How do Instagram hashtags work?
In other words, Instagram hashtags are like labels for your posts. They help Instagram show your stuff to the right people. The hashtags you use affect what you see on the Explore page.
Also, Instagram uses these hashtags to figure out what your content is about and suggest it to people who might like it.
Do Instagram Hashtags Still Work In 2024?
Definitely.
People often talk a lot about hashtags, especially since Instagram advises using only 3–5 hashtags (we’ll explain more about that later).
But, using the right hashtags (and keywords) in your posts and Reels is still a great way to be found by new folks on Instagram.
That’s why it’s important to have a clear plan for your hashtags. Without one, you might miss chances to make your content better, get more likes and comments, and gain more followers.
The Top 50 Most Popular Instagram Hashtags in 2024
Relying solely on popular hashtags isn’t the most effective way to increase your reach and engagement because they often get lost in the crowd.
However, it’s still beneficial to stay updated on what’s trending on the app. Here’s a current list of the top 50 Instagram hashtags based on usage within the app:
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#interiordesign
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#design
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#love
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#fashion
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#realestate
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#inspiration
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#style
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#homedecor
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#art
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#instagood
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#travel
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#smallbusiness
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#shoplocal
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#foodie
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#wellness
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#selfcare
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#photography
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#home
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#architecture
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#food
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#health
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#beauty
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#linkinbio
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#motivation
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#luxury
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#lifestyle
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#nature
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#ootd
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#shopsmall
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#skincare
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#summer
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#handmade
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#fitness
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#mentalhealth
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#selflove
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#interior
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#photooftheday
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#supportlocal
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#business
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#homedesign
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#interiors
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#mindset
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#beautiful
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#instafood
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#wedding
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#community
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#weddinginspiration
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#entrepreneur
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#realtor
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#delicious
How Many Instagram Hashtags Should You Use On Your Posts?
As we mentioned before, Instagram suggested that creators use 3-5 hashtags in their posts, even though they allow up to 30.
Instagram is making changes to help people find content they like and avoid spammy or irrelevant hashtags.
The idea was to use fewer hashtags for better organization. But we found that using more hashtags, around 20, actually works better for getting more people to see your posts.
So, how many hashtags should you use on Instagram? Right now, using more hashtags is still a good idea to reach more people. But make sure they’re the right ones. Even using 5 or 10 good hashtags is better than using none.
What Are the Different Types of Instagram Hashtags?
Before you decide which hashtags to use in your posts, it’s a good idea to understand the different types of hashtags you can include.
This helps make sure you have all the important bases covered in your hashtag strategy.
There are five main types of hashtags to think about:
- Location-based hashtags: These are like #BryantPark or #LowerEastSide.
- Branded hashtags: These are for special campaigns, events, or showcasing what it’s like to work at a place, like #LifeAtLater.
- Industry hashtags: These describe your specific area, like #SocialMediaManagers or #WeddingPlanners.
- Community-focused hashtags: These bring people with similar interests together, like #VanLifeLiving or #IAmASweatyBetty.
- Descriptive hashtags: These tell people what your post is about, like #WoodwickCandles or #SheaButterProducts.
There’s no set rule for how many of each type to use, but thinking about these options can help you come up with hashtags and guide your captions.
How to Find Trending Instagram Hashtags for Your Content
Conduct Research on the Instagram Explore Page
Instagram’s Explore page is a great spot to get ideas for your Instagram hashtags.
For the best results, search for words that match your brand or what you post. Check out the “Top” results:
These posts are doing well with Instagram’s system, so look at the hashtags they’re using. Maybe some of those could work for your posts too.
Check Instagram Hashtag Volume Using Instagram’s Tag Search Tool
When you’re looking for good hashtags to use, it’s essential to think about how many people are using them.
If a hashtag has been used on lots and lots of posts, your post might not get noticed.
On the other hand, if a hashtag has only been used a few times, not many people are searching for it.
Aim for hashtags that have been used between 10,000 and 200,000 times.
This can help you find the right hashtags and give you good ideas. For example, you might find a hashtag that’s a bit more unique but still has a decent number of posts.
Should You Put Hashtags in the Caption or Comments on Instagram?
Instagram says hashtags work fine whether you put them in your post caption or in the comments below it. You get to choose where they go.
But there’s something to think about: timing. If you’re typing in hashtags in the comments, it’s best to do it right after you post your stuff.
How to Save Time on Your Instagram Hashtags
Finding and using 20–30 hashtags for each post can take a lot of time. But there are ways to make it quicker.
One way is to make lists of hashtags that fit with what you usually post about. Then, you can quickly use these lists and add them to your posts. You can even put them in your post’s words with just two taps!