How to Hide TV Cables Behind TV Stand

Visible TV cables are a common issue that can make even the most stylish entertainment setup look messy and disorganized.

These cables not only create an unsightly cluttered look but can also pose safety risks, such as tripping hazards or potential damage to cables and devices. Therefore, learning how to hide TV cables behind a TV stand is essential for both aesthetic and safety reasons.

This guide provides a comprehensive solution on how to hide TV cables behind TV stand, covering each detailed step from planning the cable route to gathering the necessary materials and employing various cable management techniques.

Whether you opt for cable raceways, ties, clips, or cable sleeves, this guide ensures a tidy and organized entertainment area. Proper planning and the right tools will make the process smooth and efficient, resulting in a cleaner, safer, and more visually appealing space.

Gather the Necessary Tools and Materials

Before you start hiding your TV cables, gathering all the necessary tools and materials is crucial to ensure a smooth and efficient process. Begin with a comprehensive cable management kit, which should include cable raceways, cable ties, and clips. You’ll also need a power drill and screws for securing the cable raceways.

Double-sided adhesive tape or Velcro strips are essential for attaching cables discreetly. Additionally, have cable sleeves or conduit on hand to bundle and hide multiple cables. Equip yourself with scissors or a utility knife for cutting, a measuring tape for accuracy, and a pencil or marker for marking positions.

Plan the Cable Route

Identify the Cables

• Determine which cables need to be hidden, such as power cords, HDMI, audio cables, and Ethernet cables. Assess each cable’s length and the specific devices they connect to.
• Make a list of these cables to avoid confusion during the cable management process.

Plan the Path

• Decide on the most efficient and aesthetic route for the cables from the TV to the power outlet and other connected devices. Consider the shortest path that avoids visible clutter while ensuring accessibility for future adjustments or upgrades.
• Map out the cable path on the wall or TV stand, ensuring that the route has minimal bends and curves to prevent potential damage to the cables. Bends and kinks can weaken the cable’s integrity over time, leading to performance issues.
• Identify any obstacles along the planned route and determine the best way to navigate around them, such as using cable clips or ties to secure the cables along irregular surfaces or tight spaces.

How to Hide TV Cables Behind TV Stand: Use Cable Raceways

1. Measure and Cut

• Measure the Length:
• Begin by measuring the length of the wall where the cables will be routed. Use a measuring tape for accuracy, noting each segment where the raceway will be placed.
• Consider any bends or turns along the path and measure those separately to ensure the raceway fits perfectly.
• Cut to Size:
• Use scissors or a utility knife to cut the cable raceway to the required length. A precise cut ensures that the raceway fits snugly along the wall.
• If you need to make multiple cuts for different sections, label each piece to keep track of their positions.

2. Mount the Cable Raceway

• Mark the Positions:
• With the measurements in hand, use a pencil or marker to mark the exact positions where the raceway will be mounted. Mark both the top and bottom edges to ensure it’s level.
• If your raceway comes in multiple sections, mark the positions for each segment.
• Ensure Level Placement:
• Use a level to verify that the raceway will be straight. Align the level along your pencil marks and adjust as necessary. Straight alignment is not only aesthetically pleasing but also crucial for the raceway’s functionality.
• Attach to the Wall:
• Depending on the wall type and cable weight, choose between screws or double-sided adhesive tape to secure the raceway. Screws offer a more permanent solution and are ideal for heavier cables.
• Double-sided adhesive tape can also be effective, especially on smooth surfaces. Apply the tape generously along the back of the raceway for a less intrusive option.

3. Insert Cables

• Open the Raceway:
• Most cable raceways feature a snap-on cover that opens easily. Detach this cover to expose the internal channel.
• Arrange the Cables:
• Place your cables inside the raceway, ensuring they are neatly arranged and not excessively overlapping. Overlapping can create bulk that may prevent the cover from closing properly.
• Consider grouping similar cables together using cable ties before placing them inside the raceway for added organization.
• Secure the Cover:
• Once all cables are in place, snap the cover back on securely. Ensure there are no gaps or bulges along the length of the raceway.

