Govee Lights Not Sticking? [Causes & Fixes]

Govee lights are cool and they are amazingly customizable. However, we have noticed that many users face a common problem, which is Govee lights not sticking properly to surfaces. This could be due to various issues. So, before blaming Govee, let’s figure out why your light strip is not sticking and what you can do in order to fix the issue. Let’s start!

Why Are Govee Lights Not Sticking?

Here are some common reasons why your Govee light strip is not sticking as it should be.

Dirty surfaces

You must know that even a thin layer of dust, dirt, or grease can significantly reduce the adhesive properties of Govee lights. So, it is important to clean the surface in the first place before you try to apply the Govee light strip.

usually, windows and doors tend to accumulate dust and dirt pretty quickly. This may contribute to adhesion problems. Sometimes, the surface may look clean and free of dust, but it can have invisible dirt and oil. So, clean the surface first.

In addition, surfaces like unpainted wood or porous tiles can absorb the adhesive, making it less effective. We have seen the same happen with newly painted surfaces, especially those with high gloss.

In addition, you should know that Govee lights come with the danger of damaging the walls to a certain degree if not handled well.

Quality of Adhesive

We are not suggesting that Govee’s adhesive is low in quality, but over time, the adhesive on the strips can degrade, especially if they have been exposed to air for too long before application. The quality of the adhesive can deteriorate over time especially in the areas with frequent weather fluctuations.

Moreover, the adhesive needs to be at the right temperature to bond effectively. If you try to apply the Govee light strip in cold conditions without bringing the adhesive to room temperature, won’t provide you with the intended results.

Improper installation

As we mentioned earlier, the preparation of the surface has a big role in the effectiveness of the application, which is a common mistake people tend to make. The process will greatly benefit if you wipe the area with isopropyl alcohol for proper application.

Applying the lights too quickly without ensuring the adhesive is properly aligned and pressed down can result in weak bonding. You must take 10-30 second and apply steady pressure for a strong bond.

Further, you must ensure that the surface you install the light strip must be even. If you try to apply the light strip on an uneven surface, the adhesive won’t have the ability to stick evenly on the surface. If it does, it won’t last for a long time. Also, you won’t receive the aesthetic look which you are desperate of.

Additional features

If your lighting string has additional features, such as coating and cables on it, it will make the light strip heavier. This additional weight puts stress on the adhesive and bond, eventually causing the light strip to fall off.

In addition, attempting to reuse the adhesive strips after they’ve been removed from another location can significantly reduce their sticking power.

How Do You Fix Govee Lights That Are Not Sticking?

Here are some remedies you can try if your Govee lights fail to attach to the surface you want.

If the original adhesive is not holding well, consider using stronger alternatives like 3M double-sided tape or Command Strips. These are known for their strong adhesive properties and can provide a more secure hold. Do not reuse old adhesive strips, as their sticking power diminishes after the first use.
You can use mounting clips or brackets specifically designed for LED strips. These can be screwed to the surface and provide extra support to hold the lights in place.
If you are looking for a temporary or adjustable solution, we recommend considering using Velcro strips. They allow you to reposition the lights without losing adhesive strength.

On What Surfaces Do Govee Lights Stick Well?

If possible, we recommend you try to apply your Govee lights on the following surfaces for a better application without problems.

Smooth and Non-Porous Surfaces

Govee lights adhere well to glass surfaces, such as windows and glass doors, because the smooth and non-porous nature of glass allows for a strong bond with the adhesive.

Moreover, metal surfaces such as stainless steel and aluminum provide excellent adhesion for Govee lights. Sealed wood also provides a solid base for Govee LED light strips and it is the same with plastic surfaces like PVC pipes.

Painted Walls

Although we said that Govee light strips won’t perform well on gloss painted walls, story is a bit different when it comes to smooth finishes such as semi-gloss or satin paint as these type of surfaces are less textured. However, as we explained the surface has to be free of dirt and debris before you try to install.

Laminated Surfaces and Mirrors

Laminated surfaces tend to work well with Govee LED light strips. Installing Govee lights around bathroom mirrors can enhance the ambiance and provide functional lighting. Mirrors used as decorative elements in living spaces or bedrooms also work well for Govee light installation.

In addition to the above-mentioned surfaces, granite countertops, marble countertops, and smooth stone tiles can provide a strong base for Govee LED light strips.

What Surfaces Are Not Ideal For Govee LED Lights?

Not all surfaces make a good base for these lights. We recommend staying away from the below-mentioned surfaces.

Govee LED lights do not adhere well to textured or porous surfaces. Rough surfaces, such as brick walls, unfinished wood, and textured plaster, hinder the adhesive’s ability to bond effectively.

Additionally, porous materials like bare drywall and unsealed concrete absorb the adhesive, reducing its sticking power. Surfaces exposed to high humidity or moisture, such as areas near sinks or showers, can compromise the adhesive’s integrity over time.

Highly textured wallpapers and fabric-covered surfaces also pose challenges due to their irregularities and lack of smoothness. To ensure optimal adhesion, it’s best to avoid these types of surfaces and instead choose smooth, non-porous, and clean surfaces for installing Govee LED lights.

Peter Willy

Peter Willy is a dedicated smart home lighting enthusiast with a passion for exploring the latest innovations in the field. With years of hands-on experience, Peter buys new smart lighting products, rigorously tests them, and shares his insights through detailed troubleshooting guides and informative articles. His deep understanding of smart lighting technology and commitment to helping others make him a trusted source for anyone looking to enhance their home with the latest in smart lighting solutions