🪝 Hangers in House & Garden Calculator
Choose the right hanger • Size & capacity guide • 7 types for home & garden
| Hanger Type | Location | Typical Size | Load Capacity | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 👕 Clothes Hanger | Closet, Bedroom, Laundry | Adult: 16-18", Heavy coat: 17-19", Kids: 10-14" | 1-5 lbs per hanger | Shirts, coats, suits, dresses, uniforms |
| 🪝 Wall Coat & Key Hook | Entryway, Hallway, Kitchen | Single: 2-5", Rack: 12-36" wide | 2-10 lbs per hook | Bags, coats, hats, keys, scarves |
| 🚿 Bathroom Towel Hanger | Bathroom, Laundry Room | Bar: 18-30", Ring: 6-8" dia, Hook: 2-4" | 3-8 lbs per hanger | Towels, bathrobes, wash cloths |
| 🚪 Over-the-Door Hanger | Bedroom, Bathroom, Entryway | Width: 12-24", Hooks: 4-12 | 10-30 lbs total | Extra storage without wall drilling |
| 🪴 Plant Hanger | Patio, Garden, Indoor | Small: 6-8", Medium: 8-12", Large: 12-16"+, Bracket: 8-18" | 3-15 lbs per hanger | Flower pots, trailing plants, hanging baskets |
| 🔨 Tool Hanger | Garage, Shed, Workshop | Hook: 4-12", Rack: 16-36" wide | 5-50 lbs per hook | Shovels, rakes, hoses, ladders, tools |
| 🐦 Bird Feeder & Lantern Hanger | Garden, Patio, Yard | Stand height: 48-84", Bracket: 8-16" | 2-15 lbs per hanger | Bird feeders, lanterns, wind chimes, decorative items |
Hangers in House & Garden
The Complete Types, Sizes & Uses Guide
Indoor · Garden · Construction · Automotive · Specialty · 500+ Keywords Covered
The Definitive Homeowner, Builder & Content Creator Reference — 2025 / 2026 Edition
A hanger is any device — hook, bracket, rod, clip, rack, or frame — designed to suspend, support, or organise an object by hanging. Hangers appear in virtually every area of home and garden life: from the humble clothes hanger in a wardrobe to the structural joist hanger in a deck, from the macramé plant hanger on a porch to the exhaust hanger beneath a car, from the gutter hanger on a roofline to the derailleur hanger on a bicycle. This guide is the most comprehensive single reference for every major hanger type used in the house, garden, garage, and beyond — covering types, sizes, dimensions, materials, uses, and a complete buying guide for each category.
1. Master Overview — All Major Hanger Categories
The word ‘hanger’ spans an enormous range of products across every area of home, garden, construction, and lifestyle. The table below maps every major category covered in this guide.
Category | Sub-Type Examples | Location | Key Size Range |
Clothes Hangers | Wooden, plastic, velvet, wire, padded, kids | Wardrobe, closet | 10 – 19 inches wide |
Wall Coat & Key Hangers | Single hook, multi-hook rack, shelf with hooks | Hallway, entryway | 2 – 36 inches |
Bathroom Towel Hangers | Towel bar, towel ring, over-door, hook | Bathroom | 6 – 30 inches |
Over-the-Door Hangers | 4–12 hook OTD organiser, ironing board hanger | Any door | 12 – 24 inches wide |
Picture & Frame Hangers | Sawtooth, D-ring, picture wire, bullnose, cleat | Any wall | 1 – 12 inches |
Plant Hangers | Macramé, metal bracket, ceiling hook, wall bracket | Garden, porch, greenhouse | 6 – 18 inches bracket |
Tool Hangers | Single hook, pegboard, rail system, multi-rack | Garage, garden shed | 4 – 36 inches |
Bird Feeder Hangers | Shepherd’s hook, wall bracket, decorative stand | Garden | 8 – 84 inches |
Joist Hangers | Standard, concealed, skewed, LVL, double, truss | Construction, deck, roof | 2×4 to triple LVL |
Pipe & Conduit Hangers | Clevis, split ring, U-bolt, trapeze, conduit clamp | Plumbing, HVAC, electrical | ½” – 6″ pipe diameter |
Gutter Hangers | Spike, strap, hidden, half-round, K-style | Roofline | Spacing: 24″ – 36″ |
Exhaust Hangers | Rubber isolator, stainless strap, clamp hanger | Vehicle underside | 1″ – 5″ diameter |
Derailleur Hangers | Shimano, SRAM UDH, universal, brand-specific | Bicycle frame | Frame-specific alignment |
Guitar Hangers | Wall mount, horizontal, Hercules, string swing | Home, studio, stage | Standard guitar neck width |
Bow Hangers | Tree strap, wall mount, truck hanger, saddle type | Hunting, archery | 6 – 18 inches |
Medal Hangers | Marathon, sports, custom, wooden, wall-mount | Home, trophy room | 12 – 36 inches display |
Door Hangers | Decorative seasonal, commercial, do-not-disturb | Any door | 3.5 × 8.5 to 4.25 × 11 inches |
Automotive Misc. | Mud flap hanger, leaf spring hanger, brake caliper | Vehicle chassis | Vehicle-specific |
🏠 A. Indoor House Hangers
Indoor hangers form the backbone of home organisation — from the clothes hanger in every wardrobe to the towel bar in every bathroom. Understanding the full range of indoor hanger types, their standard dimensions, and the right hanger for each use case transforms both storage efficiency and interior presentation.
- 👔 Clothes Hangers — Types, Sizes & Dimensions
The clothes hanger is the most universally used hanger type in the world. Every household has them; few people think deeply about which type is optimal for different garments. The right hanger prevents fabric distortion, maximises closet space, and protects garments from misshaping over time.
Clothes Hanger Types
Type | Material | Best For | Key Advantage | Key Limitation |
Wooden hanger | Solid wood (cedar, birch, walnut) | Suits, blazers, coats, leather jackets | Maintains shoulder shape; cedar deters moths | Bulkier; takes more closet rod space |
Plastic hanger | Polypropylene / ABS plastic | Everyday shirts, dresses, casual wear | Lightweight; inexpensive; wide colour range | Can crease shoulders; less durable |
Velvet hanger | Plastic frame with velvet flocking | All garments — especially slippery fabrics | Non-slip surface; ultra-slim; saves space | Lint attraction; not suitable for very heavy coats |
Metal / wire hanger | Galvanised or chrome steel wire | Dry cleaning returns; light clothing only | Extremely lightweight; minimal cost | Distorts shoulders; rusts; not suitable for quality garments |
Padded hanger | Fabric-covered foam or card padding | Delicate fabrics: silk, satin, lingerie | Protects fabric surface; gentle on straps | Bulky; not suited to heavy items |
Kids hanger | Plastic or thin wood | Children’s clothes (age 0–12) | Sized to children’s proportions | Outgrown as child grows |
Kilt / pant hanger | Wood or metal with locking bar or clips | Trousers, kilts, wide-leg pants | Clamp or bar prevents fold creases | Can clip-mark delicate fabrics |
Bridal / wedding dress hanger | Padded fabric or personalised wood | Wedding gowns, formal dresses | Display-quality; often personalised | Decorative rather than functional long-term |
Standard Clothes Hanger Sizes & Dimensions
Hanger Category | Width | Shoulder Notch Depth | Hook Height | Standard Hook Gauge |
Adult standard (shirts, dresses) | 16 – 17 inches (40 – 43 cm) | 1 – 1.5 inches | 2.5 – 3 inches | 4 – 5 mm |
Adult wide-shoulder (suits, coats) | 17 – 18 inches (43 – 46 cm) | 1.5 – 2 inches | 2.5 – 3 inches | 5 – 6 mm |
Heavy coat hanger | 17 – 19 inches (43 – 48 cm) | 2 – 2.5 inches | 3 – 3.5 inches | 6 – 8 mm |
Kids hanger (age 2–7) | 10 – 12 inches (25 – 30 cm) | 0.5 – 1 inch | 1.5 – 2 inches | 3 – 4 mm |
Kids hanger (age 8–14) | 12 – 14 inches (30 – 36 cm) | 1 – 1.5 inches | 2 – 2.5 inches | 4 mm |
Slim velvet hanger | 16 – 17 inches | 0.5 – 1 inch | 2 – 2.5 inches | 5 mm |
Wire hanger (dry cleaning) | 16 – 17 inches | Minimal — wire | 2 inches | 12 – 14 gauge wire |
Bridal gown hanger | 17 – 20 inches | 2 – 3 inches | 3 – 4 inches | 6 – 8 mm |
🏠 The standard adult clothes hanger is 17 inches (43 cm) wide — this is the universal size that fits most adult clothing and standard closet rods. Standard hanger hook diameter fits a 12–16 mm closet rod. A closet rod hanger height of 66–72 inches from the floor is the ADA-recommended height for accessible clothing storage.
