Ideal home bathroom wallpaper: Bathroom wallpaper ideas to add colour and style to a space

Bathroom wallpaper ideas to add colour and style to a space

Get the Ideal Home Newsletter

Sign up to our newsletter for style and decor inspiration, house makeovers, project advice and more.

Thank you for signing up to Ideal Home. You will receive a verification email shortly.

There was a problem. Please refresh the page and try again.

By submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.

When it comes to small spaces like bathrooms, en-suites and cloakrooms, creating an impact with the decor can be a challenge. While tiles and paint are the go-to choices, for a quick and easy alternative, bathroom wallpaper ideas are an instant winner that can transform a small bathroom idea beautifully.

‘Often overlooked as an option when it comes to decorating a bathroom, wallpaper is a fairly easy and inexpensive way to breathe new life into an outdated space,’ says Chelsea Clark, Head of Brand at I Love Wallpaper.  ‘As an area of high humidity and moisture, a wallpaper with a vinyl coating or scrubbable finish can provide extra durability, and there are now plenty of choices when it comes to picking a wallpaper suitable for a bathroom.’

Bathroom wallpaper ideas

‘We’re always being asked if you can use wallpaper in a bathroom. We say, yes – of course you can!’ says Jamie Watkins, Co-founder, Divine Savages. ‘A properly ventilated bathroom will happily accommodate wallpaper. Embracing pattern in a small room is great and can actually make it seem bigger, plus it’s the room all guests are bound to see when they pop over, so it’s a chance to have a bit of fun and experiment, creating maximum impact.’

With our inspiring suggestions below it’s easy to see why wallpaper is such a popular decorating choice for bathroom ideas.

1. Go bold with an oversized print

(Image credit: B&Q)

While regular wallpaper isn’t recommended in damp and humid spaces, specialist bathroom wallpaper is designed to cope with steamy conditions, so is a brilliant way of brightening up a dull and dreary small bathroom layout on a budget.

Contour wallpaper has a 3D effect that can be used to mimic the look of tiles, marble, mosaic or simply to showcase an eye-catching print (like this bold botanical) and can be hung as easily as standard wallpaper, but with a splashproof and wipe-clean finish.

2. Find the right spot

(Image credit: I Love Wallpaper)

‘Steer clear of applying wallpaper to areas that experience a lot of splash back, such as around a bath, shower, or sink, or pair with complimentary tiles, for some extra protection,’ advises Chelsea at I Love Wallpaper.

‘It’s also important to ensure the area remains well-ventilated by keeping windows and doors open or using an extractor fan. This is especially important during application, to prevent any peeling. If you’re looking to use standard wallpaper, we recommend using an extra strong wallpaper adhesive to avoid lifting.’

3. Pretty up a plain scheme

(Image credit: Future PLC)

Bathrooms are home to lots of cold, hard surfaces that can make the space feel quite stark and clinical. Get around this by bringing in areas of colour and pattern that will add warmth and help to soften any harshness.

The area above the basin makes a prime spot for a panel of patterned wallpaper. Out of the direct splash zone, choosing a pretty chinoiserie or floral in a delicate colourway will bring softness to plain white tiles and fittings and pretties up the space for the cost of a roll of wallpaper.

4. Pick a print to compliment tiles

(Image credit: Divine Savages)

‘Small spaces are the ideal place to go big and bold, with all the impact of the wallpaper at less cost,’ says Jamie at Divine Savages. ‘Create exciting design moments by pairing tiles with a bold wallpaper. A particularly pleasing look, especially when using a single accent colour like this dark bottle green.’

Dark colours can work well in small spaces and used throughout can have the same space-expanding effect as a pale colour scheme. Go for glossy tiles and sanitaryware, teamed with mirrors and plenty of metallic accents on fixtures and fittings to add extra sparkle to a dark scheme.

5. Stretch space with stripes

(Image credit: Future PLC)

Horizontal stripes are a clever visual trick that designers often use in compact spaces, helping to lengthen walls and make a small bathroom feel wider. Focus on just one wall and opt for simple bands of colour that will draw the eye along and stretch the space visually.

