Does Pinterest Have Hashtags and How to Use Them Effectively
Learn how Pinterest hashtags work, their role in search optimization, and best practices for using them effectively alongside keywords.
Does Pinterest Have Hashtags and How to Use Them Effectively
Pinterest is more than just a social media platform — it functions like a visual search engine where keywords—and to a lesser extent hashtags—play a role in content discovery. This unique dynamic means hashtags on Pinterest require a specific approach to maximize reach, making them a useful supplemental SEO tactic for creators, bloggers, and marketers.
---
Pinterest as a Visual Search Engine vs. Social Media
Unlike Instagram or TikTok, Pinterest is designed to help users find ideas and inspiration rather than interact socially. Your pins can appear in search results long after posting, sometimes years later. This content longevity pushes creators toward robust search optimization rather than short-lived engagement spikes.
On traditional social platforms, hashtags often drive momentary feed visibility. On Pinterest, however, hashtags work to aid search indexing, acting as a complement to your keyword strategy rather than serving as the primary discovery mechanism.
---
Does Pinterest Support Hashtags?
Yes — Pinterest supports hashtags, though their functionality is more limited compared to other platforms. You can add hashtags in:
- Pin descriptions
- Board descriptions (optional, lower impact)
- Profiles (sparingly)
Hashtags on Pinterest are clickable, allowing users to view related pins. Still, keywords carry more weight in algorithm-based rankings, meaning hashtags help but do not dominate placement.
---
The Brief History of Pinterest Hashtags
Historically, Pinterest discouraged hashtag use prior to 2017. That year marked an official roll-out allowing hashtags to have functional relevance.
Between 2018 and 2019, Pinterest refined how hashtags worked:
- Older hashtagged pins became searchable
- Hashtag search began mixing results with keyword matches
- Focus shifted to quality over quantity
Today, Pinterest’s own best-practice advice emphasizes natural keywords with a few targeted hashtags as supportive elements.
---
Best Practices for Adding Hashtags in Pin Descriptions
Follow these principles when adding hashtags:
- Place hashtags at the end of the description for cleaner reading.
- Match hashtags closely to the content or image theme.
- Avoid keyword or hashtag stuffing.
- Use inline hashtags only when they enhance understanding.
---
Ideal Hashtag Count and Placement
According to Pinterest guidance:
- Use 3–8 hashtags per pin
- Position hashtags below your main description text
- Target hashtags to your specific niche or category
- Do not repeat identical sets on every pin, as it can diminish reach
---
How Hashtags Influence Pinterest Search
Hashtags act as extra metadata signals to Pinterest:
- Assist in categorizing pins faster
- Enable hashtag-specific search visibility
- Suggest content relevance for related categories
Despite these benefits, core keyword optimization in titles and descriptions continues to carry the most weight for rankings.
---
Keywords vs. Hashtags on Pinterest
| Aspect | Keywords | Hashtags |
|---|---|---|
| Placement | Titles, descriptions, board names | Mainly in descriptions |
| Influence | High ranking priority | Moderate ranking influence |
| Search Style | Exact match or semantic match | Clickable & tag-specific search |
| Lifespan | Long-term discovery | Short-to-mid-term aid |
---
Tips for Researching Niche-Specific Hashtags
To uncover effective Pinterest hashtags:
- Search hashtags directly on Pinterest to evaluate suggestions and popularity.
- Review competitor pins within your niche.
- Explore global hashtag tools, confirming activity on Pinterest.
- Monitor seasonal trends aligned with your niche.
---
Using Broad vs. Long-Tail Hashtags
Broad hashtags like `#DIY` or `#Travel` deliver wider reach but face higher competition. Long-tail tags such as `#DIYHomeProjects` or `#SoloTravelJapan` target smaller, more engaged audiences.
Example mix:
- 2–3 broad hashtags to attract general interest
- 3–5 long-tail hashtags to capture niche-specific traffic
---
Pin Performance Tracking in Pinterest Analytics
Pinterest Analytics provides insight into how hashtags affect engagement. Track:
- Impressions for overall visibility shifts
- Saves to gauge audience interest
- Clicks to see referral traffic impacts
Compare pins with versus without hashtags to determine efficacy.
---
Common Hashtag Mistakes on Pinterest
Avoid these pitfalls:
- Using irrelevant hashtags
- Overstuffing your description with hashtags
- Repeating the same hashtags across all pins
- Using trending tags unrelated to your niche
---
Actionable Hashtag Strategy Examples
DIY Niche:
#DIYProjects #HomeCrafts #DIYHomeDecor #CraftingTips #DIYFurnitureFood Blogging:
#EasyRecipes #VeganCooking #DinnerIdeas #HealthyMeals #MealPrepTravel Blogging:
#TravelTips #SoloTravelJapan #EuropeBackpacking #BeachDestinations #AdventureTravel
---
The Future of Pinterest Hashtags and SEO Trends
Hashtags remain in Pinterest’s ecosystem, but their value may decline as visual recognition AI gains prominence. Expect:
- Stronger focus on keyword-rich titles and descriptions
- Increased impact from visual search tools
- Potential shift toward automated categorization over manual hashtags
Flexible strategies will help creators adapt—keeping imagery and keywords strong, with hashtags used sparingly for strategic gains.
---
Summary: Making Hashtags Work on Pinterest
Pinterest does have hashtags, and when used wisely they can support your overall SEO strategy. They act as secondary signals, enhancing but not replacing keyword targeting. By keeping hashtags relevant, balanced in quantity, and responsive to trends, you can improve how your pins surface in search—without sacrificing readability or user trust.
CTA: Start auditing your Pinterest pins today. Refine your descriptions with quality keywords and a few targeted hashtags to boost your visual search visibility.
