How To Hang Things On The Wall In A Rental Flat: 13 Smart and Damage-Free Ideas

Renting a flat has many perks: flexibility, less responsibility for maintenance, and often, stylish city living. But when it comes to personalizing your space, renters often face a common challenge—how to hang things on the wall without damaging it. Whether you want to display artwork, hang shelves, or add mirrors, it's essential to do so without drilling holes or breaching your lease agreement.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through 13 clever, damage-free, and landlord-approved ways to hang things on the wall in a rental flat. From picture hooks to Velcro strips, these ideas will help you decorate confidently without risking your deposit.

1. Adhesive Picture Hooks

Adhesive picture hooks are one of the easiest and most renter-friendly solutions. Brands like Command Hooks offer a wide variety of options that can hold everything from small frames to large mirrors. They stick to the wall using a strong adhesive and can be removed cleanly without peeling paint or leaving marks.

Best for: Lightweight to medium-weight frames and wall art.

2. Picture Rails

Many older rental flats come with picture rails already installed. If yours does, you're in luck! Picture rails allow you to hang art from a moulding near the ceiling using hooks and wires or cords. This method is elegant and completely damage-free.

Best for: Large artworks, gallery walls, and vintage or period-style decor.

3. Removable Velcro Strips

Velcro hanging strips, like Command Strips, are perfect for renters who want a clean, minimalist look. These strips stick to the wall and the back of your frame, holding it securely in place without any hardware.

Best for: Framed photos, posters, and canvases up to a certain weight limit.

4. Tension Rods for Hanging Fabrics or Art

Tension rods aren’t just for shower curtains—they can be used to hang lightweight artwork, tapestries, or even floating shelves in window alcoves or between two walls. No screws, no holes, and you can take them down anytime.

Best for: Fabric art, lightweight frames, and creative room dividers.

5. Lean Your Art Against the Wall

Leaning framed artwork against the wall is a stylish, damage-free alternative to hanging. Place large frames on the floor, atop dressers, or on floating shelves to add character without lifting a hammer.

Best for: Oversized frames, mirrors, and layered gallery wall styling.

6. Use Freestanding Shelving Units

Instead of wall-mounted shelves, opt for freestanding bookcases or ladder shelves. These can display art, decor, and even plants without touching the wall. You can also attach frames to the sides of the shelving for added visual interest.

Best for: Multi-functional decor and renters who love to rearrange.

7. Damage-Free Wall Putty or Adhesive Tac

Perfect for lightweight items like postcards, small photos, or paper art, wall putty or adhesive tack can hold items without any residue. Simply press the putty onto the back of your item and stick it to the wall.

Best for: Posters, paper art, and temporary displays.

8. Magnetic Paint or Dry-Erase Paint

If you’re up for a semi-permanent yet rental-safe solution, consider using magnetic primer or dry-erase paint on one wall. You’ll need to check with your landlord first, but they can usually be painted over when you leave.

Best for: Creative renters, home offices, or kitchen walls.

9. Over-the-Door Hooks and Hangers

While not technically on the wall, over-the-door hangers can be used creatively to hang small storage baskets, mirrors, or even lightweight art. They’re ideal for bathrooms, bedrooms, and small spaces.

Best for: Towels, accessories, and extra storage.

10. Clipboards or Bulldog Clips on a String

Hang a string or wire between two removable adhesive hooks and use bulldog clips or clipboards to hang art. This method is playful, easy to update, and perfect for renters who like to switch things up regularly.

Best for: Rotating art displays, photos, and minimalist design.

11. Washi Tape Frames

Washi tape is a colorful, patterned tape that can be used to "frame" photos, postcards, or prints directly on the wall. It's gentle, removable, and adds a creative flair to your space.

Best for: Small prints, dorm-style decor, and mood boards.

12. Use Furniture as a Backdrop

Let your furniture do the heavy lifting. Use bookcases, dressers, and headboards to support framed art or mirrors. You can even rest art on the top ledge of a tall cabinet or wardrobe.

Best for: Layered, boho interiors or gallery-style arrangements.

13. Stick-On Wall Hooks for Hanging Decor Objects

Stick-on wall hooks aren’t just for coats—they can be used to hang hats, baskets, small shelves, hanging planters, and more. Choose clear or decorative options for a stylish and functional solution.

Best for: Entryways, bedrooms, and hanging functional items.

Final Tips for Hanging Things in a Rental Flat

Before you start decorating, here are a few extra tips to keep in mind:

• Always check your lease to see what’s allowed in terms of wall modifications.
• Test adhesives on a small patch of wall to avoid paint damage.
• Use a level and measuring tape to ensure straight and symmetrical displays.
• Keep original packaging of hanging tools for easy removal and re-use.
• Patch small holes with filler and paint when moving out to avoid deposit deductions.

Just because you’re renting doesn’t mean you can’t make your space feel like home. With these 13 renter-friendly wall hanging ideas, you can style your flat beautifully and confidently—without a single nail or permanent mark. Whether you’re creating a gallery wall, showcasing your favourite prints, or adding functional storage, these solutions are landlord-approved and easy to implement.

Now it’s your turn- pick a method that suits your style and start decorating your walls today. Your personality deserves to shine, even in a rental!