How Wide Is a Standard Hanger?
- Standard adult hanger width: 16 to 17 inches (40 to 43 cm) — fits shirts, blouses, and everyday garments
- Wide coat hanger width: 17 to 19 inches (43 to 48 cm) — needed for structured suit shoulders and heavy outerwear
- Slim velvet hanger width: 16 to 17 inches — same width as standard but only 5 to 7 mm thick versus 12 to 15 mm for standard plastic
- Wire hanger width: 16 to 17 inches — same span but far less shoulder support
- Kids hanger width: 10 to 14 inches depending on age range
- Clothes hanger depth (front to back): 4 to 6 inches for standard; up to 8 inches for padded coat hangers
- 🧥 Wall-Mounted Coat & Key Hangers
Wall-mounted coat and key hangers are fixed to a wall surface — typically in a hallway, entryway, mudroom, or near a doorway — to organise frequently used items: coats, bags, hats, scarves, keys, and dog leads. They range from a single decorative hook to a full shelf-and-hook assembly spanning an entire hallway wall.
Wall-Mounted Hanger Types & Sizes
Type | Typical Width | Load Per Hook | Best Application | Common Materials |
Single hook | 2 – 5 inches | 5 – 15 lbs | Keys, single bag, one coat | Brass, cast iron, chrome, ceramic |
Double hook | 3 – 6 inches | 10 – 25 lbs | Two items per hook position | Steel, iron, chrome |
Small multi-hook rack | 12 – 18 inches | 5–10 lbs/hook | Hallway entry: coats, hats, bags | Wood + metal, iron, shaker peg rail |
Large multi-hook rack | 24 – 36 inches | 5–15 lbs/hook | Full coat storage for family | Solid wood rail, cast iron, steel |
Shelf with hooks below | 18 – 48 inches | 10 lbs/hook | Keys + mail shelf + coat hooks | Solid wood, MDF with metal hooks |
Decorative key hanger | 8 – 16 inches | 2 – 5 lbs | Keys, small items only | Ceramic, wood, novelty materials |
Shaker peg rail | 18 – 72 inches+ | 5–10 lbs/peg | Coats, bags, scarves — Shaker style | Solid wood (maple, oak, pine) |
ADA-compliant coat hook | Single or rack | Per spec | Accessible height 48″ max AFF | Any — must meet ADA reach range |
- Standard coat hook mounting height: 60 to 72 inches from floor for adults; 48 inches maximum for ADA accessible hooks (ADA coat hanger height standard)
- Key hanger placement: typically 12 to 18 inches above a console table or 60 inches from floor as a standalone feature
- Hook spacing on a rack: 4 to 6 inches between hooks allows coats to hang without overlap
💡 For maximum versatility, mount a shelf-with-hooks unit (18–36 inches wide) at hallway entry. The shelf holds keys, post, and small items; the hooks below handle coats, bags, and scarves. This replaces four separate fittings with one clean assembly.
- 🛁 Bathroom Towel Hangers
Bathroom towel hangers must balance function, hygiene (towels must dry properly between uses), aesthetics, and durability in a high-humidity environment. The four main types — towel bar, towel ring, over-door hanger, and hook-style hanger — each serve distinct bathroom configurations.
Bathroom Towel Hanger Types & Sizes
Type | Size Range | Load Capacity | Best For | Mounting Method |
Towel bar (standard) | 18 – 24 inches | 1–2 full-size bath towels | Most common residential bathroom | Wall screw through bar end brackets |
Towel bar (large) | 24 – 30 inches | 2–3 bath towels | Larger bathrooms, master suite | As above |
Double towel bar | 18 – 24 inches | 2 towels (stacked) | Two people sharing one bar | Two-tier bar bracket |
Towel ring | 6 – 8 inch dia. | 1 hand towel | Beside basin — hand towel access | Single wall bracket behind ring |
Over-the-door towel hanger | Fits 1–2″ door | 2–4 towels | No-drill solution for any door | Hooks over door top — no fixing |
Hook-style towel hanger | 2 – 4 inches each | 1 towel or robe per hook | Back of door, shower cubicle, wall | Single screw or adhesive |
Towel hanger for clawfoot tub | Clamps to rim | 1–2 towels | Clawfoot or freestanding tubs | Clamp attachment — no drilling |
Poolside / outdoor towel hanger | 18–36 inches | 2–4 towels | Pool surround, outdoor shower | Post mount or wall fixed |
- Towel bar height: 48 inches from floor (adult standard); ADA recommends 33 to 48 inches for accessible bathrooms
- Towel hanger material in high-humidity environments: brushed stainless steel and chrome are the most durable; powder-coated steel is acceptable; avoid chrome-plated zinc in constantly wet areas
- Towel hanger spacing from shower or bath edge: minimum 6 inches to prevent towel contact with water splash zone
- 🚪 Over-the-Door Hangers
Over-the-door (OTD) hangers provide instant additional storage without drilling, making them ideal for rented properties, temporary organisation, or rooms where wall damage must be avoided. They hook over a standard door and utilise the otherwise wasted door space.
Over-the-Door Hanger Sizes & Types
Type | Width | Number of Hooks | Load Capacity | Best Use |
Basic OTD hook | 12 – 16 inches | 1 – 4 hooks | 5 – 15 lbs per hook | Single coat, robe, or towel |
Multi-hook OTD rack | 14 – 24 inches | 6 – 12 hooks | 3 – 8 lbs per hook | Bathroom: towels, robes; Bedroom: accessories |
OTD shoe organiser | 12 – 16 inches | 16 – 24 pockets | 2–3 lbs per pocket | Shoe storage; craft supplies |
OTD ironing board hanger | Ironing board width | 1 board | Up to 10 lbs | Storing fold-down ironing board on door |
OTD towel bar | 18 – 24 inches | Bar (not hooks) | 2–3 towels | Bathroom or utility room towel drying |
OTD quilt / blanket hanger | 18 – 30 inches | 2 – 4 hooks | 5 – 15 lbs | Bedroom: quilt storage and display |
OTD garland hanger | Adjustable | Tension arms | Light garland weight | Seasonal door decoration without drilling |
ℹ️ Over-the-door hangers work on doors 1 to 2 inches thick. Before buying, check the door thickness and whether the door has a frame that prevents the hanger from lying flat — a recessed frame may gap the hanger away from the door surface.
- 🖼 Picture & Frame Hangers
Picture hangers are among the most frequently searched hanger types — and the most frequently installed incorrectly. The right picture hanger matches the frame weight, wall material, and desired aesthetic. Using the wrong hanger is the leading cause of pictures falling and wall damage.
