Tiled walls are beautiful, but drilling into them? Risky, time-consuming and often unnecessary. If you’ve ever wondered how to hang things on tile without drilling, you’re not alone. Whether it’s a picture, a mirror or a grab bar, the idea of cracking a tile or leaving permanent holes can be stressful, especially if you’re renting.
If you’re ready to find a smarter way to hang on tile, you’re in the right place. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know, from the best adhesive solution to step-by-step instructions and creative ideas for your space.
Here’s What We’ll Cover
- Skip the Drill—Stick Instead
- The Secret: VELCRO® Brand Kitchen and Bath Fasteners
- Step-by-Step: How to Hang Things on Tile Without Drilling
- Top Tips for Hanging on Tile
- What You Can Hang Without Drilling
1. Skip the Drill—Stick Instead
Drilling into tile can lead to cracked surfaces, chipped edges and permanent holes. Even with the right tools—like a diamond tip drill bit or wall anchors—you still run the risk of breaking the tile or damaging the grout line. And if you’re renting or would prefer to go without the mess, drilling probably isn’t your first choice.
Luckily, there’s a smarter solution. You can hang things on tile walls without drilling, and it’s easier than you think.
2. The Secret: VELCRO® Brand Kitchen and Bath Fasteners
VELCRO® Brand Kitchen and Bath fasteners are designed for high-moisture areas. They stick to tile, glass, metal and other smooth surfaces, making them ideal for bathrooms and kitchens. They’re strong, easy to use and don’t leave marks when removed.
Each fastener holds up to 10 pounds (1 lb per square inch), making them perfect for lightweight mirrors, small shelves and other décor. Instead of drilling, you just peel, stick and press. No tools, no mess, no stress.
3. Step-by-Step: How to Hang Things on Tile Without Drilling
Time needed: 5 minutes
No tools? No problem. Here’s how to get a strong, secure hold—without ever picking up a drill:
- Start with a clean surface.
Wipe down your tile with soap and water (or rubbing alcohol) to remove any dust, grease or leftover bathroom grime.
- Let it completely dry.
The adhesive needs a dry surface to stick properly, so make sure there’s no moisture left behind.
- Stick it where you want it.
Apply one side of the fastener to your item—like a mirror, shelf or picture—and the other side to the tile wall.
- Press and hold.
Give it a good 30-second press to help the adhesive bond to the surface.
- Let it set.
For heavier items, wait 24 hours before hanging to make sure everything’s secure and ready to go.
4. Top Tips for Hanging on Tile
- Apply fasteners at room temperature (above 50°F / 10°C)
- Avoid placing fasteners on grout lines for the best hold
- Use multiple fasteners to distribute weight evenly
- Let the adhesive cure for 24 hours before hanging heavier items
- Stick to smooth, clean surfaces for maximum adhesion
- Always check the weight of the item before hanging
5. What You Can Hang Without Drilling
With VELCRO® Brand Kitchen and Bath Tape, you can hang all kinds of items on tile walls—no tools, no holes, no stress. Whether you’re decorating, organizing or adding a little extra support, these fasteners make it easy.
Here are just a few ideas:
- Magnetic knife holders for sleek, space-saving storage
- Spice shelves in the kitchen
- Toothbrush holders or razor racks in the shower
- Temporary grab bars for added support where you need it
- Lightweight/small mirrors for a quick style upgrade
- Small shelves for candles, plants or bathroom essentials
- Pictures and artwork to add personality to your space
- Seasonal décor without damaging tile
💡Top Tip: Always check the weight of the item before hanging. VELCRO® Brand Kitchen and Bath Fasteners hold 1 lb per square inch, with a maximum hold of 10 lbs.
Final Thoughts
Drilling into tile isn’t your only option. With the right tools, you can hang mirrors, pictures, shelves and more—without damaging your walls. VELCRO® Brand Kitchen and Bath Fasteners make it easy to decorate and organize your space, even in high-moisture areas.
So next time you’re wondering how to hang things on tile without drilling, skip the drill and stick with a smarter solution.
Want to keep up with our DIY hacks?
Follow @velcrobrand on Instagram for more clever tips, product ideas and inspiration. You may also like our blog on how to hang on brick.
FAQs
Use adhesive fasteners like VELCRO® Brand Kitchen and Bath Fasteners. They’re strong, moisture-resistant and easy to remove.
Yes! Just make sure it’s lightweight and use multiple fasteners to spread the weight.
For temporary or light use, adhesive options work well. For permanent support, professional installation is best.
Follow these steps to remove heavy-duty fasteners, like VELCRO® Brand Kitchen & Bath Mounting Tape (others are designed to come away more easily):
1. Warm the tape (hook or loop side) with a hair dryer. Do not use a heat gun.
2. Peel off the tape. The adhesive will remain on the wall.
3. Warm the adhesive again with the hair dryer, peel off a piece and roll it into a ball.
4. Cool the adhesive using ice in a plastic bag for a few moments.
5. Press the adhesive ball onto the remaining adhesive and pull it off.
6. Repeat step 5 until all adhesive is removed. This may take some time.
7. If any tackiness remains, use a commercial adhesive remover or a citrus-based cleaner.
