Cables packed into Filmsticks Clear Cable Pouches

Cable Management 101

August 20 2025, 5 min reading time

From keeping your set safe to ensuring efficient workflows, how to keep cables organised is a skill every crew member should master. In this post, we’ll share tips and tools for on-set cable management, including solutions like CableGenie, cable ties, spiral wrap, Bongo Ties, hook-and-loop ties, and gaffer tape. Whether for on-set or personal use, there are plenty options to keep your cables tidy and your production running smoothly.

On a busy film or TV set, managing cables effectively is crucial. Whether you're working with cameras, lights, or audio equipment, tangled or misplaced cables can slow down production and create safety hazards. That’s why cable management is a key requirement for any crew member.

In this post, we’ll share tips and tools for on-set cable management, including solutions like CableGenie, cable ties, spiral wrap, Bongo Ties, hook-and-loop ties, and gaffer tape. From managing under-desk setups to complex set designs, these tools will keep cables organised and out of the way.

Why Cable Management is Important

Safety: Tripping hazards are a common risk on set. Proper cable organisation helps prevent these type of accidents.
Efficiency: Easily accessible cables speed up troubleshooting and setup changes.
Durability: Properly stored cables are less likely to get damaged, saving time and money in the long run.

Highly Rated Cable Management Solutions for Film Sets

1. CableGenie

Pictured: CableGenie Cable Tidying Clips holding one and multiple cables

The CableGenie is an innovative clip designed to keep cables neatly bundled.

How It Works: Attach it to light stands, tripods, or other rigging points to organise cables running between equipment.
Best For: Keeping power and signal cables separated to avoid interference.
Why Use It: Its lightweight and reusable design makes it perfect for fast-paced on-set environments.

2. Hook-and-Loop Cable Ties

Pictured: One Wrap Hook and Loop Adjustable Cable Ties in Red

One Wrap or hook-and-loop cable ties are reusable, durable, and easy to adjust.

How It Works: Wrap them around your cables and secure them with the hook-and-loop fastening.
Best For: Managing cables that are frequently connected and disconnected, such as camera or audio cables.
Why Use Them: These ties won’t damage delicate cables and can be reused countless times.
- Pro Tip: Use coloured hook-and-loop ties to identify cables for different devices at a glance.

3. Spiral Wrap

Pictured: Spiral Cable Wrap (8mm x 5m) Cable Management Solution in Blue

A spiral wrap is an excellent tool for bundling multiple cables together.

How It Works: Wrap it around cables to keep them compact and tidy.
Best For: Areas where cables need frequent movement, such as camera rigs or dolly tracks.
Why Use It: Protects cables from wear and tear while allowing flexibility.

4. Bongo Ties

Pictured: Bongo Ties (Original) securing cables together

Bongo Ties are an industry favorite for quick and secure cable bundling.

How It Works: These elastic ties feature a wooden toggle for easy securing and release.
Best For: Quickly tying up cables, securing small equipment, or organising loose ends.
Why Use Them: Durable, reusable, and compact, Bongo Ties are perfect for the constant adjustments needed on set.

5. Gaffer Tape

Pictured: Fluorescent Yellow Non Reflective Gaffer (NRG) in 1 inch by 25 meters (24mm x 25m)

A hero of on-set cable management, gaffer tape is ideal for securing cables to floors or walls.

Features: Non-reflective, easy to tear, and leaves minimal residue.
Best For: High-traffic areas where loose cables could pose a hazard.
Why Use Them: A regular addition to most kits, the easy tear nature and lack of residue left makes gaffer tape a quick and cost effective solution.
- Pro Tip: Use bright-coloured gaffer tape for visibility or black tape to blend into the background.

Tips for Effective Cable Management

Plan Your Layout: Map out where cables need to run before setting up. This avoids unnecessary crossings and tangles.
Label Everything: Clearly label cables at both ends to simplify setup and troubleshooting.
Use Cable Paths: In areas with heavy foot traffic, run cables through dedicated cable ramps or covers for added safety.
Wrap Properly: Use the over-under wrapping technique to prevent cable damage and tangling during storage.

Adapting Cable Management to Under-Desk Setups

For production desks, video village, or editing stations, under desk cable management is equally important:

Use spiral wrap or cable ties to bundle cables neatly under the desk.
Mount a cable tray, organiser or CableGenie clips under the desk to keep cables off the floor.
Secure cables with gaffer tape or Bongo Ties to prevent dangling wires.

From keeping your set safe to ensuring efficient workflows, how to keep cables organised is a skill every crew member should master. With solutions like CableGenie, cable ties, spiral wrap, Bongo Ties, hook-and-loop ties, and gaffer tape, there are countless options to keep your cables tidy and your production running smoothly.

Either for a professional shoot or a home setup, good cable organisation is key for creating a clean, professional workspace. Make cable management a priority on your next project and see the difference it makes!