Picture Hanger Types & Load Ratings
Type | Max Load | Wall Type | How It Works | Key Keyword |
Sawtooth hanger | Up to 20 lbs | Drywall, wood | Metal strip with serrated teeth nailed to frame back; hangs on nail | sawtooth hanger for picture frame |
D-ring hanger | Up to 50 lbs | Any | D-shaped ring screwed to frame back; hung on screw or nail | picture hanger d ring |
Picture wire + D-ring | Up to 100 lbs | Any | Wire stretched between two D-rings; hung on two wall hooks | picture hanger wire |
Bullnose hanger | Up to 40 lbs | Drywall | Keyhole-shaped flush wall plate; mirror or frame locks on | bullnose hanger for mirror |
French cleat hanger | 100 – 500+ lbs | Stud wall | 45° angled interlocking cleat pair; extremely strong | french cleat hanger heavy duty |
Adhesive disc / plate hanger | Up to 30 lbs | Any smooth | Adhesive disc sticks to back of plate or object | adhesive disk plate hanger |
Magnetic poster hanger | Light weight | Any | Two magnetic bars clamp top and bottom of poster/textile | magnetic poster hanger |
Sawtooth hanger with level | Up to 20 lbs | Drywall | Sawtooth plate with built-in spirit level for precise hanging | picture hanger with level |
No-stud drywall hanger | Up to 75 lbs | Drywall only | Toggle bolt or wall anchor spreads load inside cavity | no stud drywall picture hanger |
Cleat picture hanger | Up to 80 lbs | Stud or solid | Interlocking cleat — cleaner than French cleat for lighter loads | picture hanger cleat |
- How does a sawtooth hanger work: a serrated metal strip is nailed horizontally to the back of a frame near the top; the frame then hangs on a nail driven at a downward angle into the wall, with the nail catching one of the sawtooth serrations
- Sawtooth hanger nails: use ring-shank or screw-type nails at 45° into the wall for sawtooth hangers — standard smooth nails pull out more easily
- Picture hanger wire: galvanised steel picture wire is rated in gauges; 20-gauge wire handles up to 20 lbs; 16-gauge handles up to 50 lbs; always use the wire gauge appropriate to your frame weight
- Magnetic poster hanger / wooden poster hanger: two thin bars (wood, metal, or magnetic) clamp the top and bottom edges of a poster, print, or textile; the top bar has a hanging wire or cord
- ✨ Decorative & Specialty Indoor Hangers
Item | Hanger Type | Common Size | Notes |
Quilt wall hanger | Wooden quilt hanger with dowel | 24 – 48 inches wide | Knobless compression or clamp style; mounts quilt without damage |
Wetsuit hanger | Wide-shoulder padded / C-Monsta | Fits wetsuit shoulders | Extra-wide profile prevents shoulder fold; dryer variant with airflow |
Yoga mat hanger | Wall mount hook or floor stand | 12 – 18 inch wall mount | Single hook or roll bar; yoga mat hanger wall mount saves floor space |
Rattan wall hanger | Decorative woven shelf | 12 – 24 inches | Bohemian aesthetic; holds plants, objects, artworks |
Headphone / headset hanger | Under-desk or standalone | Adhesive or stand mount | Under desk headphone hanger keeps desk surface clear |
Stocking hanger | Mantel stocking hanger / tree | 4–8 inches per hook | Christmas stocking hanger — weighted base for mantel use without drilling |
Wetsuit coat hanger | Wide moulded plastic shoulder | Extra wide | Shaped to retain wetsuit chest shape; prevents fold at neoprene |
Horse blanket hanger | Wall bracket or saddle hanger | 24 – 36 inches | Barn / tack room; rated for blanket weight including wet wool |
Lead apron / x-ray gown hanger | Wall bracket or stand | Wide frame | Radiography; must fully support lead-lined garment to prevent lining damage |
Tapestry / rug wall hanger | Wooden rod + hanging cord | Custom to piece | Clamp hanger or channel rod with mounting screws at each end |
🌿 B. Garden Hangers
- 🪴 Plant Hangers & Hanging Basket Brackets
Plant hangers suspend flowering and trailing plants at eye level or above, creating vertical garden interest on walls, fences, pergolas, porches, and patios. They range from the traditional wire hanging basket to the handmade macramé rope hanger to the heavy-duty wrought iron wall bracket.
Plant Hanger Types & Sizes
Type | Bracket / Support Size | Max Load | Best Plant Type | Material |
Macramé rope hanger | 6 – 18 inches support length | 3 – 10 lbs | Small to medium pots; trailing plants | Cotton, jute, or nylon rope |
Metal wall bracket | 8 – 18 inch bracket length | 5 – 30 lbs | Hanging baskets; window boxes | Galvanised or powder-coated steel |
Ceiling hook hanger | Hook + chain length variable | 5 – 25 lbs | Indoor hanging plants; ferns; orchids | Steel hook + chain or cord |
Metal hanging basket | 12 – 16 inch diameter | 5 – 15 lbs | Flowering annuals; trailing ivies | Galvanised or coated wire |
Wrought iron plant hanger | 10 – 24 inch arm | 10 – 30 lbs | Heavy terracotta hanging pots | Wrought iron — very durable outdoors |
Swivel plant hanger | Pot size dependent | 5 – 20 lbs | Any pot — allows rotation for even sun | Swivel bearing + hook assembly |
Deck railing plant hanger | Fits 1.5–3.5″ railing | 5 – 15 lbs | Railing-mounted pots and baskets | Steel or aluminium clamp |
Macramé large / oversized | 18 – 36 inch length | 10 – 25 lbs | Large pots; 8–14 inch diameter pots | Thick cotton braid or jute |
Macramé Plant Hanger Guide
- Macramé plant hangers are handmade or kit-made rope suspensions — the most popular DIY hanger project worldwide
- Macramé plant hanger kit: typically includes 30 to 60 metres of cotton macramé rope (3 mm to 5 mm diameter), wooden ring, and instructions
- Macramé rope for plant hanger: 3 mm rope suits hangers for pots up to 6 inches; 5 mm rope for pots 6 to 10 inches; 8 mm rope for large hanging pots
- Large macramé plant hanger: typically 36 to 60 cm in length, designed for 8 to 12 inch pots; uses 4 to 8 rope lengths of 4 to 5 metres each
- Vintage macramé plant hanger patterns: the 1970s macramé revival (70s macramé plant hanger) produced the classic knotted hemp designs that remain popular today
🌿 For outdoor plant bracket hangers, always choose hot-dip galvanised or powder-coated brackets — plain steel brackets rust quickly in rain and humid conditions, weakening the bracket and risking pot falls.
- 🛠 Garden Tool Hangers
Garden tool hangers organise shovels, rakes, hoes, forks, hoses, ladders, and power tools in a garden shed, garage, or outbuilding. The right tool hanger system transforms a chaotic garden shed into an efficient, safe workspace where every tool is visible, accessible, and off the floor.
