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Gaffer tape is one of the most versatile materials at home or the construction site. It doesn’t easily unstick or break, so acquiring a roll ensures success in your next do-it-yourself (DIY) project. You’re only a click away from restocking on trustworthy tape. Discover the best gaffer tape options in 2025.
What Is Gaffer Tape?
Gaffer tape contains cotton cloth and heavy-duty material. It’s pressure-sensitive and provides strong adhesive properties for any project. Gaffer tape looks similar to duct or electrical tape, so confusing the types is easy.
You’ll likely see gaffer tape in your friend’s summer DIY project or construction sites across town. This material has numerous functions, such as taping cables behind the couch or underneath the rug. Moving furniture can be a hassle, but gaffer tape can help secure these pieces in your truck or van. People also use gaffer tape to temporarily fix leaks or broken toys.
This tool is also helpful for various creative pursuits. Imagine moving into your first apartment and putting your personal touch on the place. You can use gaffer tape to create decorations and jewelry to make the living space your own.
What Are the Best Gaffer Tape Options?
Gaffer tape is helpful for nearly any project you have in mind, so it’s worth your time and money to check out the best products on the market. We’ve listed these five options to get you started.
1. Lockport Black Gaffer Tape (4-Pack)
Lockport’s gaffer tape is straightforward, securing tape cables, gear and other equipment without hassle. You can choose between black and white options, and bundle it with other tape types. It has a non-reflective matte finish, which you can easily tear by hand. It’s thick and strong enough, but be careful when using it in direct heat as it may adhere strongly. Lockport’s gaffer tape is more than capable of fixing a leaky faucet or your kid’s broken toys.
2. Neon Fluorescent Gaffer Tape (60 Yards)
A little bit of color won’t hurt anybody. If you’re looking for colorful gaffer tape, this fluorescent version from DGS USA is up your alley. DGS gives you numerous options for color, including green, yellow, pink and orange. When shopping, you can choose a 30-yard or 55-yard roll, so pick the option that best suits you. If you plan for frequent use, consider the larger roll.
3. Reli. Black Gaffer Tape
Do you have a big project coming up? Are you in charge of supplies for your construction company? Inventory managers often look for ways to cut costs and come in under budget, especially with modern supply chain disruptions. One way to stay ahead is to buy affordable gaffer tape without compromising quality.
Reli. offers two 2-inch, 30-yard rolls of gaffer tape for only $11.99. Each tape roll has strong rubber adhesive with a matte finish, making it ideal for basic construction tasks or simple repairs at home. Many reviews note it has a sleek design, considering the price point.
4. WOD Low Gloss Gaffer Tape (60 Yards)
Electrical or duct tape can be annoying to work with because it leaves residue from the adhesive. If you’re worried about tape compromising your art projects, WOD’s gaffer tape has low gloss and provides easy and clean removal on most surfaces. The manufacturer says the tape is most suitable for minimizing its visibility.
WOD’s tape is non-reflective, so it blends in with most backgrounds. It’s also available in various colors, including shades of blue and yellow, making it ideal for your creative pursuits.
5. Hosa Gaffer Tape
Whether you require high-performing gaffer tapes at work or your DIY projects, look no further than Hosa’s gaffer tape. Each roll features a four-inch width, 60-yard tape available in black and white variants. Special features include fine cloth, matte finish and residue-free material, so you don’t need to scrub sticky residue. Customers find this exceptional, with one mentioning it can hold up heavy curtains.
It’s on the pricier side, but it’s one of the best gaffer tape options for its price point. Plus, you get what you pay for.
6. Shurtape P-665
Shurtape P-665 is easy to rip with your hands, yet has a strong adhesive. Stick it to walls and furniture without worrying about ripping off paint. It features a one-inch width and 55 yards per roll, making it the ideal all-purpose tape. You can use it for sealing, splicing, holding, color coding or for decorative purposes.
Tips for Applying Gaffer Tape
If you’re applying gaffer tape for a project, here are a few ways to make it more effective.