In a low-ceilinged bathroom, try a wallpaper with vertical stripes that has the opposite effect to horizontal and will make walls appear taller and the ceiling higher. Clean lines and simple shapes are easier on the eye and can feel less chaotic in tight spaces.

6. Protect the finish

(Image credit: Future PLC / Rachael Smith)

To protect wallpaper from splashes in areas where it might come into contact with water (such as around a basin) consider adding a clear acrylic or perspex splashback. A transparent material will mean that the wallpaper pattern will still be visible, but without the problem of water damage.

Match wallpaper colour to flooring in a small bathroom. Continuous colour throughout can help to blur the edges of a room and will make it feel bigger and more expansive. Warm neutrals and soft, barely-there whites are easier on the eye than brilliant white for a less-clinical feel.

7. Pair panelling with a print

(Image credit: Dunelm)

Keeping wallpaper out of the splash zone is the easiest way to protect it from water damage. Instead of tiling the lower portion of wall, panelling makes a stylish alternative that can be painted a myriad of shades and is easily changed should you fancy a different colour later down the line.

Colour match wallpaper with painted panelling for a co-ordinated look. With a bright and bold design like this one, pick an accent colour from within the wallpaper design to provide some visual contrast. The bold teal – or the deep red – contrasts with the old gold background colour to give a warm, rich look.

8. Go with the faux

(Image credit: B&Q)

Mimic the look of tiled walls with a faux-tile wallpaper that looks just like the real thing but is far less-fiddly and time-consuming to put up. Made with a splash proof vinyl-coated finish, the wallpaper has a contoured surface with grout lines that look and feel realistic to the touch.

‘Paste-the-wall’ wallpapers are an easier and less-messy option than standard wallpapers, meaning that the paste goes directly onto the walls, with no pre-soaking or sticky paste table required.

9. Pick a point of focus

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Rachael Smith)

Use bold bathroom wallpaper ideas to create a point of focus. this elegant white tiled bathroom dedicates a surface area above the sink to show off the famous Cole & Son Flamingo wallpaper in all its glory. 

Above the sink and behind the mirror is the ideal place to captivate those using the bathroom. Using the wallpaper design in a soft blue colourway helps to add a watery touch to the design – ideal for a bathroom colour scheme.

10. Protect surfaces

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Serena Fokschaner)

When using bathroom wallpaper you can never be too careful when it comes to protecting the surface, to ensure it withstands the elements of bathroom life. This characterful bathroom is entirely papered with a delicate butterfly design, that is stylish yet subtle in equal measure. To protect the paper around the points of water flow the taps are mounted on a protective marbled splashback.

Thanks to the wispy grey trees on the paper the light marble tile coordinates perfectly to offer an almost seamless way of incorporating a layer to safeguard the paper from water splashes.

11. Make waves with a subtle seascape wallpaper

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Polly Eltes)

A subtle wallpaper goes a long way to enhance a bathroom decorating scheme. Often the main aim of a bathroom is to create a calming sense of serenity, creating the perfect place to pamper ourselves and take time out to relax – meaning a calming colour scheme is welcomed to achieve spa bathroom decor. 

In a softly hued room you don’t want bathroom wallpaper ideas to overpower, it should add pattern but without making the room feel busy. Waves are the ideal pattern, as they set the scene of tranquil beach life.

12. Go for large-scale pattern in a bigger bathroom

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Brent Darby)

If you have the space go big and bold with the pattern to allow the design of the bathroom wallpaper to dominate. Match the tones within the paper design to that of your bathroom tile ideas to ensure a cohesive colour scheme, to balance the overall look.

13. Make a bold statement with colour

(Image credit: Future PLC/ David Giles)

Use a wallpaper with a vibrant background colour as a small bathroom idea to enliven the space and make it feel more impactful. Using the bright wallpaper on a wall with windows will help to illuminate the space and also prevents the wall from feeling overpowering – thanks to the blocks of natural daylight breaking through the pattern.

14. Draw on pattern to distract from radiators

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Colin Poole)

Use bold pattern on walls where you may wish to distract from fixtures and fittings. Perhaps you have an unattractive radiator or an overbearing towel rail that you want to conceal. Statement bathroom wallpaper ideas can go a long way to drawing attention away from the other bathroom wall features. Colour coordinate towels to the wallpaper to camouflage them into the background.