Garden Tool Hanger Types & Sizes
Type | Size | Load Per Hook | Best Tools | Notes |
Single heavy-duty hook | 4 – 8 inch reach | 10 – 30 lbs | Rakes, spades, hoes, ladders | Screw into wall stud or masonry for maximum load |
Multi-tool rack | 16 – 36 inch width | 5 – 15 lbs/hook | Mixed tools; 4–8 tools per rack | Fixed or adjustable hooks on a mounting rail |
Pegboard hook system | Standard pegboard | 2 – 15 lbs each | Hand tools, small power tools | Hook spacing follows 1″ pegboard grid — extremely versatile |
Rail hanger system | Wall rail, 24–72 inch | 8 – 25 lbs/hook | All garden tools + accessories | Hooks slide along rail — fully adjustable without re-drilling |
Ladder hanger (wall) | 18 – 24 inch arm | 40 – 80 lbs | Extension ladders, step ladders | Rated specifically for ladder weight; mounted to studs |
Hose hanger | 12 – 18 inch diameter | 15 – 25 lbs reel | Garden hose (up to 100ft) | Wall-mounted; also available with integrated faucet mount |
Chainsaw hanger | Single hook, 6″ | 15 – 20 lbs | Chainsaw — by handle or bar guard | Keep chainsaw chain clear of other tools for safety |
Kayak / canoe garage hanger | 24 – 36 inch pair | 50 – 80 lbs | Kayak, canoe, SUP board | Ceiling or wall mount; padded to protect hull |
- Hose hanger with faucet: combined wall-mount hose hanger with integrated second tap outlet — wraps the hose neatly and connects directly to the outdoor tap
- Suncast hose hanger and yard butler hose hanger: popular branded wall-mount hose storage options rated for 75 to 100 ft of standard hose
- Bike hanger ceiling and indoor bike hanger: stores bicycles horizontally (ceiling pulley system) or vertically (wall hook) — significantly reduces floor footprint in garage storage
- 🐦 Bird Feeder, Lantern & Shepherd’s Hook Hangers
Garden hanging accessories — bird feeders, lanterns, wind chimes, and hanging planters — require dedicated hanger solutions that can support their weight safely, position them at the correct height, and withstand outdoor conditions year-round.
Bird Feeder & Garden Hanger Types & Sizes
Type | Height / Length | Load Capacity | Best Use | Notes |
Shepherd’s hook (single) | 48 – 60 inches | 5 – 15 lbs | Bird feeder, hanging lantern, small basket | Single curved hook at top; ground-spike base |
Shepherd’s hook (double arm) | 60 – 72 inches | 5 – 10 lbs each arm | Two bird feeders or feeder + planter | Two horizontal arms at different heights |
Shepherd’s hook (heavy duty) | 72 – 84 inches | 20 – 40 lbs | Heavy basket, large feeder, sign | Thicker gauge steel; wider base stake |
Wall bracket bird feeder hanger | 8 – 16 inch arm | 5 – 20 lbs | Fixed wall mounting for feeders/lanterns | Screws to wall, fence, or post |
Deck rail bird feeder hanger | Clamp + 8–14″ arm | 5 – 15 lbs | Deck railing bird feeder without drilling | Adjustable clamp fits 1.5″ to 3.5″ railings |
Lantern wall hanger | 8 – 14 inch arm | 5 – 15 lbs | Outdoor lanterns, wind chimes | Ornate iron versions for period/cottage style |
Tree hanger (screw hook) | 4 – 8 inch hook | 10 – 25 lbs | Bird feeder from tree branch | Screw-in eye bolt; check tree health before use |
Hummingbird feeder hanger | 12 – 24 inch pole | Under 2 lbs | Hummingbird feeders — low weight only | Window-mount or shepherd’s hook both work |
- Shepherd’s hook spacing: when using multiple shepherd’s hooks for bird feeders, space them at least 5 feet apart to allow birds to approach from different directions without conflict
- Lantern hanger pole: a freestanding pole with multiple arms at different heights can support lanterns, hanging baskets, and bird feeders simultaneously
- Window bird feeder hanger: suction cup-mounted arm that attaches a feeder directly to a window pane — load-rated for small seed feeders under 2 lbs only
🏗 C. Construction & Structural Hangers
- 🔩 Joist Hangers
Joist hangers are galvanised steel structural connectors that support the end of a floor joist, roof rafter, deck joist, or stair stringer where it meets a header, beam, or ledger board. They are engineered, tested, and certified structural components — not commodity hardware — and their installation is governed by building codes in most jurisdictions. Using the correct joist hanger nail is as important as the hanger itself; substituting different fasteners voids the load rating.
Joist Hanger Types & Sizes
Type | Lumber Size | Download Rating (typical) | Common Model | Application |
Standard face-mount hanger | 2×4, 2×6, 2×8, 2×10, 2×12 | 1,200 – 2,500 lbs | LUS24/26/28/210/212 | Floor joists, deck joists, general framing |
Top flange joist hanger | 2×6 to 2×10 | 1,500 – 2,200 lbs | LTS / HHU series | Top-mounted — installs before joist is set |
Concealed / hidden joist hanger | 2×6 to 2×12 | 1,000 – 2,000 lbs | LSSJ / IUS series | Flush soffit — no visible hardware below joist |
Skewed joist hanger | 2×4 to 2×10 | 800 – 1,800 lbs | LSU45 / LSK series | Non-90° framing connections — decks with angled bays |
Adjustable joist hanger | 2×4 to 2×10 | 800 – 1,500 lbs | MIU / MBA series | Field-adjustable angle — complex framing |
I-joist hanger | 9.5″ to 14″ I-joist | 1,500 – 3,000 lbs | ITS / HIT series | Engineered I-joist floor systems |
Double joist hanger | Double 2×4 to 2×12 | 2,000 – 4,000 lbs | LSSU/HHUS series | Carrying beams and heavy double-joist loads |
LVL / glulam hanger | 3.5″ to 7″ beam width | 3,000 – 8,000 lbs | HUS / BEAM series | Engineered lumber beams — high-load spans |
Truss hanger | Truss chord size | 2,000 – 5,000 lbs | HTU / THA series | Roof trusses at bearing walls |
Stair stringer hanger | 2×10, 2×12 | 2,000 – 3,500 lbs | LSSA / SSTB | Stair stringers to header — concealed or face-mount |
Rafter hanger (sloped) | 2×4 to 2×10 | 800 – 1,800 lbs | LRUZ / LRU series | Sloped roof rafter connections |
Concrete/masonry joist hanger | 2×6 to 2×12 | 1,200 – 2,500 lbs | MHHC / MBH series | Joist to concrete or masonry wall — uses masonry anchors |
Joist Hanger Fasteners — Critical Reference
Fastener Type | Standard Code | Used With | Critical Note |
Joist hanger nails (short/fat) | 10d × 1.5″ or 1.5″ × 0.148″ | All face-mount joist hangers | NEVER substitute with standard 10d common nails — hanger nails are shorter and thicker to prevent splitting |
Joist hanger nails for nail gun | Same spec — gun-compatible | Joist hanger nailer | Use a dedicated joist hanger nailer or palm nailer — standard framing gun nails are wrong spec |
Simpson Strong-Tie screws | SDS, SD, LBV series | Concealed hangers; LVL hangers | Higher shear strength than nails for some applications — use only specified screws |
Joist hanger nails vs screws | Screws permitted for some models | Check manufacturer spec | Never use drywall screws — brittle and shear-prone under joist load |
ℹ️ The Simpson Strong-Tie joist hanger system is the most widely specified brand in North America. Model reference: LUS = Light Universal Series; HUS = Heavy Universal Series; LSSU = Light Skewable Sloped Universal; HUC = Heavy Universal Concealed. Always check the current catalog for updated load tables.
- 🔧 Pipe & Conduit Hangers
Pipe and conduit hangers secure plumbing pipes, electrical conduit, HVAC ductwork, and process piping to structural building members. They prevent pipe movement, vibration transmission, thermal expansion damage, and structural stress on joints.
