, but I thought to myself “how hard can it be?” So, I grabbed a couple of Command Strips and got to work.
Long story short, I ended up hanging the poster halfway on the wall, halfway on the ceiling, and at a weird angle. My roommates still give me a hard time about it to this day.
But, my mishap with the poster got me thinking.
Are Command Strips really as easy to use and damage-free as the packaging claims? So, I did some research and I’m here to share my findings with you.
In short, Command Strips can be used without causing damage to your walls, but it’s important to follow the instructions and to remove them properly.
Table of Contents
Why Command Strips Are So Popular
Command Strips are a type of adhesive that allows you to hang items on your walls without leaving holes or causing damage.
They’re super popular because they’re easy to use, versatile, and they can hold a surprising amount of weight. Plus, they’re perfect for renters or anyone who doesn’t want to put holes in their walls.
How Command Strips Work
Command Strips are made of two parts: the adhesive strip and the removable backing. To use them, you simply peel off the backing, press the adhesive strip onto the back of the item you want to hang, and then press the item onto the wall.
The adhesive strip is designed to hold the item securely while also being easy to remove.
The Pros and Cons of Using Command Strips
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easy to use | Not suitable for heavy items |
| Damage-free | Not always reusable |
| Versatile | Can leave residue behind |
| Holds a lot of weight | Not suitable for outdoor use |
How to Remove Command Strips Without Damaging Walls
Removing Command Strips can be a bit trickier than applying them, but it’s still possible to do it without causing damage to your walls.
Here are some tips to help you remove Command Strips without leaving marks or residue behind:
1. Heat up the adhesive strip
The adhesive strip on Command Strips is activated by heat, so if you apply a bit of heat to the strip, it will release its grip on the wall.
You can use a hair dryer or a heat gun to do this. Just be careful not to over heat the strip as this could damage the paint or wallpaper.
2. Use a plastic card or spatula
Another way to release the adhesive strip is to use a plastic card or spatula. Gently slide the card or spatula behind the item you’re trying to remove and wiggle it back and forth.
This should loosen the adhesive strip and allow you to remove the item without causing damage to the wall.
3. Use rubbing alcohol or vinegar
In some cases, Command Strips can leave a residue behind when you remove them. To remove the residue, you can use rubbing alcohol or vinegar.
Simply apply a small amount of the liquid to a cotton ball or cloth and gently rub the residue. Be sure to test the solution on an inconspicuous area of the wall first to make sure it won’t cause damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Command Strips hold a lot of weight?
Yeah, for sure. Command Strips can hold a surprising amount of weight. According to the manufacturer, the medium strips can hold up to 3 lbs, and the large strips can hold up to 7.5 lbs.
However, it’s always a good idea to check the weight limits on the package before using them.
Can Command Strips be used on outdoor surfaces?
Nah, man. Command Strips are designed for indoor use only. If you try to use them outdoors, they’ll probably fall off or get damaged by the elements.
Can Command Strips be reused?
It depends on the type of Command Strip you’re using. Some of the strips can be reused, but others are designed to be used once and then thrown away. Be sure to check the package before you reuse them.
In Conclusion
So, can Command Strips ruin walls? The short answer is no, but it’s important to follow the instructions and remove them properly to avoid any damage.
Command Strips are a great option for renters or anyone who wants to hang items on their walls without putting holes in them. Just be sure to use them correctly and you’ll be good to go.