New Instagram Rules for Hashtags on Reels What You Need to Know

Instagram recently updated its guidelines on the number of hashtags allowed under Reels. This change affects how creators, influencers, and brands use hashtags to reach their audience and boost engagement. Understanding these new rules is essential to keep your content visible and effective on the platform.

What Has Changed with Instagram Hashtags on Reels

Instagram has limited the number of hashtags you can add below each Reel. Previously, users could include up to 30 hashtags per post, but the new rule reduces this number significantly. Now, you can only add up to 5 hashtags under every Reel.

This change aims to encourage more meaningful hashtag use and reduce spammy or irrelevant tags that clutter the platform. Instagram wants creators to focus on quality over quantity, helping users discover content that truly matches their interests.

Why Instagram Made This Change

The hashtag limit update is part of Instagram’s ongoing effort to improve user experience. Here’s why this matters:

• Reduce spam and clutter: Too many hashtags can overwhelm users and make content look spammy.

• Improve content discovery: Fewer, more relevant hashtags help Instagram’s algorithm better categorize and recommend Reels.

• Encourage creativity: Creators must think carefully about which hashtags best describe their content.

• Level the playing field: Smaller creators have a better chance to compete without relying on mass hashtag use.

  
  

How This Affects Your Instagram Strategy

If you regularly post Reels, this change means you need to rethink your hashtag approach. Here are some practical tips:

• Choose hashtags carefully: Focus on 3 to 5 hashtags that are highly relevant to your content and audience.

• Mix popular and niche tags: Use a combination of widely searched hashtags and more specific ones to reach targeted viewers.

• Avoid generic tags: Tags like #love or #fun are too broad and won’t help your Reel stand out.

• Test and analyze: Monitor which hashtags drive the most views and engagement, then adjust your choices accordingly.

• Use hashtags in captions: Since the limit applies to hashtags below Reels, consider placing some in your caption if it fits naturally.

  
  

Examples of Effective Hashtag Use Under the New Rules

To illustrate, imagine you post a cooking Reel featuring a vegan recipe. Instead of using 30 hashtags, focus on these five:

• #VeganRecipes

• #PlantBasedCooking

• #HealthyEating

• #EasyMeals

• #FoodieLife

  
  

This selection targets viewers interested in vegan food and healthy meals, increasing the chance your Reel reaches the right audience.

For a fitness Reel, you might use:

• #HomeWorkout

• #FitnessMotivation

• #BodyweightTraining

• #GetStrong

• #WorkoutTips

  
  

These tags are specific and relevant, helping your content connect with fitness enthusiasts.

What Happens If You Use More Than 5 Hashtags?

Instagram’s system will likely ignore any hashtags beyond the fifth one under your Reel. This means extra hashtags won’t help your content get discovered and could even look like spam to the algorithm. To avoid this, stick to the new limit and focus on quality.

Additional Tips to Boost Your Reels’ Reach

Besides hashtags, consider these strategies to improve your Reels’ visibility:

• Engage with your audience: Reply to comments and encourage interaction.

• Post consistently: Regular content keeps your profile active and favored by Instagram’s algorithm.

• Use trending audio: Popular sounds can increase your chances of being featured.

• Create high-quality videos: Clear visuals and good lighting attract more viewers.

• Collaborate with others: Partnering with other creators can expand your reach.

  
  

What This Means for Brands and Influencers

Brands and influencers who rely on Instagram Reels for marketing must adapt quickly. The hashtag limit encourages more thoughtful content planning and audience targeting. Instead of flooding posts with hashtags, focus on building genuine connections through relevant tags and engaging content.

This change also highlights the importance of other Instagram features like Stories, IGTV, and Guides to diversify your content strategy.

Final Thoughts on Instagram’s Hashtag Rule Update

The new Instagram rule limiting hashtags under Reels to five marks a shift toward more intentional content sharing. By choosing hashtags wisely and focusing on quality, creators can maintain or even improve their reach despite fewer tags.