Pipe Hanger Types & Sizes
Type | Pipe Diameter Range | Application | Standard |
Clevis hanger | ½” – 6″ | Plumbing and process piping — adjustable rod length | Most common adjustable pipe hanger — pairs with threaded rod |
Split ring hanger | ½” – 4″ | Light-duty plumbing, copper, CPVC | Two-part ring snaps closed around pipe — tool-free install |
U-bolt / U-clamp | ½” – 6″ | Securing pipe to structural member directly | Fixed — no rod; direct wall or beam mounting |
Trapeze hanger | Multiple pipes | Two or more pipes on one crossbar suspended by two rods | Trapeze pipe hanger most efficient for multi-pipe runs |
Spring hanger | Variable | Piping subject to thermal movement or vibration | Spring isolator hanger absorbs vibration; variable spring hanger accommodates load changes |
Conduit clamp / hanger | ½” – 4″ EMT/IMC/RGC | Electrical conduit to ceiling or wall | EMT conduit hanger: ½”, ¾”, 1″, 1¼”, 1½”, 2″, 2½”, 3″, 4″ |
Copper pipe hanger (bell) | ½” – 2″ | Copper domestic pipework — prevents electrolytic corrosion | Copper bell hanger — insulating liner prevents copper-to-steel contact |
All-thread / threaded rod hanger | Any | Suspends pipe from ceiling or structural member via rod | 3/8″ and ½” rod most common; rod hanger clamp locks pipe to rod |
Seismic hanger | Variable | Seismic bracing for piping in earthquake zones | NFPA 13 hanger spacing chart defines seismic bracing intervals |
Insulation hanger | Any insulated pipe | Protects pipe insulation from compression at support point | Saddle-type — distributes load across insulation surface |
Pipe Hanger Spacing Reference
Pipe Material | Max Hanger Spacing (horizontal runs) | Vertical Runs | Notes |
Copper pipe (½” – 1″) | 6 feet (1.8 m) | Every 10 feet | Copper pipe hanger spacing per IPC; bell hangers preferred |
Copper pipe (1¼” – 2″) | 8 feet (2.4 m) | Every 10 feet | Larger diameter allows longer spans |
CPVC pipe | 3 feet (0.9 m) | Every 5 feet | CPVC hanger spacing tighter — material is less rigid than copper |
PVC pipe (drain, ½” – 2″) | 4 feet (1.2 m) | Every 4 feet | PVC conduit hanger spacing per NFPA 70 |
Steel / black iron pipe | 10 – 12 feet | Every 15 feet | Heaviest — needs secure stud or beam fixing |
EMT conduit (½” – 1″) | 10 feet (3 m) | Every 10 feet | NEC conduit hanger spacing: within 3 feet of each junction box |
Flex duct (HVAC) | 4 feet (1.2 m) | N/A | HVAC duct hanger strap every 4 feet; no sag between hangers |
Copper pipe near boiler (hot) | Every 6 feet | Every 8 feet | Thermal expansion requires expansion loops or flexible hanger spacing |
- 🏚 Gutter Hangers
Gutter hangers — also called gutter brackets or gutter supports — secure the gutter channel to the fascia board along a roof eave. They must support the gutter’s own weight plus the weight of water, debris, snow, and ice that accumulates during heavy weather events.
Gutter Hanger Types & Sizes
Type | Profile Compatibility | Spacing | Key Feature | Notes |
Hidden / concealed hanger | K-style and half-round | Every 24″ – 36″ | Screws through gutter base into fascia — invisible from outside | Best for new installation; strongest fixing method |
Spike and ferrule | K-style (legacy) | Every 24″ – 36″ | Nail spike through ferrule through gutter into fascia | Older system; spikes loosen over time — replace with screws |
Strap hanger | All profiles | Every 24″ – 36″ | Metal strap wraps over roof under shingles | Used where fascia is inadequate; gutter strap hanger over rafter tail |
K-style bracket | K-style gutter | Every 24″ | Fixed angle bracket matches K-gutter profile | Most common in North America for 5″ and 6″ K-style |
Half-round bracket | Half-round gutter | Every 24″ – 30″ | Curved jaw brackets for European-style half-round | Half round gutter hanger available in aluminium or steel |
Rain gutter hanger screws | All — screw type | Every 24″ | Hex-head screw replaces spike in existing gutter | Rain gutter hanger spacing: 24″ standard; 16″ in heavy snow areas |
Continuous / Alurex hanger | K-style | Continuous | Full-length support rail eliminates individual spacing | Alu Rex continuous hanger — maximum support against ice loads |
- Gutter hanger spacing: standard spacing is 24 inches for moderate climates; reduce to 16 inches in areas with heavy snow load or ice dams
- Hidden gutter hanger installation: uses a long screw (typically 2 to 2.5 inches) that penetrates through the front gutter lip, through a concealed ferrule inside, and into the fascia — far stronger than spike systems
- 5-inch gutter hanger spacing: the same 24-inch rule applies for 5-inch K-style; for a 20-foot run, you need a minimum of 10 hangers
🚗 D. Automotive & Mechanical Hangers
- 🔇 Exhaust & Muffler Hangers
Exhaust hangers — also called muffler hangers, rubber exhaust hangers, or exhaust muffler hangers — secure the exhaust system to the underside of a vehicle’s chassis. They are typically made of rubber to isolate exhaust vibration from the vehicle body and allow for thermal expansion of hot exhaust pipes.
Type | Pipe Size | Material | Replacement Indicator | Notes |
Rubber exhaust hanger (universal) | 1″ – 3.5″ | EPDM rubber | Cracking, splitting, or sagging exhaust | Universal exhaust rubber hanger — 2 or 4-hole; cut to fit |
Stainless steel exhaust hanger | Custom | 304 or 316 stainless | Rust-through of original unit | Exhaust hanger stainless — for performance / fabrication |
Exhaust clamp with hanger | 2″ – 5″ | Steel with rubber | Exhaust rattle or position change | Combined clamp and hanger isolator in one piece |
Muffler strap hanger | Universal | Steel strap + rubber | Broken or sagging muffler | Muffler hanger strap — budget repair option |
Exhaust hanger bracket (weld-on) | Custom | Mild steel or SS | Custom exhaust fabrication | Weld on exhaust hanger — for custom exhaust routing |
Exhaust bushing hanger | Variable | Polyurethane or rubber | OEM rubber deterioration | Polyurethane bushings outlast rubber — firmer ride |
- Rubber exhaust hanger: the most commonly replaced exhaust component — typically fails every 3 to 7 years depending on climate and road salt exposure
- How to check if exhaust hanger needs replacing: grasp the muffler and move it side to side — more than 1 inch of movement indicates a failed hanger
- Universal exhaust hanger: available in 2-hole and 4-hole versions for 2″ to 4″ pipe; use high-temperature exhaust hanger removal pliers for removal of fused rubber hangers
- 🚲 Bicycle Derailleur Hangers
The derailleur hanger — also called a gear hanger, mech hanger, or dropout hanger — is a small metal plate that connects the rear derailleur to the bicycle frame. It is deliberately designed as a sacrificial component: if the derailleur is struck or bent, the hanger bends or breaks instead of the far more expensive frame dropout. Every bicycle frame uses a unique hanger shape.
Standard | Compatibility | Thread | Notes |
SRAM UDH (Universal Derailleur Hanger) | SRAM AXS and growing range of frames | M8 × 1.0 | UDH derailleur hanger — industry standardisation effort; growing adoption 2021+ |
Shimano direct mount | Shimano Di2 and recent frames | Frame-specific | Various Shimano-direct dropout designs by year and model |
Brand-specific hanger | One frame only | M4 or M5 | Derailleur hanger finder: use brand + model + year to identify correct hanger |
Universal derailleur hanger (approximated) | Budget frames — not truly universal | Variable | Requires modification; true universal hanger does not exist — always verify fitment |
Carbon frame hanger | Carbon-fibre frames | Frame-specific | Must be manufacturer-approved; wrong hanger damages carbon dropout |
- How to tell if derailleur hanger is bent: hold the bike upright from behind and sight down the drivetrain — the rear derailleur jockey wheels should be parallel to the cassette. Any inward or outward lean indicates a bent hanger.
- Derailleur hanger alignment gauge: a precision tool (Park Tool DAG-2.2 is the most widely used) that checks hanger perpendicularity at four points around the wheel — essential for accurate gear indexing.
- Rear derailleur hanger replacement: typically requires only a 5 mm hex key; always carry a spare hanger on trail rides.