15. Add pattern behind open shelving

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Dan Duchars)

Papering behind open shelving in any room is always a great. way to add interest, especially in bathroom where the shelves are mainly for displaying luxury toiletries and jars of bath salts. Choose a design that is captivating but not overbearing, to ensure the openness of the bathroom storage is retained – this soft foliage design is perfect, welcoming a touch of nature into the space too.

16. Elongate walls with a corner of pattern

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Lizzie Orme)

In a long slimline room throw the decorating scheme off balance to help create the illusion of space regardless of the layout you’re dealing with. In this slim space the bathroom wallpaper dominate two walls to create a corner of interest, leaving the remaining walls as less of a focus – which helps to make them feel more detached from the feature walls.

17. Invite a reflective sheen to smaller bathrooms

(Image credit: Future PLC)

In addition to adding pattern many wallpapers feature foil print which offers a level of sheen to modern bathroom ideas. In this small bathroom there is only one slim window at the far end meaning it is lacking in natural light. While often pattern can make a small space feel quite claustrophobic, a clever use of pattern can help to make the space feel bigger.

Take for instance the leafy patterned paper above, with a foil print on top of a light duck egg blue background. The pattern picks up the light and bounces it back into the room, helping to soften the pattern and create a feeling of airiness and space.

18. Bring hothouse style to an all-white suite

(Image credit: Future PLC/ David Giles)

There are few better ways to add colour to white bathrooms than with bathroom wallpaper ideas. A tropical design like this can be complemented with real plants and towels in accent shades of aqua and pink. The pattern was actually designed by the bathroom’s owner – if you fancy having a go yourself, you could use a website like Bags of Love.

19. Choose a design that speaks to you

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Clive Doyle)

The owner of this bathroom picked this beautiful koi carp design wallpaper as it reminded her of the years she’d spent living in Japan. It makes what is usually a functional space feel all the more special, and we love the way it coordinates with the blue glass used as a splash back next to the sink and shower. See more of this bathroom makeover.

20. Match the paint

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Paul Raeside)

Paint your walls, woodwork – or if you have it – panelling in the same shade as the background colour of your chosen bathroom wallpaper. This modern toile from Timorous Beasties looks gorgeous with the matching paint colour and heritage style sanitary-ware.

21. Invite a glimpse of pattern

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Heather Gunn)

Wallpaper doesn’t actually have to be in the bathroom to enjoy the effect. If you have an open ensuite like the one shown here, papering a wall next to the bathroom in a bold palm print will bring colour and pattern to the space without overwhelming it. Adding in a real plant or two will unite the two rooms.

22. Balance a bold botanical print

(Image credit: Future PLC/Claire Lloyd Davies)

This standout botanical wallpaper not only adds stunning pops of colour, but the vibrant hues take the familiar metro tiled bathroom to a whole new magnificent level. Conversely, the paler shade of the tiles creates balance.

23. Mix wallpaper with wood panelling

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Tim Young)

Create luxurious country bathroom ideas by using muted floral designs in soft grey tones. Wooden wall panels can be used in the areas where water is likely to splash, and are in keeping with a traditional look.

24. Pick something a little different

(Image credit: Future PLC)

If you’re wallpapering a bathroom it’s generally not a huge area to cover, particularly if you steer clear of the wet bath or shower areas, so it’s a good chance to, erm, splash out on a more expensive or unusual wallpaper and have some fun.

25. Frame a window with pattern

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Douglass Gibb)

This pretty damask style wallpaper looks gorgeous next to this slipper bath – and the huge candelabra adds to the opulent feel of the room. Flickering candles are all the lighting you’d need for a long, relaxing soak in this tub, which looks fit for a queen.

26. Maximise impact by papering a single wall

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Claire Lloyd Davies)

Using bathroom wallpaper ideas to create a feature wall is a proven way to make a statement. An added advantage of going for one feature wall in the bathroom is that you can target a wall furthest away from water. Plus, the smaller the area, the less wallpaper you’ll need so you may be able to afford that designer roll you’ve been coveting!

