How Many Hashtags Should I Use On Instagram?

Instagram is more than just a platform to share photos and videos it’s a powerful marketing tool. For influencers, brands, and creators, one question often sparks debate: “How many hashtags should I use on Instagram?” While some believe the more, the better, others warn that excessive use can appear spammy. So what’s the truth?

In this article, we’ll break down how hashtags work, explore optimal usage, and help you develop a hashtag strategy that actually drives engagement and visibility. By the end, you’ll have a clear answer to how many hashtags should I use on Instagram? and how to use them effectively.

Why Hashtags Matter on Instagram

Before we get to numbers, it’s crucial to understand why hashtags matter in the first place.

Hashtags act as discoverability tools. When users search for a hashtag or follow one, Instagram shows them content tagged with it. That means your posts can reach people outside your existing followers if you use the right hashtags.

In short, hashtags:

• Improve discoverability
  
• Connect your content with niche audiences
  
• Increase likes, comments, and shares
  
• Boost overall post engagement
  

Now that we understand the “why,” let’s explore the big question: how many hashtags should I use on Instagram?

The Official Instagram Limit

Instagram currently allows up to 30 hashtags per post and 10 hashtags per Story. This gives users plenty of options, but the real question is: should you use all 30?

Technically, yes. But strategically? Not always.

What Instagram Says About Hashtag Use

In 2021, Instagram’s official @creators account advised users to use 3 to 5 hashtags per post. This shocked many marketers and creators who were used to using 20 or more.

Instagram explained that fewer, more targeted hashtags help the algorithm better understand your content. Rather than spamming every popular tag, the goal is relevance.

However, Instagram didn’t say you can’t use more. That’s where strategy comes in.

How Many Hashtags Should I Use on Instagram? (Optimal Strategy)

Let’s address the core question head-on: how many hashtags should I use on Instagram?

Ideal Range:

• Feed posts: 9–15 hashtags
  
• Reels: 3–7 hashtags
  
• Stories: 1–3 hashtags
  
• Comments (instead of captions): up to 30, but only if relevant
  

Why this range?

Research from several Instagram analytics platforms, including Later and HubSpot, found that posts with 9 to 15 targeted hashtags perform better than those with either too few or the maximum allowed. It strikes a balance between discoverability and clarity.

Types of Hashtags to Include

Using the right hashtags is more important than using many hashtags. Here’s how to build a diverse hashtag set:

Branded Hashtags

Create a unique hashtag for your brand. For example, #HowManyHashtagsShouldIUseOnInstagram can be your branded tag to build recognition and collect user-generated content.

Niche Hashtags

These attract users who care about specific topics. They’re not overly crowded, so your post stays visible longer. Example: #PlantBasedSnacks for a vegan food post.

Community Hashtags

Connect with like-minded people using hashtags like #WritersOfInstagram or #FitnessMotivation.

Trending Hashtags

Use with caution. Trends change fast, and using unrelated trending tags can hurt your reach.

Location Hashtags

Perfect for local businesses or travel content. Example: #NYCFoodie or #ParisSunset.

By mixing these types, you enhance visibility while targeting multiple audience segments.

Where to Place Hashtags: Caption vs. Comment

Instagram doesn’t penalize you for placing hashtags in the comments instead of the caption. In fact, many users do this to keep captions clean.

However, the performance remains the same either way. Choose whichever method suits your style, but make sure you place them immediately after publishing. Delay can reduce their impact.

Hashtag Mistakes to Avoid

Even if you now understand how many hashtags should I use on Instagram, it’s equally important to avoid these common mistakes:

• Using irrelevant hashtags: They confuse the algorithm and lower engagement.
  
• Copy-pasting the same hashtags for every post: Instagram may consider this spammy behavior.
  
• Ignoring hashtag analytics: Not tracking performance can stunt your growth.
  
• Using banned hashtags: Some hashtags are flagged for inappropriate content. Using them can shadowban your post.

How to Track Hashtag Performance

Now that you know how many hashtags should I use on Instagram, you need to track how well they perform.

Use these tools:

• Instagram Insights: Available for business/creator accounts.
  
• Later Analytics
  
• Hootsuite
  
• Hashtagify.me
  

Look at metrics like reach, impressions, and engagement rate to determine which hashtags drive results. Over time, you’ll develop a winning formula tailored to your audience.

Testing Your Hashtag Strategy

No strategy is perfect from day one. That’s why testing is crucial.

A/B Test Your Hashtags:

• Post two similar photos at different times.
  
• Use different sets of hashtags.
  
• Compare engagement metrics.
  

This trial-and-error process will refine your understanding of how many hashtags should I use on Instagram for your unique brand.

Conclusion

So, how many hashtags should I use on Instagram? The ideal number isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. However, using 9 to 15 targeted, relevant hashtags usually brings the best results.

Rather than maxing out the 30-hashtag limit, focus on strategy, variation, and performance. Mix niche, branded, and community tags. Avoid banned or irrelevant tags. And most importantly, track your results.

Remember, it’s not about spamming it’s about connection. Use hashtags as bridges to reach new followers, not shortcuts. When you understand the true purpose behind hashtags, your engagement will soar.

FAQs

Can I use all 30 hashtags in a single post?

Yes, you can, but using 9 to 15 relevant hashtags usually performs better than using all 30.

Is it true that fewer hashtags are better?

Not always. Instagram suggests 3 to 5, but studies show that 9 to 15 well-targeted hashtags often yield higher engagement.

Should I put hashtags in the caption or comments?

Both options work. For aesthetic reasons, some prefer placing them in the comments. Just ensure they go up immediately after posting.

Do hashtags work on Reels and Stories?

Absolutely. You can use up to 10 hashtags in Stories and 30 in Reels. However, fewer, relevant hashtags tend to work better in these formats.

What happens if I use the same hashtags repeatedly?

Repeated use of the same set may be flagged as spammy by Instagram. Rotate your hashtags based on content type and audience behavior.

How do I know which hashtags are banned?

You can check a hashtag manually by searching it on Instagram. If it shows no recent posts, it may be banned. Avoid these to protect your account’s reach.

Should I create my own branded hashtag?

Yes. Branded hashtags are great for community building and content tracking. Just make sure it’s unique and easy to remember.

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