The rear of the picture is generally a smooth surface, often hardboard and my internal walls are emulsioned and smooth (the house is in UK and only 22 years old). I am about to use them for a framed mirror on tiles in the bathroom, will let you know how that goes. Total garbage…this is a product that most likely worked in laboratory tests but in the real world just does not work, better off using nail in wall hooks…it does also state on the back of packaging …in very small print…not to be used for “antiques, heirlooms, or other valuable items…”.

Have you checked to make sure you are only using them on approved surfaces (painted, stained or varnished wood, glass, tile, painted cinder block, plaster, drywall, metal, and painted wallboard)? Leaving the frame on the wall at step 4 of the instructions means that the strips will only be partly adhered and risks the frame falling off be it hours, days, weeks or years later. The strips adhered well to the painted wooden walls; in every case, the failure was attributed to the strips attached to the varnished wooden frames (varnished wood is listed as an approved surface). Unfortunately, you can’t use them more than once, but paying a little extra for more strips beats the time it takes to patch holes. Although these steps are quick and easy, you need to have the right number of strips, make sure you place them on the frame correctly, peel off the cover, press firmly, etc.I almost gave up after two sets of strips didn’t stick but I had another pack of the small size strips which were a little wider than the frame but gave them a try and they worked! Hacking may compromise the structural integrity of the item, so please be aware of the risks involved before modifying or altering any IKEA product.

However, if you use the recommended number of strips and apply them the correct way (on approved surfaces), you should be fine. It’s of course not as safe as fixing it to the wall, but at least your consolodating the risk for a (big) part.

If your landlord is worried that you are not “professional enough” to keep from damaging the walls, you could ask if they or their maintenance person(s) could come install the wall anchor. Perhaps you know USM Haller the internationally known furniture construction system of the Swiss manufacturer USM U.

Since the strips attached to the wall and the strips attached to the frame are connected by Velcro, you can simply pull the frame off the wall and the Velcro will release.Not just for picture frames, these wall hangers are also great for creating a gallery wall, hanging college dorm decor, wooden letters, nursery décor, acoustic foam boards, and more. Experience Command™ Strips damage free hanging when it’s time to remove your pictures and frames — no nail holes or sticky residue! If you’re using four pairs, put two on the top of the side frames and two on the bottom of the side frames about 2/3rds of the way down. If you’re willing to give them another shot in the future, I’d recommend pressing the strips against the wall and letting them sit for 24 hours before attaching the picture.