27. Encourage relaxation with marbled paper

(Image credit: Future PLC/ David Brittain)

Marbling is often used as a mindfulness exercise because it literally encourages people to go with the flow – you have no control over the paint or pattern created. That’s why it’s the perfect choice of pattern in a bathroom, as you can lose yourself in its arbitrary swirls.

28. Combine wallpaper and tiles

(Image credit: Future PLC/ David Giles)

if you’re worried about your bathroom wallpaper ideas getting wet, but want to put it on the same wall as a water feature, try this treatment. Tile up to the point where splashes might reach, then wallpaper to the ceiling. It’s a smart look and is more subtle that papering a full wall – if you’re unsure about taking the plunge, so to speak, this might be the way to go about things.

29. Go nautical

(Image credit: Future PLC/ David Giles)

It’s pretty obvious why nautical bathroom decor is a natural fit, but you can take things further with a themed wallpaper. From fish (see above) to anchors to beach huts, there are plenty of directions to head in – we think this is one of the most fun.

30. Add warmth with a wood effect

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Mel Yates)

Want to tap into the wood panelling trend without breaking the bank? Why not create a feature wall using textured or printed wallpaper? This wood-print paper brings a cosy Scandinavian feel to the cooler metal and ceramic surfaces.

31. Enhance a structural feature

(Image credit: Future PLC/Brent Darby)

If your bathroom is built into the eaves why not show off its striking proportions with wallpaper? In a light-filled space like this one, you can get away with something dark and dramatic as a striking attic bathroom ideas.

32.

Clash patterns

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Claudia Dulak)

Mixing and matching bold patterns has given this bathroom a retro feel – just check out the wallpaper versus that dramatic floor tiling. If you’re looking to channel 1970s chic, we advice you stick to a similar palette of orange and olive green. But use a lot of black and white, too, otherwise it could get too overwhelming – not ideal when you’re trying to unwind in the bath.

How to wallpaper a bathroom

1. Measure up

Choose a suitable wall to paper and measure the area to calculate how much wallpaper you will need. Avoid walls next to the shower, or directly behind the bath or basin, as water splashes could cause damage.

2. Prepare the walls

Damp walls must be treated, any cracks filled and glossy painted surfaces lightly sanded first. If the walls are freshly plastered, you must ‘size’ them using a coat or two of wallpaper primer.

3. Keep the paper smooth

Take care when hanging the paper to smooth out any air bubbles that form beneath the surface as you go. Use a squeegee to get rid of those imperfections. Otherwise, they will make the paper more likely to peel over time.

4. Protect with varnish

Once you have finished hanging the wallpaper, leave to dry fully before sealing with strong varnish to give a layer of protection against humid bathroom conditions. Try Decorators Varnish by Polyvine, £10.63 for 500ml. It’s a durable overcoat that is available in matt or gloss finishes.

(Image credit: Future PLC/ David Giles)

Which type of wallpaper do I need for a bathroom?

Most wallpaper is labelled according to use, and those suited to high-moisture rooms like kitchens and bathrooms are invariable vinyl. ‘Scrubbable’ wallpapers that are made from heavyweight vinyl 
or vinyl-coated are the best options, but also look for rolls labelled ‘extra washable’ or ‘highly wash-resistant’.

If you have your heart set on bathroom wallpaper that’s only marked ‘spongeable’, or not cleanable at all, it’s possible to boost its resilience using Polyvine’s Decorators Varnish. Use the Dead Flat version, which won’t alter the paper’s colour, and do a test patch first. Don’t forget to add the cost to your budget. A one-litre pot costs around £10.50 and will cover 15-20sq m. For best results, apply two to three coats.

Can I paper all the walls in a bathroom?

Yes, as long as you have a decent circumference of tiles around the bath and basin – aim for at least 60cm between water and wallpaper. But while maximalism is on trend, bathrooms are usually small, so if you’re going all out do choose a soothing design that won’t kick off your day with a headache.

A feature wall is a smart choice. You can afford to go much bolder and it’s easier to keep your bathroom wallpaper ideas away from splashes.

Is wallpaper safe inside a shower?

