Quick answer: nano tape is a clear, gel-like double-sided mounting tape. To use it, clean and dry both surfaces, cut or peel off a piece, stick it to the back of a light item, remove the second liner and press the item firmly onto a smooth surface. It is meant for light items on clean, smooth surfaces such as tile, glass, metal and smooth plastic, not for heavy objects or textured walls.
What is nano tape?
“Nano tape” is a common name for a transparent double-sided tape with a soft, gel-like adhesive layer. You may also see it called gel tape, clear mounting tape or reusable mounting tape. It is usually sold on a roll that you cut to length, or as pre-cut strips. Because it is clear, it is less noticeable than foam mounting tape when an edge shows.
TidyMend sells reusable double-sided nano mounting tape in pre-cut strips supplied in a small case, and clear double-sided mounting tape (20 mm × 1 m × 1 mm) on a roll. Both are in Mounting & Double-Sided Tape.
What can you use nano tape for?
- Holding a remote, small organiser or phone stand in place on a desk or shelf
- Stopping small objects sliding around on a shelf, dashboard or tray
- Fixing small, light frames or signs to smooth surfaces
- Keeping a small cable box, charger tray or desk accessory from moving
For hanging things such as towels, keys or utensils, an adhesive hook is usually a better fit than tape on its own.
Step-by-step: how to use nano tape
- Check the item and the surface. Use nano tape for light items only. The surface should be smooth and non-porous; tape does not hold well on textured walls, wallpaper, fabric or dusty surfaces.
- Clean both surfaces. Wipe the back of the item and the spot where it will go to remove dust and grease, then let both dry completely.
- Cut or take a strip. Cut a piece from the roll with scissors, or peel a pre-cut strip from its case. Use enough tape to cover a good part of the back of the item, with pieces near the edges and corners.
- Stick it to the item first. Peel off one liner and press the tape onto the back of the item. Try not to touch the sticky side with your fingers.
- Position and press. Remove the second liner, line the item up and press it firmly onto the surface for several seconds, pressing over every part of the tape.
- Give it time. Follow the guidance on the packaging and leave the item for a while before you use it or put anything on it.
How to remove nano tape
Lift one edge slowly, pulling the tape back along the surface rather than straight out. Peel gently; do not yank. Some adhesive tapes may mark painted walls or wallpaper when removed, so test in a hidden spot first if you are unsure, especially in a rented home.
Can nano tape be reused?
Tape sold as reusable, like our nano mounting tape strips, can be peeled off and used again. How well it sticks a second time depends on how clean it stays. Keep spare strips in their case so the sticky surface stays free of dust, and check the packaging for any cleaning instructions.
Nano tape vs. other mounting options
- Nano / gel tape: clear, cut to any length, good for small, light items and for stopping things sliding.
- Adhesive hooks: better for hanging things, with a hook already attached. See clear adhesive wall hooks or self-adhesive J-hooks.
- Adhesive screw hooks: a clear pad with a screw post, for fitting small racks or frames that have a hanging hole. See no-drill adhesive screw hooks.
- Screws and wall plugs: the usual choice for heavy items such as shelves, mirrors or TVs.
More options in the shop: the EZlifego clear nano mounting tape, 3 m, the ALIEN TAPE nano tape, 3 rolls (ships to the United States only) and the GRIFEMA clear reusable double-sided tape, 3 m (ships to the United Kingdom only).
Frequently asked questions
Is nano tape the same as double-sided tape?
It is a type of double-sided tape. The difference is the clear, gel-like adhesive layer, which is thicker and softer than thin paper-backed double-sided tape.
What surfaces does nano tape work on?
Clean, smooth, non-porous surfaces such as glass, tile, metal and smooth plastic. It is not suited to textured walls, wallpaper, fabric or surfaces that shed dust.
How much weight can nano tape hold?
It depends on the tape, the surface and how much tape you use, so follow the guidance on the packaging. Our product pages describe these tapes for light items, so do not use them for heavy objects or anything that could fall and break.
Will nano tape damage my wall?
It may mark painted walls or wallpaper when removed. Use it on tile, glass or metal where possible, and peel it off slowly.
Can I use nano tape in the bathroom or kitchen?
You can use it on clean, dry tile or glass. Let it settle before the area gets wet, and keep to light items.
Related guides
How to hide and organize desk cables · How to organize under the kitchen sink · How to fill nail holes in a wall · How to use adhesive hooks · All TidyMend guides