Apply on a Clean Surface
When dust and debris are on a floor or table, it can stick to the underside of the tape, making it less effective. Gaffer tape should stay in place during use and easily removed when you finish your project. However, particles sticking to the underside can make your tape prematurely break away, defeating its intended purpose.
Before placing your tape, clean your surface with a solution that won’t leave residue behind, such as vinegar and water or another natural cleaner.
Weigh Down One Side
You’ll need to apply your tape for the best coverage tightly. If you’re alone, weigh the first end you place with a book, speaker or other solid object. Doing so lets you keep tension as you lay out the rest of your piece, helping the stickiness stay equally distributed.
Reinforce in the Opposite Direction
You can strengthen the hold on your items by reinforcing your gaffer tape. Horizontally placing a long strip of tape can make it stronger by adding small pieces vertically along it. The extra tension and adhesive will amplify the effect of your original work without making it harder to remove.
Use Scissors to Cut It
While it’s possible to tear apart gaffer tape, you should only do so if necessary. Pulling it apart requires a lot of force, which can strain the tape’s fibers. It can weaken your tape and a jagged cut with threads sticking out isn’t aesthetically pleasing. A quick and blunt cut with scissors eliminates the excess force and provides a clean line.
Tie Together Cords/Cables Before Taping Them
Gaffer tape is a standard solution for improving safety and aesthetics around a home. You can use it to tape down multiple cords and cables at once. However, bringing them together with cable or zip ties makes the tape more effective. Lamp cords and HDMI cables can shift as you lay the tape, making it hard to ensure a tight seal over them. By using ties, you can keep everything neatly together as you tape it down.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Still curious about something? You may find the answer below:
1. What Is the Difference Between Gaffer Tape and Duct Tape?
Both are essential toolbox items, but have different characteristics.
- Adhesive: Most duct tapes are stickier than gaffer tapes and can perform well on uneven surfaces. Gaffer tape uses a synthetic, rubber-based adhesive, which is strong enough for the entertainment and construction industries.
- Residue: Gaffer tape leaves no residue, whereas duct tape will leave some behind.
- Backing: The backing of duct tape is usually made of a plastic coating over a fabric mesh, providing a degree of water resistance. Conversely, gaffer tape is typically made from a tightly woven cotton cloth, giving it flexibility.
- Appearance: Duct tapes are usually shiny, while gaffers have a matte finish, which is important for stage settings and temporary repairs.
2. Is Gaffer Tape Waterproof?
Because it has no plastic backing, most gaffer tape options aren’t waterproof. However, the coated cloth backing is enough to make them moisture-resistant.
3. Can You Reuse Gaffer Tapes?
If the used gaffer tape is applied to a clean, dry surface, you can reuse it. However, if the removed tape has gathered dust, dirt and other debris, its adhesiveness may be compromised. Stretching the tape during its first application can also make it challenging to re-adhere strongly. For critical projects where a reliable hold is paramount, using a new gaffer tape is recommended. Remember to always clean and dry the area before applying the tape.
4. How to Remove Gaffer Tape Residue?
Gaffer tape is known for not leaving residue. In cases where you’re left with minimal residue, the best way to remove it is to use another piece of tape. Stick a fresh, new tape on the residue, press gently for a few seconds and peel it off.
Finding the Best Gaffer Tape
When in doubt, slap some gaffer tape on it. This material has been reliable for construction workers and go-getters working on DIY projects in their garages. Look for long-lasting gaffer tape that never leaves residue behind and works with labeling tools to achieve your goals. These five selections will get you started with whatever you have in mind.
Original Publish Date 11/24/23 – Last Updated 04/29/25
About The Author
Evelyn is the founder and editor-in-chief of Renovated with over 5 years of experience immersed in researching and writing on interior design, construction, and renovation. She is a passionate advocate for improving mental health and safety in the construction industry. When she's not writing, you can find her reading at coffee shops in Lancaster.
Her insights have resonated far beyond Renovated, gracing publications like the National Association of Realtors, Construction Executive, Fieldwire, DecorMatters, and Renewable Energy Magazine.
For more sharp takes on design, construction, and everything in between, you can follow Evelyn on Twitter at @renovatedmag.