No, but you can get 100 per cent waterproof wall coverings that look like bathroom wallpaper ideas and don’t have the grout issues associated with tiles. For example, the Wall&Deco system available from West One bathrooms. It’s expensive though and requires specialist installation. A cheaper option is to wallpaper behind a sealed glass shower enclosure or screen.

Bathroom Wallpapers – our pick of the best

Get the Ideal Home Newsletter

Sign up to our newsletter for style and decor inspiration, house makeovers, project advice and more.

Thank you for signing up to Ideal Home. You will receive a verification email shortly.

There was a problem. Please refresh the page and try again.

By submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.

Give your bathroom a new lease of life on a budget with wallpaper. From realistic tile designs to coastal seascapes, freshen up your space and create interest with one of these fabulous feature wallpaper designs. Here we pick the best bathroom wallpapers to suit all tastes and budgets. Follow manufacturers’ guideline for putting up wallpaper and use the recommended paste where possible. Many papers are now designed so you can paste the wall rather than the paper, making them much easier to hang. The best thing you can do to ensure a wallpaper’s longevity in a bathroom is to avoid hanging it in areas that come into direct contact with water. Finally, make use of an extractor fan (or fit one if you don’t have one), and turn it on as soon as possible to whisk away excess moisture.

(Image credit: Graham and Brown)

Beside The Seaside Wallpaper

Specifications

Pattern repeat : 64cm

Roll: 10m x 52cm

Quirky and contemporary, this wonderful seaside-design wallpaper features a motif of traditional beach huts in British red, white and blue! This is a bright and summery design that brings colour and light to a bathroom. 

Beside The Seaside Wallpaper, £8, Graham and Brown.

(Image credit: TBC)

Faro Tile Wallpaper

Specifications

Pattern repeat : 26.5 cm

Roll: L10. 5m x W53cm

This Albany Maison Collection faux effect blown vinyl Andalusian painted tile effect wall covering is perfect for both bathroom and kitchens. Shown here in a dark blue on off white backdrop. Other colours available. 

Faro Tile Wallpaper, £15.98, Wallpaper Direct.

(Image credit: TBC)

Contour Blue Glass Brick Bathroom Wallpaper

Specifications

Pattern repeat: 53cm

Roll: 10m x W52cm

This striking glass tile effect wall covering, in contemporary blues and greens, is specifically designed to stand up to the humidity of bathrooms and kitchens. Extra washable. Splash proof, ideal for kitchens and bathrooms. 

Contour Blue Glass Brick Bathroom Wallpaper, £12, B&Q.

(Image credit: John Lewis)

Designers Guild Piastrella Wallpaper

Specifications

Pattern repeat: 70cm

Roll: 10m x 70cm

An elegant shaded tile pattern with vintage flecks creating the impression of an antique block print. A very adaptable moir embossed wallcovering, with some of the palette of colours offering subtle accents of metallic for added glamour. Made from vinyl. 

Designers Guild Piastrella Wallpaper, £89, John Lewis.

(Image credit: TBC)

Superfresco Easy Nature Trail Wallpaper

Specifications

Pattern repeat: 52cm

Roll: 10m x 52cm

This pretty floral and butterfly design is perfect for any room in the home. It is as durable as it is beautiful with an extra washable, three-dimensional finish. Paste-the-wall product. 

Superfresco Easy Nature Trail Wallpaper, £22, Very.

(Image credit: B&Q)

Ceramica Natural Pebbles Wallpaper

Specifications

Pattern repeat : 53cm

Roll: 10m x 52cm

A contemporary pebble design, ideal for high-steam areas. Peelable for easy removal. Wipe clean with a damp cloth to remove marks caused by everyday life. 

Ceramica Natural Pebbles Wallpaper, £12, B&Q.

(Image credit: Wilko)

Coastal Marine Wallpaper

Specifications

Pattern repeat : 26.5cm

Roll: 10m x 53cm

Bring unique touches and a fresh look to a plain bathroom by creating a refreshing seaside theme. A relaxing montage of nautical scenes, ideal to get a tranquil and summery look at home. 

Coastal Marine Wallpaper, £10, Wilko.

(Image credit: Laura Ashley)

Pelham Duck-egg Wallpaper

Specifications

Pattern repeat : 45.7cm

Roll: 10m x 53cm

If you’d like to introduce a bit of graphic pattern into your scheme, but don’t want anything too colourful, this graphic fabric design is an excellent choice. Suitable for all interiors, including well ventilated bathrooms and kitchens. 

