Brits across the country are dusting off their baubles, untangling fairy lights and humming carols – only to realise their walls might not survive the onslaught.
Reports suggest that the average household spends around £185 on Christmas decorations each year, but far fewer think about how those decorations are attached.
However, the experts at Fixabolt, UK suppliers of high grade stainless steel fixings, warn that traditional shortcuts like blu-tack, small nails and generic hooks regularly lead to peeling paint, cracked plaster and unnecessary holes.
Festive Décor Gone Wrong
While we can all get a little giddy about transforming our homes into festive havens in the lead up to Christmas, it’s all too common to lean on quick fixes, such as using’ blu-tack for wreaths, nails for garlands, or standard tape to secure twinkly lights.
Unfortunately, these can do real harm, with interior design experts warning that such tools may actually strip off wallpaper or lift paint when removed.
Even worse, poorly installed hooks or nails can even puncture plaster or, in more extreme cases, damage the infrastructure behind walls, if used incorrectly.
Recent UK research reveals that wall damage from seasonal decorating is more common than many people realise. In a survey by 3M, more than a quarter of respondents admitted to having damaged walls or surfaces when putting up their decorations.
These trends paint a clear picture that without the right fixings, festive cheer can quickly turn into a January headache.
And so, to help households decorate safely, securely, and without regret this Christmas – and to avoid ‘patch-up January’, Fixabolt’s team has pulled together its top recommendations to help households decorate safely, securely and without regret.
Tips on How to Hang Festive Decor Safely – and Avoid ‘Patch-Up January’
Choose the Right Hanging Tools
When hanging lighter, smaller items such as festive pictures, tinsel, and lighting, it’s always best to opt for removable adhesive hooks, clear strips, or Command-style hooks.
They’re strong enough to hold up throughout the festive period and beyond, and are easy to remove, minimising the possibility of damage to your wall or painted surfaces.
Heavier items like wreaths or chunky garlands need more support. Using the wrong nail or hook can rip plaster or mean the decor can fall down completely – especially on hollow walls.
“Every wall is different and every fixing has a limit,” explains Keith Hathaway, company Director and Co-owner at Fixabolt. “A brick wall can handle more weight than plasterboard, but only with the correct plug or anchor. Choosing the right fixings prevents cracks, collapses and potential injuries.”
“A carefully chosen fixing can save you from cracked plaster, broken decorations and even potential injury,” adds Fixabolt. “It’s an easy step that makes all the difference – especially with the heavier, statement pieces people love to display at Christmas.”
Prep Before You Stick or Drill
It might not be the most glamorous part of decking the halls, but a tiny bit of prep can save you from a world of wall-related regret come January.
Clean surfaces help adhesive hooks grip properly and stay put through the entire season. Dust, grease or pesky cobwebs can stop adhesive fixings from gripping properly, which is why they’re far more likely to slide off during the festive period.
For decorating doorways or archways, tension rods offer a zero-damage solution, which is ideal for renters or anyone wanting to avoid extra holes.Think of them as the “no-strings-attached” relationship of Christmas décor – commitment-free, stress-free and gone in seconds when the festivities end.
If You Need to Drill, Do It Right
Sometimes only a drill will do, especially if you’re hanging something hefty. But before you start making holes, take a moment to get acquainted with your wall.
If drilling is unavoidable, match the fixing to the wall type. Plasterboard, brick and old plaster all require different anchors.
Choose fixings rated for the weight you’re hanging as even light-looking decorations often become heavier when hung for several weeks.
Once the season ends, remove hardware gently and fill holes to prevent long-term damage.
Be Fire-Safe with Lights and Garlands – No One Wants a Flaming Christmas
Fairy lights may look magical, but they still need handling with care. Using nails, metal hooks or staples to attach light cables can puncture the wires and create a fire risk, so skip anything that could pierce or pinch the cable. Instead, opt for non-damaging clips, gentle ties or adhesive hooks that keep lights firmly in place without sparking danger.
When you’re hanging garlands or wreaths, keep them clear of open flames, heaters and log burners. Decorations need breathing room too, and ensuring you have good airflow behind foliage or fabric can help to prevent heat build-up, and helps keep both your home and your décor safe throughout the festive season.
Long-Term Care and Removal
Once the festivities are over for another year, it might be tempting to try and keep the magic alive by leaving some of the less seasonal decorations hanging up for a few weeks or even months more.
Sadly though, garlands and hanging pieces that sit flush against the wall for too long can trap moisture which may lead to peeling paint or damp patches.
Remove everything with care and store reusable fittings and hooks properly so you can use them again the following year as they can help you to save money, as well as protecting your walls year after year.
Keith concludes, “Christmas decorating should be joyful, not a pain in the wall. And whilst festive decorating is a cherished tradition, when the tinsel comes down, many people discover cracked plasterboard, damaged brickwork, or holes that aren’t easily filled, particularly in older homes. Temporary, no-damage fixings are a smarter, low-risk alternative.
“With the right fixings, you can hang everything securely and remove it again cleanly come the New Year. Smart decoration isn’t just about aesthetics, it protects your home, saves money, and prevents post-festive stress.”
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