Best Plastic Staples for Electrical Wiring
Choosing the right plastic staples for electrical wiring helps protect cables, prevent insulation damage, and simplify installation. This guide highlights five reliable options from reputable brands, focusing on durability, cable compatibility, and ease of use. Each product features UV-resistant saddles, smooth noses, and non-metallic options designed to minimize wood damage while holding NM and related cables securely. Use the quick-reference table below to compare key specs at a glance.
| Product | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Gardner Bender PS-175J | 14/3, 12/3, 10/3 NM | UV-resistant polyethylene | Smooth saddles protect insulation |
| Gardner Bender PS-225J | 14/2, 12/2, 10/2 NM | UV-resistant polyethylene | High-volume 225 count for larger runs |
| Gardner Bender PS-750B | 14/2, 12/2, 10/2 NM | UV-resistant polyethylene | Balanced blend of durability and value |
| Gardner Bender MSI-200JT | NM, BX, MC, AC, UF | Insulated plastic with steel core | Protects cables and reduces arc fault risk |
| Gardner Bender PSM-1550T | Cat 5/3 UTP, general NM/UF | White plastic clip-on with zinc nails | Versatile for data and power cables |
The following sections provide detailed product insights to help you select staples that align with your project needs, whether you’re wiring a new installation or upgrading an existing run.
Gardner Bender PS-175J Plastic Staple
The PS-175J staple is designed to secure NM cable assemblies, including 14/3, 12/3, and 10/3 configurations. Its UV-resistant polyethylene saddles resist rust and deterioration, extending staple life in exposed or outdoor-like conditions. The product emphasizes smooth saddles to minimize insulation damage during installation, helping electricians maintain cable integrity while achieving reliable securing. This option is suitable for general residential wiring where minimizing insulation wear is a priority and where an affordable, high-quality staple is desirable.
Gardner Bender PS-225J Plastic Staple
The PS-225J staples are sized for 14/2, 12/2, and 10/2 NM cables and come in a 225-pack. The UV-resistant, splinter-free polyethylene saddle construction helps protect wire insulation during installation. The staple design emphasizes durability and affordability, making it a practical choice for larger residential projects where numerous fasteners are required to secure cables along studs or joists without risking insulation damage.
Gardner Bender PS-750B Plastic Staple
The PS-750B model supports NM cable runs of 14/2, 12/2, and 10/2, with PVC-like durability and UV protection. Its high-quality UV-resistant saddles are designed to resist deterioration over time, ensuring a long service life in typical indoor environments. The product’s smooth saddles also assist in preventing insulation damage and facilitate straightforward installation, which can speed up job sites with repetitive fastening tasks.
Gardner Bender MSI-200JT Insulated Metal Staple
The MSI-200JT is an insulated metal staple designed to secure NM cables as well as BX, MC, AC, and UF cables. The insulated polyethylene barrier protects wires and helps reduce arc fault risks by providing an additional layer of protection between the cable and metal components. This option is well-suited for more demanding installations where additional cable protection and rigidity are beneficial, particularly in areas with potential contact with conductive materials or higher movement.
Gardner Bender PSM-1550T Plastic Clip On Staple
The PSM-1550T features plastic clip-on masonry staples designed for securing cables such as Cat 5/3 UTP data cables, with UV-resistant saddles for durability in various environments. Its corrosion-resistant nail coating helps ensure long-term performance in masonry or wood installations where staples must endure exposure to humidity and other elements. This option provides a solid balance of cable security and data cable compatibility in mixed-use runs.
Multi Cable Staples For Romex Clips (Atader)
These multi-cable staples are designed to handle Romex, UF, coaxial, and data cables, including CAT 5. The package includes nails and screws, with clamps that accommodate multiple cables in a single fastener. Made from durable PE material with stainless steel nails, they help organize and secure several cables running together on studs, supporting neater installations and improved cable management in residential or light commercial projects.
Buying Guide
Key considerations when choosing plastic staples for electrical wiring:
- Cable type and gauge: Confirm compatibility with NM, UF, BX/MC, or data cables. Ensure the staple size fits the cable diameter without over-tightening, which could damage insulation.
- Material and finish: UV-resistant saddles extend outdoor or sun-exposed life. Smooth saddles reduce insulation damage and arcing risks during and after installation.
- Insulation and protection: Insulated or metal-embedded staples offer different levels of cable protection. Insulated variants help prevent short circuits and arcing, especially in metal-framed installations.
- Installation environment: Indoor, outdoor, or masonry environments affect material choice. For masonry, clip-on staples or heavier-duty options may be advantageous.
- Pack quantity and cost: Larger packs lower per-unit cost but require sufficient project volume. Balance quantity with project scope to avoid surplus outlets.
- Aim for code-compliant installations: Use staples that meet local electrical codes and manufacturer guidelines to ensure safe, compliant wiring.
- Ease of use: Smooth nose design, pre-formed nails, and clip-on variants can speed up installation, especially in tight spaces or when running multiple cables together.
- Durability and resistance: UV resistance, corrosion resistance, and the ability to withstand hammering without splitting the wood are important for long-term reliability.
In summary, Gardner Bender’s PS-series staples provide versatile NM cable securing with protective saddles, while MSI-200JT adds an insulation layer for higher protection levels when securing diverse cable types. For mixed data and power cable runs, clip-on options can offer quick, organized installations. Consider project-specific needs such as environment, cable type, and long-term reliability when making your selection.