What are Anchors for Drywall and Plaster?
Drywall and plaster anchors create a firm hold where there is no stud. The anchor expands or grips behind the wall so a screw can clamp your bracket, hook, or fixture without crushing the wall surface.
When should I use Drywall Anchors?
- Hanging pictures, shelves, mirrors, curtain hardware, and small cabinets
- Mounting hooks, towel bars, and light fixtures on walls or ceilings
- Situations with no stud at the mounting location
Types of Drywall and Plaster Anchors
- Self-drilling drywall anchors (plastic or metal): drive in with a screwdriver, then add the screw. Fast and convenient for light to medium loads.
- Hollow wall anchors (molly bolts): expand behind the wall as the screw is tightened. Good for medium loads and repeated removal of the screw.
- Toggles and toggle bolts (spring wing or solid strap): wings open behind the wall to spread load over a wide area. Best for heavier loads and ceiling applications.
- Plastic wall plugs: used with a pilot hole for very light loads in drywall, plaster, masonry, or tile backer.
How to choose the right Drywall Anchor
- Match the anchor style to the load and whether the screw may be removed later
- Check wall thickness and clearance behind the wall for toggles
- For plaster and lath, pre-drill clean holes and favor toggles or molly anchors that spread load
- When in doubt, use a stud or add a ledger for heavy shelves or TVs
Installation basics for Drywall Anchors
- Self-drilling: drive the anchor flush, then drive the screw until snug
- Hollow wall anchors: drill the pilot, insert the anchor, tighten until the collar pulls snug, then add the screw
- Toggles: drill the specified hole, fold and insert the wings, pull the strap or hold tension, then tighten the screw
- Do not overtighten. Stop when the fixture is secure and the surface is not crushed
Materials and finishes
Plastic (nylon)
Non-conductive and corrosion resistant for light loads. Easy to install.
Zinc plated steel
General purpose strength for medium to heavier loads.
Stainless steel hardware
Improved corrosion resistance for damp rooms and bath areas when available.
Load guidance and wall limits
- Anchor strength depends on wall thickness, condition, and spacing from edges
- Use multiple anchors to spread load on long shelves or rails
- Ceiling installs should use toggles and lighter loads unless a joist can be used
Toggle bolts vs hollow wall anchors vs self-drilling
Toggles carry the most load and are best when you can drill a larger hole. Hollow wall anchors are reliable for medium loads and allow screw removal and re-installation. Self-drilling anchors are fastest for light to medium loads where convenience matters.
FAQs about Anchors for Drywall and Plaster
Quick answers to common sizing and install questions so you can pick the right anchor and get a solid hold.
- Which drywall anchor should I use for shelves?
For short, light shelves use metal self-drilling anchors or molly anchors. For deeper shelves or heavier loads, use toggle bolts and, when possible, tie into at least one stud.
- Do drywall anchors work in plaster walls?
Yes. Pre-drill clean holes through plaster and lath, then use toggle bolts or hollow wall anchors that spread load behind the wall.
- How much weight can a drywall anchor hold?
It varies by anchor type and wall condition. Self-drilling styles handle lighter loads, molly anchors handle medium loads, and toggles handle the most. Always follow the product’s rated working load.
- Can I remove the screw and reuse the anchor?
Molly anchors and toggles with machine screws usually allow screw removal. Many light plastic anchors may not hold well if reused.
- What size hole do I drill for a toggle bolt?
Drill the hole size shown on the package for the toggle diameter. The hole must be large enough for the folded wings to pass through.
- Why is my anchor spinning in the wall?
The hole may be oversized or the wall face is crumbling. Use a larger anchor, switch to a toggle, or move to a sound section of wall.
- Can I use drywall anchors in the ceiling?
Only for light loads and with toggles. For heavy items, locate and fasten to a ceiling joist.
- Should I pre-drill for self-drilling anchors?
Not usually. If the paper tears or the wall is very hard, a small pilot can help start the anchor straight.