How To Hang Shelves Without Damaging Your Walls
Adding shelves is a smart and stylish way to get organized—but we get it, not everyone wants to leave behind wall scars. Whether you’re renting or just want to avoid unnecessary repairs, here are some tried-and-true methods from the pros at Edward’s Enterprises to get the job done without a drywall disaster.
1. Start with the Right Shelf Type
If drilling is a no-go, consider:
- Adhesive wall shelves: These use heavy-duty strips or suction systems. Best for lightweight items like picture frames or small plants.
- Tension pole shelving units: Great in corners or closets, they use floor-to-ceiling pressure to hold shelves up.
- Freestanding ladder shelves: Zero wall contact needed and they double as a statement piece.
2. Use Damage-Free Mounting Hardware
For shelves that do require some wall contact:
- Command™ Strips or Velcro-style fasteners work best with small wall-mounted shelves.
- Removable hooks can support hanging-style shelf systems, like wire basket shelves.
- Always check the weight rating of any adhesive hardware and avoid overloading.
3. Lean Into the Studs—But Only if You Must
If you need a more permanent hold and don’t mind a tiny bit of drilling:
- Use a stud finder to locate framing behind the wall.
- Drill small pilot holes into the stud only—avoiding drywall anchors helps minimize wall damage.
- Choose decorative brackets to hide the small mounting spots.
4. Floor-Based Options Are Your Friend
Bookshelves, carts, and étagères offer all the storage—none of the fuss. Plus, they’re super flexible if you decide to rearrange or move later. You can find a VAST selection of really cool shelving ideas, from Mid-Century Modern to ornate Baroque shelving units. A side benefit is that you can resell a lot of nicer shelving units, unlike many of the wall mounted shelving that can just be bought at a large hardware store.
Pro Tip from Edward’s Enterprises:
If you’re unsure about weight limits or surface materials, it’s better to consult a professional than risk a shelf (and everything on it) crashing down. We can always help assess your wall type and recommend solutions that keep your space looking polished—and intact.