2025 Instagram Hashtags

Should You Still Use Them

Instagram hashtags still matter — big time.  In 2025, they remain one of the most effective ways to grow your audience, boost post visibility, and increase engagement.  But with changing algorithms and advice all over the place, many creators and marketers are asking:

  • How many hashtags should I actually use?

  • Which ones work best?

  • What’s trending right now?

  • Should hashtags go in the caption or the comments?

In this two-part series, we’ll break it all down.   In Part 1, we’ll cover the basics: how hashtags work, why they’re still relevant, and how to start building a smart hashtag strategy.  Let’s get into it!

What Is a Hashtag?

A hashtag is a word or phrase preceded by the “#” symbol — like #DigitalMarketing or #TravelTips.

On Instagram, hashtags serve as searchable labels.  They organize content into categories, making it easier for users to find posts they care about.  You can include hashtags in your caption or in the comments section — both methods work for discovery.

How Do Instagram Hashtags Work?

Hashtags tell Instagram what your content is about.  When you use the right ones, the algorithm is more likely to show your posts to users interested in that topic — either in their feed, on Explore, or through hashtag search results.

Think of hashtags as keywords for Instagram.  They improve your content’s discoverability and help you reach a more relevant audience.

Are Hashtags Still Worth Using in 2025?

Yes — but with a more intentional approach.

Instagram now recommends using just 3 to 5 highly relevant hashtags per post, instead of the old “throw in 30” method.  However, independent research has shown the number is closer to 20 hashtags.   But make no mistake: using hashtags strategically still works.

When used properly, hashtags can:

  • Increase your visibility

  • Help you show up in Explore and search feeds

  • Drive engagement from new and existing audiences

  • Provide insights into your community

3 Major Benefits of Using Hashtags on Instagram

1. Improve Your Visibility

Hashtags expand your reach by putting your content in front of users who follow or search for those topics. The right mix of trending, high-volume, and niche hashtags can get your posts seen by the right people — not just more people.

Pro Tip: Use a mix of broad and specific hashtags to cast a wider (yet targeted) net.

2. Boost Engagement & Make Meaningful Connections

Hashtags help your content land in front of users most likely to engage with it.  For example, a post with #SocialMediaManager may attract marketers, freelancers, or business owners in your niche.

You can also use branded hashtags (like #WinslowRanchMarketing) to build community and make it easy for people to find and engage with your brand’s content.

3. Collect & Share User-Generated Content

Want more social proof? Hashtags make it easy to find user-generated content (UGC) related to your brand.  Once you identify the tags that get you on Explore or boost your visibility, track them to find great UGC to reshare.

UGC builds trust, saves time on content creation, and strengthens your brand identity.

Stay Tuned for Part 2…

Coming up in Part 2:
✅ The different types of hashtags you should use
✅ How to research hashtags effectively
✅ The top hashtag tools for 2025

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