4. Secure the Raceway

• Check Stability:
• Inspect the entire length of the raceway to ensure it is securely attached to the wall. No sections should feel loose or unstable.
• Adjust If Necessary:
• Make the necessary adjustments if any part of the raceway is not secure. Tighten any screws or reinforce the adhesive tape as needed.
• Ensure Cable Safety:
• Lastly, confirm that the cables inside are not being pinched or strained at any point. Properly secured cables will last longer and continue to function effectively.

Using cable raceways not only keeps your TV area tidy but also protects the cables from potential damage. By following these detailed steps, you can ensure a clean and organized setup, enhancing your entertainment area’s aesthetic and functionality.

Use Cable Ties and Clips

Bundle Cables

• Group the Cables Together:
  • Start by grouping the cables that run in the same direction using cable ties. To minimize interference, try to separate cables based on their function, such as keeping signal cables and power cords apart.
  • Ensure the cable ties are tight enough to hold the cables securely together, but avoid overtightening them, as this could potentially damage the cables or restrict them unnecessarily.
• Attach Clips
  • Secure to the TV Stand:
  • Once the cables are bundled, use cable clips to attach the bundles to the back of the TV stand. This will help keep the cables off the floor and out of sight, creating a cleaner and safer environment.
  • Space the clips evenly along the back of the stand to maintain a tidy appearance and to keep the cables well-organized and close to the stand. By using clips, you also make it easier to rearrange or add cables in the future without hassle.

Use Cable Sleeves or Conduit

Insert Cables into Sleeve

• Place the Cables into a Cable Sleeve or Conduit:
  • Gather all the cables you’d like to organize and place them into a cable sleeve or conduit. This will help bundle the cables together, reducing clutter and protecting them from potential damage.
  • If necessary, use a utility knife to cut the sleeve to the required length, ensuring it fits perfectly along the planned cable route. Label the sleeve to prevent confusion during installation.
• Route and Secure
  • Route the Sleeved Cables Along the Planned Path:
  • Follow the previously mapped-out path for the cables. Ensure that the sleeve is straight and free from excessive bends or kinks, as these can affect the cables’ integrity.
  • Use Velcro Strips or Adhesive Clips to Secure the Sleeve:
  • Attach the sleeved cables to the back of the TV stand and along the wall using Velcro strips or adhesive clips. These securing methods not only keep the cables in place but also make future adjustments easier.
• By utilizing cable sleeves or conduit, you create a streamlined look and add an extra layer of protection to your cables, further enhancing the organization and aesthetics of your TV setup.

Hide Power Strips and Excess Cables

Mount Power Strips

• Attach Power Strips to the TV Stand:
  • Use Velcro strips or screws to securely attach power strips to the back or underside of the TV stand. This ensures that they remain out of sight, contributing to a tidy and organized setup.
  • Although hidden, the power strips should be placed in easily accessible locations. This makes it convenient to plug in or unplug devices without having to move the TV stand or other furniture.
• Manage Excess Cable Length
  • Coil Excess Cables:
  • Any excess cable length should be neatly coiled to avoid a tangled mess. Secure the coiled cables with cable ties to keep them compact and manageable.
  • After coiling, tuck the cables behind the TV stand or place them inside the cable raceway. This additional step keeps them hidden from view, maintaining a clean and uncluttered appearance.
• Label Cables
  • Label Each Cable:
  • Label each cable to facilitate easy identification for future adjustments or troubleshooting. This can be accomplished using cable tags or pieces of masking tape with written labels.
  • Properly labeled cables save time and effort, especially when making changes to your setup or diagnosing connectivity issues. Each label should clearly indicate its corresponding device or function.
• By following these steps, you’ll ensure a visually appealing entertainment area that is also functional and easy to manage.

Conclusion

Recap: Hiding TV cables behind a TV stand involves several crucial steps: planning your cable route, securing the cables with raceways, organizing them using cable ties and clips, enclosing them in cable sleeves or conduit, and concealing power strips and excess cables.

Each step emphasizes the importance of careful planning and the use of appropriate materials to ensure a tidy and efficient setup.

Importance: A clutter-free, organized setup enhances your entertainment area’s visual appeal while improving safety by minimizing the risk of tripping over loose cables.

By learning how to hide tv cables behind tv stand, you create a more polished and pleasant environment.

Final Tips: Regularly check that your cables remain secure and functional. As new devices are added or replaced, update your cable management solutions to maintain an uncluttered and efficient space. Consistent maintenance ensures a lasting, organized setup.