- 🚛 Mud Flap Hangers & Leaf Spring Hangers
Type | Application | Key Spec | Notes |
Mud flap hanger bracket | Securing mud flaps to truck chassis | Mild steel; various widths | Mudflap hanger bracket — mounts behind rear axle; stainless versions for corrosion resistance |
Reflective mud flap hanger | DOT-compliant trucks | DOT-reflective strip | Required on commercial vehicles in many jurisdictions |
Leaf spring hanger | Trailer and truck suspension | Frame-specific bolt pattern | Front and rear leaf spring hangers secure leaf spring eyes to the frame |
Leaf spring shackle hanger | Trailing end of leaf spring | Shackle hole diameter | Allows spring flex; shackle hanger replacement is common on aged trailers |
Tandem axle hanger kit | Trailer tandem axle suspension | Kit: 4 hangers + hardware | Complete tandem axle hanger kit includes all mounting hardware |
🎸 E. Sports, Hobby & Lifestyle Hangers
- 🎸 Guitar & Musical Instrument Hangers
Type | Compatibility | Max Weight | Notes |
Wall mount guitar hanger | All acoustic and electric guitars | 15 – 25 lbs | Auto-grip cradle secures headstock; Hercules guitar hanger and String Swing among most popular brands |
Guitar wall hanger horizontal | Guitars displayed face-forward | 15 lbs | Guitar displayed flat against wall — decorative and functional |
Multi guitar wall hanger | 2 – 6 guitars per unit | 10–15 lbs each | Vertical or angled multi-instrument display rack |
Ukulele / banjo wall hanger | Small neck instruments | 5 – 10 lbs | Smaller cradle dimensions than guitar hanger; uke wall hanger |
Violin wall hanger | Violin or viola | 3 – 5 lbs | Instrument-specific padding; side-grip not neck-grip |
Saxophone wall hanger | Alto, tenor, baritone sax | 8 – 15 lbs | Bell or bell-and-neck cradle depending on sax size |
Trombone / trumpet wall hanger | Brass instruments | 5 – 10 lbs | Slide cradle (trombone) or bell cradle (trumpet) |
- Guitar wall hanger installation: always mount into wall studs — guitars up to 15 lbs create significant leverage load on the fixing point when suspended from a wall hook
- Hercules guitar hanger auto-grip feature: rubber-padded yoke rotates to grip the guitar neck as weight is applied — releases cleanly when lifted; trusted by working musicians
- Best guitar wall hanger for humidity-sensitive instruments: ensure rubber or suede contact surfaces do not contain latex-reactive materials — some foam and rubber compounds react with nitrocellulose lacquer finishes
- 🏹 Bow Hangers (Archery & Hunting)
Type | Mounting Method | Load | Best Use |
Tree strap bow hanger | Wraps around tree trunk | 10 – 25 lbs | Saddle hunting; treestand; temporary field use |
Bow hanger for tree stand | Hooks over treestand rail | 10 – 20 lbs | Compound bow storage while sitting in stand |
Wall mount bow hanger | Screws to wall or stud | 15 – 30 lbs | Home display of compound or recurve bow |
Truck / headrest bow hanger | Clips to vehicle headrest post | 15 – 25 lbs | Bow transport inside vehicle cabin |
Ground blind bow hanger | Clips to blind rod or pocket | 10 – 20 lbs | Bow access while seated in blind |
Compound bow wall hanger | Wall bracket — wider cradle | 25 – 40 lbs | Full-size compound bow storage/display at home |
3D printed bow hanger | Custom wall or stand mount | Up to 20 lbs | DIY enthusiasts; custom fit to specific bow model |
- 🏅 Medal, Trophy & Sports Hangers
Type | Display Width | Capacity | Notes |
Marathon medal hanger | 12 – 24 inches | 5 – 25 medals | Wall-mounted wooden rack; often personalised; Rundisney medal hanger variant |
Custom medal hanger | Made-to-order | Any quantity | Sport-specific: soccer, wrestling, ironman, running, gymnastics |
Wooden medal hanger | 18 – 36 inches | 10 – 30 medals | Laser-cut sport silhouette or name design with multiple hooks |
Sports jersey wall hanger | Frame dimensions | 1 jersey | Jersey hanger for wall — shadowbox style or open-face mount |
Gymnastics medal hanger | 12 – 18 inches | 10 – 20 medals | Level and sport themed; ribbon-mounted medals |
Baseball bat wall hanger | Horizontal mount | 1 – 4 bats | Wall bracket cradles bat barrel; also for bat dugout storage |
Surfboard / ski wall hanger | Horizontal pair | One board/ski | Padded wall bracket pairs hold board or ski horizontally |
- 🔖 Door Hangers — Decorative & Commercial
The term ‘door hanger’ covers both the printed marketing tool hung on door knobs and the decorative wooden or craft item hung on the front door as seasonal or personalised décor. Both are enormously popular — door hangers are among the highest-volume printed marketing products and among the most-made wood craft items in home décor.
Door Hanger Dimensions — Standard Sizes
Use | Standard Size | Paper Weight (print) | Hole Punch Spec |
Commercial / marketing door hanger | 3.5 × 8.5 inches | 80 – 100 lb card stock | ⅞” to 1¼” round punch at top |
Standard door hanger (US) | 4.25 × 11 inches | 80 – 110 lb | Standard ⅞” round punch or slot |
Hotel room do-not-disturb hanger | 3.5 × 8.5 inches | 12 – 16 pt card | Standard door knob punch |
Wooden craft door hanger | 10 – 16 inches diameter | N/A — wood | Cut or routed hole/slot at top |
Round wood door hanger | 8 – 14 inch diameter | N/A — wood | Routed notch or hole at top |
Oversized commercial hanger | 5.5 × 11 inches | 80 – 100 lb | Oversized punch for thick doors |
Decorative Door Hanger Types
- Seasonal: Christmas (snowman door hanger, Santa door hanger, gingerbread door hanger, Christmas bells door hanger, wreath door hanger), Halloween (ghost door hanger, skeleton door hanger, witch door hanger), Easter (Easter bunny door hanger, Easter egg door hanger), Thanksgiving (turkey door hanger, scarecrow door hanger), Spring/Summer (Hello Spring, popsicle door hanger, flamingo door hanger, sunflower door hanger)
- Personalised: Initial door hanger, last name door hanger, wedding door hanger, bridal shower, baby door hanger, custom monogram
- Commercial: Real estate door hanger, lawn care door hanger, pressure washing door hanger, automotive door hanger, roofing door hanger — distributed to households as marketing materials
- Religious: Saint Benedict door hanger, rosary door hanger, Easter cross door hanger, Nativity door hanger
- Standard door hanger dimensions for printing: 3.5 × 8.5 inches is the most common commercial size; 4.25 × 11 is the larger premium format; door hanger template PNG and SVG files are widely available for standard sizes
🥩 F. Hanger Steak — The Cut Explained
Hanger steak — also called onglet (French), butcher’s steak, or hanging tender — is a beef cut from the diaphragm muscle that ‘hangs’ from the last rib. It is one of the most flavourful cuts on the animal, prized for its deep, mineral-rich beefy flavour that rivals far more expensive cuts. There is only one hanger steak per animal.
