How to Fix Nail Holes in Walls Before You Move Out (and Protect Your Deposit)
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The pictures are down, the boxes are packed, and now every wall has a row of little holes. Nail holes are one of the most common reasons renters lose part of a security deposit. The good news: they're one of the easiest things to fix yourself.
What you need
- Spackle (lightweight wall filler)
- A putty knife or spatula
- Fine sanding sponge
- Touch-up paint in your wall color
Or use one bottle that has all four built in: the Mr. Brushable Nail Hole Filler & Wall Repair Kit has spackle and a spatula on the side, a sanding sponge on top and touch-up paint with a roller in the base.
Step 1: Fill
Press a small amount of spackle into the hole. Scrape it flush with the wall using the spatula so there's no bump. For anchor holes, pull the anchor first, then fill.
Step 2: Let it dry and sand
Lightweight spackle dries quickly on small holes. Once dry, sand lightly with a fine sponge until you can't feel the edge with your fingertip. Wipe off the dust.
Step 3: Paint
Spackle is bright white and flat, so it shows on most walls even when it's smooth. Roll a little touch-up paint over each patch, feathering past the edges so there's no visible square.
Getting the color right
- Have leftover paint? That's the best match. Pour some into an empty touch-up bottle.
- Landlord's standard white or greige? Our kit comes in Bright White, Off-White, Antique White, Light Gray and Warm Greige.
- Not sure? Get your exact color matched from a photo.
Quick answers
Can I just use toothpaste? It shrinks, cracks and doesn't take paint well. Spackle is the right tool.
What about big holes? Small anchor and screw holes are fine. A doorknob-size hole needs a drywall patch.
Do I need to paint the whole wall? Usually not. Small, feathered touch-ups in the right color disappear.