Pelham Duck-egg Wallpaper, £16, Laura Ashley.

(Image credit: Habitat)

Water Stripe Blue Stripe Wallpaper

Specifications

Pattern repeat: None

Roll: 10m x 52cm

Make your ceiling feel higher with a vertical stripe wallpaper. Made in the UK, this wallpaper print combines varying widths with an ikat-look blurred edge that colours outside the lines. 

Water Stripe Blue Stripe Wallpaper, £15, Habitat.

(Image credit: Homebase)

Marble Wallpaper

Specifications

Pattern repeat: 64cm

Roll: 10m x 52cm

Get the look of marble without breaking the budget. This wallpaper has a realistic looking marble effect. 

Marble Wallpaper, £14, Homebase.

how to choose the best and stick it correctly

In the recent scarce past, a person planning repairs in his bathroom faced the problem of finding finishing materials. The question of choice simply did not stand – they used what they could “get”. Today, you can buy any coating, you just need to choose the most suitable one.

Spoiled by a wide choice, customers are looking for non-standard solutions that will make the decor of the room beautiful and original. One of them is wallpaper for the bathroom. Of course, not every wallpaper is suitable for such a finish. How not to make a mistake in choosing? We’ll figure out.

Article content:

  • Wallpaper in the bathroom: is it worth it?
  • Humidity zones: where can wallpaper be hung?
  • What types of wallpaper can be used?
    • Option #1: Washable wallpaper
    • Option #2: Glass wallpaper
    • Option #3: Liquid wallpaper
  • Conclusions on the topic

Wallpaper in the bathroom: is it worth it?

The best material for decorating bathrooms is ceramic tiles, because they are moisture resistant, durable, and also beautiful.

Wallpaper for the bathroom is a practical and very beautiful solution. Properly selected moisture-resistant panels will last a long time and make the bathroom stylish and elegant. If you calculate the cost per square meter of the finished coating, the most budget tile will cost more than high-quality wallpaper.

  • Save on the work of the wizard. Only a professional can lay tiles or apply decorative plaster on the walls, while even an inexperienced home master can glue wallpaper.
  • Save time. The laying of the tiles will take several days, possibly weeks. Whereas the wallpaper will “fall” into place in one day, a maximum of two.
  • Recreate any style you like. A rich assortment of canvases with different textures, colors and designs allows you to choose the most unusual decorative solutions.
  • Easy to replace boring or spoiled design. It is very easy to remove old wallpaper and replace it with new one. In a couple of days, the bath will delight its owner with a new interior.
  • The main disadvantage of decorating the walls in the bathroom with wallpaper is their instability to moisture, which is very abundant in the bathroom.

    The best material for decorating bathrooms is ceramic tiles, because they are moisture resistant, durable, and also beautiful.

    Indeed, traditional paper-based panels do not withstand not only water, but even contact with moist air. However, there are special wallpapers designed for finishing wet rooms. It is they who should be chosen for gluing in the bathrooms.

    In addition, special attention should be paid to the adhesive. It should also be designed for rooms with high humidity, otherwise the composition will absorb moisture, swell and come through the coating with ugly dirty spots.

    Even moisture-resistant sheets must be protected from water. Surfaces that come into direct contact with water are best covered with tiles, plastic panels and similar materials

    Humidity zones: where can wallpaper be hung?

    Experienced builders will attest that bathroom humidity levels vary. There are more “wet” and more “dry” areas, which must be taken into account when wallpapering. If the tile or plaster can withstand any impact, then decorative panels in some cases need to be preserved.

    There are four humidity zones in the bathroom:

    • The inside of the shower and the area above the bath. This is the most “wet” area where it is not recommended to glue the wallpaper. Even the most moisture-resistant panels will get wet and deteriorate here. This area can be tiled or painted.
    • Section of the wall above the bath, starting above 25 cm from its rim. Quite a humid area, where large splashes of water reach. Here you can already stick liquid and glass wallpapers. It is important to choose types of linen that will withstand frequent cleaning, because this area gets dirty pretty quickly.
    • Fragment of a wall located 60 cm to the right and left of the edge of the bathtub or the edge of the shower. Relatively dry area with occasional splashes of water. Suitable for all types of waterproof wallpaper.
    • The driest zone starting from the edge of the previous section. Here, wallpaper panels are not threatened by anything other than condensate. You can glue any moisture resistant wallpaper.

