How To Put Up Festive Lights Without Damaging Your Walls

Proper lights can truly change the whole festive mood. But it can damage walls too. Find out easy tips and ways to put up the light without damaging your walls.

By NDTV Shopping Staff Published On: Oct 01, 2026 11:18 AM IST Last Updated On: Oct 01, 2026 11:19 AM IST
How To Put Up Festive Lights Without Damaging Your Walls

How To Put Up Festive Lights Without Damaging Your Walls

Believe it or not, the festive lights can easily make a home feel brighter and more inviting. Whether you are decorating for Diwali or a family celebration, a few strings of lights can transform a room. But putting them up can become a little tough. It can get even harder if you have freshly painted walls or simply don't want to use nails or screws, which can damage them.

Why Should You Avoid Drilling When Putting Up Festive Lights?

Why Should You Avoid Drilling When Putting Up Festive Lights?

But the good news is that you do not need to damage your walls to create a beautiful festive display. From removable adhesive hooks and clips to curtain rods, home furniture, and window surfaces, there are various simple methods to put up lights.  And, of course, you need a little planning to create a neat display. Also, you can find some excellent options from Amazon to make the process much easier.

Also Read: Top 5 Fairy Light Sets To Brighten Your Festive Decor Under ₹1000

Why Should You Avoid Drilling When Putting Up Festive Lights?

The main issue with drilling is that it gives you a secure place to attach decorations. But it is not always the wise choice for temporary festive decor. A few small holes can become an issue when you are decorating your house. Adhesive hooks and clips can be a nice choice for lightweight lights when used as per instruction. 

1. Protect Freshly Painted Walls

Usually, fresh paint can be frustrating when you want to decorate for only a few days. Nails, screws and strong adhesives can leave marks or even pull away some paint during removal. Using a simple removable hook or clip can help reduce that risk. Always check the product instructions and weight limit before putting up your lights.

2. Plan The Light Arrangement First

Before sticking anything to the wall, decide where you want the lights to go. Think about nearby plug points, the length of the light string and whether you want a straight line, soft curve or draped effect. Planning first also means you will not have to repeatedly move adhesive clips around.

How To Put Up Festive Lights Without Damaging Walls?

There are various easy ways to create a festive display without reaching for a drill. The best option will depend on the type of lights you have, the surface you are decorating and how much weight the hanging method can support.

1. Always Use Removable Adhesive Hooks And Clips

Clear adhesive hooks and small light clips are among the easiest options for lightweight string and fairy lights. Clean and dry the surface before applying them, then place the clips at suitable intervals. Avoid putting too much weight on one hook. 

2. Try Washi Tape or Removable Adhesive Strips

For very lightweight fairy lights, decorative washi tape can be a simple choice. It can also be part of the decoration if you choose a festive colour or pattern. Removable adhesive strips can work for slightly different arrangements, but always check that they suit your wall surface before use.

3. Use Adhesive Putty For Lightweight Lights

Adhesive putty can be useful when you want to hold thin, lightweight fairy lights in place. Place small amounts at regular intervals rather than relying on one large piece. This works particularly well for simple designs where the wire needs only a little support.

Where Can You Hang Festive Lights Without Using Nails?

Your walls are not the only place where festive lights can go. There are many other ways.

1. Drape Lights Around Curtain Rods

Curtain rods can provide an easy base for festive lighting. People can easily wrap the string around the rod or let the lights hang vertically in front of the curtains. In general, it works nicely around windows and can create a warm glow without attaching anything directly to the wall.

2. Wrap Them Around Furniture And Shelves

Bookshelves, cabinets, bed frames, side tables and other sturdy furniture can all become part of your lighting display. Drape the lights along the edges or wrap them around suitable sections instead of sticking them to the wall. This also makes it easier to change the arrangement later.

3. Use Windows With Suction Hooks

Smooth glass surfaces can be a nice option for festive lights. Suction hooks can hold lightweight decorations without adhesive and can be removed when the festival is over. 

What Should You Check Before Hanging Festive Lights?

A little care can help you avoid both wall damage and loose wires. Before putting up your lights, check the condition of the string, choose the right hanging method and think about how you will remove everything later.

1. Check The Lights And Hanging Accessories

Do check over the wires, plugs and bulbs before installing the lights. Do not use a damaged string. You should also check the weight capacity of your hooks or clips and ensure the method you choose is suitable for the surface.

2. Keep Wires Neat And Remove Them Carefully

Avoid leaving wires where people can trip over them, particularly around doorways and walkways. Once the celebration is over, always take the lights down gently instead of pulling them away from the wall.

What Should You Check Before Hanging Festive Lights?

What Should You Check Before Hanging Festive Lights?; Photo Credit: iStock

Some products you may like:

1. IQS Enterprise String Light Sticker Hook Heavy Duty Wall Hook

2. Velcro Brand Indoor Light Clips, Hanging String Lights

3. Mario Reusable Adhesive Tack Putty 

4. Command Decoration Clips 68 Small Adhesive Strips

5. HASTHIP Plastic Metal Adhesive Hooks

6. Zulaxy Double Sided Tape Heavy Duty for Wall

7. zafarro Heavy Duty Self-Adhesive No-Drill Wall Sticky Hooks for Hanging

8. DALUCI Self-Adhesive Wall Hooks

Putting up festive lights without damaging your walls is all about using smart, renter-friendly tricks. Use adhesive hooks, clips, or removable tape instead of nails to keep walls pristine. With the right hanging hacks, you can create a magical, well-lit festive home that looks stunning without leaving any marks behind. Shop now on Amazon.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I hang festive lights without drilling holes?

Yes. Lightweight festive lights can often be put up using removable adhesive hooks, clips, washi tape, adhesive putty, curtain rods, furniture or suction hooks on suitable smooth surfaces.

2. Will adhesive hooks damage painted walls?

Removable adhesive hooks are designed to come away more easily than permanent fixtures. But no method is guaranteed to work on every type of paint or wall. 

3. What is the easiest way to hang fairy lights indoors?

Generally, fairy lights are lightweight. Hence, the removal of adhesive clips is one of the simplest options. You can also even drape them around furniture, shelves or bed frames without attaching them to the wall.

4. Can I use suction hooks for festive lights?

Of course. Suction hooks work nicely on smooth surfaces like glass. Just clean the surface and make sure the hook is secure before adding the lights. 

5. How can I remove festive lights without peeling paint?

Just take the lights down slowly and follow the instructions before removing hooks or strips you used. Do not pull adhesive fixtures straight away from the wall. 



(Disclaimer: This article may include references to or features of products and services made available through affiliate marketing campaigns. NDTV Convergence Limited (“NDTV”) strives to maintain editorial independence while participating in such campaigns. NDTV does not assume responsibility for the performance or claims of any featured products or services.)
Ads