In this article
In a rental or a condo with strict rules, cutting into the wall is off the table. You can still get a clean look — the trick is making the cables disappear on the surface.
Option 1: Paintable raceway (our default)
A slim plastic channel with an adhesive back runs from the TV straight down to the outlet. Paint it the wall color and it nearly vanishes. Tips:
- Choose a size that fits your cables with room to spare — power plus two HDMI usually fits a 1-1/4-inch channel.
- Run it straight and plumb under the center of the TV; diagonal runs draw the eye.
- Use removable adhesive or a few tiny finishing nails (easier to patch than torn paint).
- Paint it before you stick it up, with the same sheen as the wall.
Option 2: Cord covers along the baseboard
If the outlet is off to the side, a low-profile cover along the baseboard carries the cables the rest of the way. Paint it to match the trim, not the wall.
Option 3: Furniture does the hiding
A console or floating shelf directly under the TV shortens the visible run to a few inches. Pair it with a surge protector behind the furniture and a Velcro tie for the extra length.
Option 4: Shorter, tidier cables
Half the mess is extra length. Replace a 10-foot HDMI with a 3-foot one, bundle with reusable ties and use a right-angle power plug so the TV sits flatter.
What to avoid
- Tape that leaves residue or pulls paint
- Running cables loose behind the TV — they pull on the ports over time
- Anything inside the wall without written permission
Rather have a pro do it?
Exact price in about a minute — TV size, wall type and cables included. Same-day in most areas, 3-year warranty on every install.
A paintable raceway install with us is $39 per TV; in-wall concealment is $69 where the lease allows it. For a hollow wall you own, see hiding wires in the wall.
Gear mentioned in this article
Delamu Cord HiderPaintable cable raceway: hides the run without cutting the wall.Check price →
VELCRO Brand Reusable Cable Ties, Cord Management, 6in, Black, 100 PackReusable cable ties.Check price →
TROND Power Strip Surge Protector, 4000J, ETL Listed, Flat Plug 5ftFlat-plug surge protector: fits behind a flush panel.Check price →
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