    Wallpaper for the bathroom is a good way to create an exclusive interior. The picture shows a decorative panel made using liquid wallpaper of different colors and textures

    What types of wallpaper can be used?

    Finding wallpaper for your bathroom is easy. There are several types of panels that are specifically designed for use in wet areas. Let’s consider them in more detail.

    Option #1: Washable wallpaper

    Washable wallpaper is a group of wallpapers intended for application in rooms with high humidity. Their feature is a special coating that makes them wear-resistant. It also does not allow the panels to “breathe”, therefore, in rooms pasted over with such wallpaper, there should be good ventilation.

    Material advantages include:

    • Versatility. Suitable for sticking to plaster, concrete, drywall and any other surface.
    • Long service life, which is about 10-15 years.
    • Easy care. Easy to clean with a damp cloth, if necessary, you can use a sponge and detergent.
    • Easy to apply and just as easy to remove from walls.

    You need to understand that washable wallpapers come in various types, so when choosing them it is important to pay attention to the markings. The letters on the label will tell you what material was used to make the panels:

    • BB – foamed vinyl;
    • RV – embossed vinyl;
    • PV – flat vinyl;
    • STR – structural canvas for painting;
    • STL – fiberglass.

    In addition, all washable wallpapers are divided into types depending on the degree of moisture resistance. The following marking is used here:

    • Straight line. Moisture resistant wallpaper, they are not intended for washing. When gluing, it is allowed to remove excess glue with a damp sponge.
    • Two lines. The panels can be washed using mild detergents.
    • Three lines. The so-called “super washable” wallpaper. To clean them, you can use a sponge and saturated soap solutions.
    • Brush and line. Such panels can be treated with detergent and a stiff brush.
    • Brush and three lines. Particularly durable wallpaper with high abrasion resistance.

    For bathrooms, you should choose at least super-washable sheets, and even better – wallpaper that can be washed with a brush.

    In addition, it is better not to choose models with a pronounced texture, because from frequent washing, which is inevitable in the bathroom, they will quickly lose their appearance.

    Pay particular attention to the joints of washable wallpaper. To prevent them from coming apart, you can lay narrow paper strips under them, coat them with glue again and roll them on with a rubber roller. In general terms, the procedure for sticking moisture-resistant wallpaper is as follows:

    • We calculate the number of whole strips. To do this, we divide the length of our wall by the width of the wallpaper roll. We cut off the required number of panels, not forgetting to add 50 mm of strip length for trimming.
    • We mark the line for gluing the first strip. To do this, use a plumb line or building level. Do not forget that we are starting to glue the wallpaper from the window, so all the joints will be less noticeable.
    • Apply glue to the first strip with a roller or brush and, if required by the manufacturer, fold it with the smeared side inward and leave it to soak. Coat the wall with glue.
    • Lay wallpaper soaked with glue on the wall, aligning the edge with the marking line. With a wide roller we press and roll the wallpaper against the wall, removing all air bubbles. Raise the canvas a little from the bottom and top, cut it and glue it again.
    • Glue the remaining strips in the same way. At the same time, we strictly monitor that there are no overlaps at the edges. Joints can be additionally glued with a special compound and rolled with a narrow roller.

    Moisture-resistant wallpaper is heavier than usual, which should be taken into account when choosing an adhesive. You should listen to the manufacturer’s recommendations and select only special compositions: for vinyl, acrylic, interlining, and so on.

    In the manufacture of fiberglass wallpapers, they are given a relief texture, which is very well emphasized by painting. Standard panels can withstand up to 15 stains, allowing the owner to change the look of the bathroom as often as he wants

    Option #2: Fiberglass

    Fiberglass wallpaper is one of the most practical and functional finishes. For their manufacture, fiberglass or the finest glass threads are used. Depending on the method of production, the texture of the canvas will be different. If it is woven on a conventional loom, the material will be almost smooth.

