How to fix nail holes in walls before you move out

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.

Shop the Wall Repair Kit →