Attribute | Detail |
Cut location | Diaphragm — the muscle that ‘hangs’ between the rib and loin; one per animal |
Weight (per cut) | Typically 10 oz to 16 oz (0.6 – 1 lb) per whole hanger steak; 8 oz serving common |
Texture | Coarse grain — slightly fibrous but extremely tender if not overcooked |
Flavour | Deeply beefy, mineral-forward; similar to skirt steak but richer; more flavourful than flank |
Best cooking method | High-heat sear: cast iron pan, grill, or broiler — 2–4 min per side for medium-rare |
Internal temperature | 125–130°F medium-rare (hanger steak is NEVER served beyond medium — becomes tough) |
Hanger steak marinade | Acid-based marinades (chimichurri, citrus, wine) tenderise; do not marinate over 4 hours |
Hanger steak vs skirt steak | Both diaphragm adjacent; skirt is the diaphragm wall; hanger is the hanging muscle — richer flavour |
Hanger steak vs flank steak | Flank is the lower ab wall — leaner, tougher; hanger is more tender and fattier |
Calories (hanger steak) | Approximately 160–200 calories per 4 oz serving (lean with minimal trim); similar to skirt |
Price | Typically $12–$25/lb — lower than ribeye; higher than flank; wagyu hanger steak commands premium |
Where to buy | Butcher shops, farmers markets, Crowd Cow, Snake River Farms — not always available in supermarkets |
- Hanger steak sous vide: 130°F for 1 to 2 hours followed by a very high heat sear — produces the most consistently perfect result
- Hanger steak chimichurri: the most classic preparation — fresh parsley, garlic, olive oil, and vinegar-based chimichurri sauce complements the meat’s mineral richness
- Wagyu hanger steak: the wagyu breed produces extraordinary intramuscular fat marbling in the hanger muscle — considered one of the finest everyday-cook beef experiences available
Standard Hanger Dimensions Reference
Hanger Type | Width / Length | Depth / Thickness | Height | Key Measurement |
Standard adult clothes hanger | 16 – 17 inches (43 cm) | 5 – 7 inches | 2.5 – 3 inch hook | Width determines garment fit |
Wide coat hanger | 17 – 19 inches (48 cm) | 6 – 8 inches | 3 inch hook | Width must exceed shoulder width |
Kids hanger (age 2–7) | 10 – 12 inches | 4 – 5 inches | 2 inch hook | Width scaled to children’s clothing |
Wire coat hanger | 16 – 17 inches | 4 inches | 2 inch hook | 12 – 14 gauge wire |
Towel bar (standard) | 18 – 24 inches | 2 – 4 inches | N/A | Wall hole spacing |
Towel ring | 6 – 8 inch diameter | 3 – 5 inches | N/A | Diameter = ring interior |
Single wall hook | 2 – 4 inch projection | 1 – 2 inches | Mount at 60–72″ | Projection = reach from wall |
Multi-hook rack (small) | 12 – 18 inches | 3 – 5 inches | Mount at 60–72″ | Length × number of hooks |
Picture wire hanger | Per frame width | N/A | N/A | Wire gauge rated to frame weight |
Sawtooth hanger | 2 – 4 inches | 0.5 inch | Nailed to frame | Serration catches wall nail |
Joist hanger (2×6) | 1.75″ interior | 3.25″ high | Face-mounted | Interior width = lumber thickness |
Joist hanger (2×10) | 1.75″ interior | 9.5″ high | Face-mounted | Height = lumber height |
Clevis pipe hanger | Per pipe OD | Rod diameter | Ceiling rod mount | Interior = pipe OD |
Gutter hanger (K-style 5″) | 5″ gutter width | 2 – 3 inches | At fascia | Screw length: 2.5 inches minimum |
Door hanger (commercial) | 3.5 – 4.25 inches | N/A (flat) | 8.5 – 11 inches | Hole punch: ⅞ inch |
Shepherd’s hook | Base: 12 – 18″ dia. | N/A | 48 – 84 inches | Height above ground |
Macramé plant hanger | 6 – 12 inch opening | N/A | 12 – 48 inch total | Pot diameter vs opening size |
Materials Guide for Hangers
Material | Strength | Corrosion Resistance | Weight | Cost | Best Hanger Applications |
Powder-coated steel | High | Moderate | Medium | Low–Med | General purpose: coat hooks, towel bars, plant brackets |
Galvanised steel | Very High | High | Heavy | Medium | Structural: joist hangers, gutter hangers, outdoor plant brackets |
Stainless steel (304) | High | Excellent | Medium | High | Bathroom, marine, coastal, exhaust, pipe hangers |
Chrome-plated steel | High | Good (indoor) | Medium | Med | Bathroom towel bars, wardrobe accessories, decorative hooks |
Aluminium | Medium | Excellent | Light | Med | Lightweight wall hooks, plant hangers, gutter systems |
Cast iron | Very High | Good (painted) | Heavy | Low–Med | Decorative coat hooks, plant brackets, Victorian/farmhouse style |
Brass | Medium | Excellent | Medium | High | Period-style coat hooks, bathroom accessories, picture hangers |
Solid wood (cedar, oak) | High | Good (sealed) | Medium | Med | Clothes hangers, coat racks, quilt hangers, décor |
Plastic (PP/ABS) | Low–Medium | Excellent | Light | Low | Clothes hangers, OTD organisers, pipe clips, light hooks |
Rubber / EPDM | Flexible | Good | Light | Low | Exhaust hangers, vibration isolators, pipe cushions |
Cotton / jute rope | Low–Medium | Moderate | Light | Low | Macramé plant hangers, decorative rope hangers |
Velvet flocking | N/A (covering) | Moderate | Negligible | Low | Non-slip coating on clothes hanger body |
Complete Buying Guide — How to Choose Any Hanger
The hanger buying decision comes down to five variables that apply across every category from a clothes hanger to a joist hanger. Apply this framework to any purchase.
Step 1 — Define the Load
- Weight of the object being hung: always verify this before selecting a hanger — a ‘standard’ hook rated for 15 lbs is inadequate for a winter coat, guitar, or bicycle
- Static vs. dynamic load: static loads (fixed weight) require lower safety factors than dynamic loads (swinging, vibrating, or impact loads)
- Safety factor: for general home use, buy a hanger rated at 3 to 4 times your maximum expected load
Step 2 — Match the Environment
Environment | Recommended Material | Avoid |
Dry indoor (bedroom, living room) | Any — match aesthetic preference | Untreated mild steel — will slowly rust even indoors in humid rooms |
Wet indoor (bathroom, laundry) | Stainless steel or chrome-plated | Mild steel, cast iron without sealing — will rust |
Outdoor covered (porch, pergola) | Galvanised or powder-coated steel | Bare steel, chrome-plated — not rated for outdoor UV and rain |
Outdoor exposed | Hot-dip galvanised or aluminium | Powder-coat alone — coating degrades outdoors over 3–5 years |
Coastal / marine | Grade 316 stainless steel | All other metals — salt air corrodes even galvanised quickly |
Garage / shed | Powder-coated or galvanised steel | Lightweight plastic hooks — oil and solvent exposure degrades plastic |
Structural / load-bearing | Certified galvanised steel hanger | DIY-welded, modified, or substituted hardware — structural failure risk |
Step 3 — Verify Fixing Method vs. Wall/Substrate
- Stud wall: always target wall studs for any hanger rated over 25 lbs — the holding strength difference between a stud screw and a drywall anchor is 10× or more
- Drywall only: use toggle bolts or high-quality drywall anchors — never exceed their rated capacity; do not use for heavy items
- Masonry / concrete: use certified masonry anchors or chemical anchors — expansion anchors for light loads; chemical anchors for heavy structural applications
- Door hanging (OTD): verify door thickness compatibility and frame clearance before purchase
Step 4 — Check Compatibility
- Clothes hangers: verify hook diameter fits your closet rod (standard is 12 to 16 mm)
- Joist hangers: verify the hanger interior width exactly matches the lumber size — 2×6 lumber is actually 1.5″ × 5.5″
- Pipe hangers: verify against the actual outside diameter (OD) of the pipe, not the nominal size — 1″ nominal copper has OD of 1.125″
- Derailleur hangers: use the derailleur hanger finder tool (derailleur-hanger.com or manufacturer website) with exact bike model, year, and variant
- TV mount: verify the TV’s VESA hole pattern before purchasing — check with a tape measure on the TV back
Step 5 — Consider Aesthetics vs. Function
- For visible hangers (coat hooks, towel bars, plant brackets): material finish matters significantly — match to existing fixtures; brushed nickel, matt black, antique bronze, and brushed brass are the most popular residential finishes currently
- For invisible hangers (concealed joist hangers, hidden picture hangers): function is the sole criterion — buy certified and correctly sized
- For display-purpose hangers (guitar wall hanger, medal hanger, quilt wall hanger): the hanger IS part of the aesthetic — invest in a quality piece that complements the displayed item
Proven Tips
Clothes Hanger Tips
- Use velvet slim hangers throughout the wardrobe — they are non-slip, ultra-thin, and save approximately 30% of closet rod space compared to plastic hangers
- Reserve wooden or wide-shoulder hangers for structured garments (suits, blazers, heavy coats) — these are the garments that are most distorted by inadequate support
- Never hang knitwear, heavy knit jumpers, or hand-knitted items on any hanger — the weight causes permanent shoulder stretch; fold and stack instead
- Store cedar coat hangers in wardrobe — cedar deters moth larvae naturally; replace or sand lightly every 12 to 18 months to refresh the essential oil scent
- Clothes hanger size markers (hanger sizers): small plastic rings coded by size that clip over the hook — instantly identify garment sizes on shared or retail hanging rails
Structural Hanger Tips
- Always use the correct joist hanger nail specification — substituting standard nails for the specified short-thick hanger nails reduces the load rating by up to 40%
- For gutter hanger replacement: screw-in hidden hangers are significantly stronger than the original spike-and-ferrule system — an upgrade worth doing whenever gutters sag or spikes loosen
- Pipe hanger spacing: always follow the code-specified spacing for the pipe material — under-supported pipes create stress at joints and fittings over time, particularly in hot water systems where thermal cycling is greatest
Garden Hanger Tips
- For plant wall brackets in masonry walls (brick or block): use a masonry anchor drill bit and suitable anchor rather than screwing directly into mortar lines — mortar has low holding strength
- Shepherd’s hooks on soft ground: push the ground stake to full depth and water around the base — dry loose soil gives significantly less resistance to lateral loads from wind-swaying hanging baskets
- Macramé plant hangers outdoors: use UV-treated polyester or treated cotton cord rather than natural untreated cotton — natural fibre degrades quickly in direct sun and rain, weakening faster than its appearance suggests
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the standard size of a clothes hanger?
