Hanging posters shouldn’t be a nail-biting experience—literally. You want your favorite art or band memorabilia on the wall, not chunks of paint peeling off with the tape. Finding the right tape can be tricky. Some promise the world but deliver only frustration and damaged walls. That’s why I’ve tested a bunch of tapes to find the ones that actually work for posters.
Here’s a quick rundown of my top picks for keeping your posters up without wrecking your walls:
- Scotch Wall-Safe Tape: Best overall for painted walls.
- 3M Command Strips: Ideal for heavier posters and smooth surfaces.
- Gorilla Mounting Putty: Great for textured walls and temporary displays.
- Elmer’s Removable Mounting Tape: Budget-friendly option for lightweight posters.
- Duck Brand Removable Poster Tape: Good all-around performer for various poster types.
Top 5 Best Tape For Posters
1. Scotch Wall-Safe Tape
Scotch Wall-Safe Tape is designed specifically for painted walls, promising a clean removal without damage. It’s thin, clear, and practically disappears once applied. I’ve used this in my apartment, and it’s been a lifesaver on my delicate walls.
Pros:
- ✅ Removes cleanly from painted surfaces.
- ✅ Virtually invisible due to its clear design.
- ✅ Easy to tear and apply.
Cons:
- ❌ Not ideal for heavier posters.
- ❌ Might not work well on textured walls.
- ❌ Can be a bit pricier than other options.
Verdict: Best for renters or anyone who wants to avoid damaging painted walls with lightweight posters.
2. 3M Command Strips
3M Command Strips are a go-to for many because they offer a strong hold and damage-free removal. They use an adhesive that sticks firmly but can be stretched off cleanly. I used these to hang some heavier movie posters, and they haven’t budged.
Pros:
- ✅ Holds heavier posters securely.
- ✅ Removes cleanly without leaving residue.
- ✅ Easy to apply and remove.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be more expensive than tape.
- ❌ Might not work well on all wall types (e.g., heavily textured).
- ❌ Need to follow instructions carefully for proper removal.
Verdict: Perfect for heavier posters or when you need a very secure hold on smooth surfaces.
3. Gorilla Mounting Putty
Gorilla Mounting Putty is a versatile option for those who need a temporary hold, especially on textured surfaces. It’s moldable and reusable, making it great for frequent changes. I use this in my office to put up brainstorming notes on the wall, and it works like a charm.
Pros:
- ✅ Works well on textured walls.
- ✅ Reusable and moldable.
- ✅ Easy to apply and remove.
Cons:
- ❌ Not as strong as tape or strips for heavier items.
- ❌ Can leave a slight oily residue on some surfaces.
- ❌ Might dry out over time.
Verdict: Best for temporary displays and lightweight posters on various surfaces, especially textured ones.
4. Elmer’s Removable Mounting Tape
Elmer’s Removable Mounting Tape is a budget-friendly option that still offers good performance for lightweight posters. It’s designed to be easily removable without damaging surfaces. I’ve used this for kids’ room decorations, and it’s been gentle on the walls.
Pros:
- ✅ Affordable price point.
- ✅ Easy to remove without damage.
- ✅ Good for lightweight posters.
Cons:
- ❌ Not suitable for heavy posters.
- ❌ Might not hold as well as other tapes.
- ❌ Can sometimes leave a slight residue.
Verdict: A great choice if you’re on a budget and need to hang lightweight posters without damaging walls.
5. Duck Brand Removable Poster Tape
Duck Brand Removable Poster Tape is an all-around performer that offers a good balance of hold and removability. It’s designed for posters and other lightweight items. I’ve found this to be a reliable option for general use around the house.
Pros:
- ✅ Good balance of hold and removability.
- ✅ Suitable for various poster types.
- ✅ Easy to use.
Cons:
- ❌ Not the strongest option for very heavy posters.
- ❌ Might not work well on all wall types.
- ❌ Can sometimes leave a slight residue.
Verdict: A solid all-around choice for hanging posters, offering a reliable hold and clean removal.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right tape for your posters depends on a few factors. Here’s what to consider:
- Wall Type: Are your walls painted, textured, or wallpapered? Painted walls need tape specifically designed for them, like Scotch Wall-Safe Tape. Textured walls might benefit from mounting putty.
- Poster Weight: Lightweight posters can use most tapes, but heavier posters need something stronger like 3M Command Strips.
- Removability: Do you need to move your posters frequently? Mounting putty is great for temporary displays.
- Adhesive Strength: Consider how well the tape adheres to both the poster and the wall. Read reviews to see if others have had issues with the tape falling down.
- Residue: Some tapes can leave residue behind, which can be a pain to clean. Look for tapes that promise clean removal.
- Cost: Balance your needs with your budget. Sometimes it’s worth spending a bit more for a tape that won’t damage your walls.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about tape for posters:
Q: Will these tapes damage my painted walls?
A: Not all tapes are created equal. Tapes like Scotch Wall-Safe Tape and 3M Command Strips are designed for painted walls and should remove cleanly if used correctly. Always test in an inconspicuous area first.
Q: Can I reuse mounting putty?
A: Yes, mounting putty is generally reusable. Just roll it into a ball and reapply. However, it might lose some of its stickiness over time.
Q: What if the tape leaves residue on my wall?
A: Try gently rubbing the residue with a clean, damp cloth. You can also use a bit of mild soap if needed. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the paint.
Q: How do I remove Command Strips properly?
A: Follow the instructions on the package. Usually, you need to slowly pull the strip straight down along the wall. This stretches the adhesive and releases it cleanly.
Q: Are these tapes suitable for hanging posters on doors?
A: Yes, most of these tapes can be used on doors, but make sure the surface is clean and smooth. Test in an inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t damage the door’s finish.
Conclusion
Choosing the right tape for your posters can save you from wall damage and frustration. Consider your wall type, poster weight, and how often you plan to move things around. Whether you go for the wall-safe reliability of Scotch tape, the heavy-duty hold of Command Strips, or the versatility of mounting putty, you’ll be able to display your posters with confidence.
This site contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you click on a link and buy a product, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