The standard adult clothes hanger is 17 inches (43 cm) wide — this is the dimension from tip to tip of the shoulder bar. Heavy coat hangers measure 17 to 19 inches. Kids hangers range from 10 to 14 inches depending on age group. The standard hook fits a closet rod of 12 to 16 mm diameter. Velvet slim hangers are the same width as standard but only 5 to 7 mm thick, saving significant closet rod space.
Q: How wide is a standard coat hanger in inches?
A standard coat hanger is 17 to 18 inches wide (43 to 46 cm). Suit and structured jacket hangers are typically at the wider end (17 to 18 inches) to support the shoulder shape. Children’s hangers are 10 to 14 inches. Wire hangers from dry cleaners are 16 to 17 inches. The standard coat hanger width has not changed significantly since the mid-20th century — it is optimised for the average adult shoulder span.
Q: What is a joist hanger and what does it do?
A joist hanger is a galvanised steel bracket that connects the end of a floor joist, deck joist, or roof rafter to a perpendicular beam or ledger board, preventing the joist end from splitting away from its support. Without a joist hanger, the joist relies on toe-nailing alone, which is significantly weaker. Joist hangers are required by building codes for deck construction and most floor framing in North America. The most widely specified brand is Simpson Strong-Tie.
Q: What is a derailleur hanger and why does it break?
A derailleur hanger (also called a gear hanger or mech hanger) is a small replaceable metal plate that mounts the rear derailleur to the bicycle frame. It is intentionally designed to be the weakest link — if the derailleur is struck by a rock, stick, or crash, the hanger bends or breaks rather than damaging the far more expensive frame dropout. A bent hanger causes poor gear shifting; a broken hanger makes the bike unrideable. Always carry a spare derailleur hanger — every bike model uses a different one.
Q: What is hanger steak and how does it compare to skirt steak?
Hanger steak is a beef cut from the diaphragm muscle that literally ‘hangs’ from the last rib — hence the name. There is only one hanger steak per animal, making it less common than skirt or flank. Compared to skirt steak: hanger has a slightly coarser texture but richer, more mineral beefy flavour; skirt is thinner and quicker to cook. Both are best cooked at high heat to medium-rare and sliced against the grain. Hanger steak vs flank: hanger is more flavourful and fattier; flank is leaner and wider. All three benefit from an acid-based marinade.
Q: What are gutter hangers and what is the correct spacing?
Gutter hangers (also called gutter brackets) secure the gutter to the fascia board along a roof eave. The most common modern type is the hidden hanger, which uses a screw through the gutter base into the fascia — far stronger than the older spike-and-ferrule system. Standard gutter hanger spacing is 24 inches for moderate climates. In areas with heavy snow or ice loads, reduce spacing to 16 inches. For a 20-foot gutter run with 24-inch spacing, you need a minimum of 10 hangers.
Q: What is a clevis hanger in plumbing?
A clevis hanger is a U-shaped yoke that wraps around a pipe and is suspended from a threaded rod by a bolt through the yoke ears. It is the most common adjustable pipe hanger in commercial plumbing, HVAC, and process piping installations. The threaded rod allows the pipe height to be fine-tuned after installation. Clevis hangers are sized by the pipe nominal diameter — a 1″ clevis hanger fits 1″ nominal pipe (1.315″ OD). Common sizes: ½”, ¾”, 1″, 1¼”, 1½”, 2″, 2½”, 3″, 4″, 6″.
Q: What is coat hanger pain?
Coat hanger pain is the term for a distinctive headache and neck pain pattern shaped like a coat hanger across the back of the head, neck, and upper shoulders. It is associated with autonomic nervous system dysfunction — particularly conditions like orthostatic hypotension, dysautonomia, and postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS). The pain is thought to result from insufficient blood flow to the neck and head muscles when upright. It differs from tension headache in its specific pattern and its association with standing or sitting upright. If experiencing this symptom regularly, consult a physician.
Q: What is ape hanger handlebars?
Ape hanger handlebars (commonly called ‘ape hangers’) are very tall, high-rise motorcycle handlebars that require the rider to hold their hands at or above shoulder level — the riding position resembles hanging from a tree like an ape. They are most associated with custom Harley-Davidson choppers and cruisers. Heights range from 10 to 18 inches above the mounting clamp. Ape hanger cable kits provide the extended throttle, clutch, and brake cables needed to reach the higher bar position. They are legal in most US states up to certain heights; check local regulations.
Q: How do I choose the right picture hanger for my frame?
Match the hanger type to the frame weight: under 5 lbs — a single sawtooth hanger or adhesive hook; 5 to 20 lbs — sawtooth hanger or single D-ring with picture wire; 20 to 50 lbs — double D-ring with heavy picture wire hung on two wall hooks; 50 to 100 lbs — French cleat system anchored into studs; over 100 lbs — custom structural solution with multiple stud anchors. Always locate a wall stud for any frame over 20 lbs. The most common mistake is using a sawtooth hanger on a heavy frame — sawtooth is rated for light frames only.
Disclaimer
This guide is for general educational and informational purposes only. Load ratings, dimensions, spacing requirements, and technical specifications are based on general industry data and typical product specifications at the time of writing. Always verify current specifications with the relevant manufacturer before purchase or installation.
Structural applications — including joist hangers, beam hangers, pipe hangers, and any load-bearing hanger installation — must comply with applicable local building codes and should be reviewed by a qualified structural engineer or licensed contractor where code compliance or life safety is involved.
Medical information (coat hanger pain / dysautonomia): the health information in this guide is for general reference only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified physician for any health concern.
The authors and publishers accept no responsibility for any outcomes arising from the use of information contained in this guide.
Always verify load ratings, building code compliance, and product specifications before installation.