    Special feature of gluing fiberglass wallpapers: the glue is applied only to the wall, not to the canvas

    Interesting relief fabrics are obtained after processing the threads on a special jacquard loom. Smooth panels are less dense, so they are rarely used for finishing. For decoration, heavier and denser embossed canvases are most often chosen. Advantages of cullet:

    • Absolute safety. The material is completely environmentally friendly, since it contains natural substances: clay, quartz sand, soda and dolomite.
    • Hypoallergenic. The canvas does not attract dust.
    • High moisture resistance. Fiberglass wallpapers do not lose their properties under the influence of moisture and are not afraid of it.
    • Breathable. The material “breathes”, which prevents the appearance of fungus and mold under the coating.
    • Ability to apply several layers of paint, on average, the canvas withstands 15-20 paints.
    • Easy to coat.

    High-quality fiberglass wallpapers are devoid of significant shortcomings. Masters do not advise buying cheap analogues. Low-quality panels do not even withstand deployment and crack right in the hands. The technology of gluing glass fiber is very simple.

    However, there are a few things to be aware of:

    • Only wear long sleeves and protective gloves when handling fiberglass sheets. Glass fibers crumble when cut and, if they get on the skin, cause irritation.
    • The front and back sides of the wallpaper are different. Usually they are wound inside the front side.
    • Walls must be treated with a weak adhesive solution or primed before gluing glass wall papers.
    • Such wallpapers are considered heavy, so special compositions must be used to stick them.

    Applying fiberglass wallpaper in the bathroom is almost the same as applying washable wallpaper. The only difference is that the cloth does not need to be coated with glue. It is applied directly to the wall. The strips are glued end-to-end, the adhesive drops that have come out are removed with a clean, dry cloth.

    Liquid wallpaper for the bathroom is a dry mixture, which is diluted in certain proportions with plain water. After swelling and thorough mixing, the coating is ready for use

    After gluing, glass wall papers are most often painted using styrene-butadiene or acrylic paint.

    Option #3: Liquid wallpaper

    This type of wallpaper is a special type of decorative plaster based on cellulose fiber. The binder is CMC glue. In addition, the composition of liquid wallpaper may include all kinds of additives that affect the texture and appearance of the coating.

    These can be: cotton, natural silk, seaweed, plant bark, wool, and so on. The advantages of liquid wallpaper include:

    • No seams. The result of their application is an ideal smooth surface, while when gluing ordinary panels, the seams will be noticeable.
    • Environmentally friendly. The composition of the material includes natural fibers, absolutely safe for humans. Liquid wallpaper is hypoallergenic and does not attract dust.
    • Undemanding to the quality of the base. The coating is able to hide small wall defects. In addition, it can be applied in a new home. Shrinkage design liquid wallpaper is not terrible.
    • The ability to “breathe”, which prevents the “greenhouse effect” and, as a consequence, the occurrence of mold and mildew.
    • Good sound and heat insulation.
    • Maintainability. The coating must not be washed with aggressive detergents and rubbed with a brush. However, stains are very easy to deal with. It is necessary to cut out the damaged piece and apply a new layer of liquid wallpaper.
    • Large selection of colors and textures. Depending on the additives added to the base, such wallpapers can have a very different look and texture.
    • Easy to apply and remove coating. The special structure of the wallpaper allows it to be applied to any surface, up to pipes of different diameters. At the same time, the coating lays down tightly, without folds and creases.

    The disadvantage of liquid wallpaper can be considered a relatively high cost. However, if we take into account the sufficiently long service life of the material, rather low consumption and maintainability, we can conclude that in terms of per square meter of the wall, the cost is not so sky-high.

    Renovating liquid wallpaper is very easy. It is necessary to cut out the damaged area and apply a new composition to it. Seams and joints on the coating will not remain

    The application of such a coating is not difficult. The procedure is as follows:

    1. Preparing the walls. To do this, remove the old coating, carefully putty all cracks and other defects. To reduce material consumption, the base is primed with any suitable composition.
    2. Strictly following the instructions, prepare the solution for application. To do this, fill the dry mixture with water and wait until it dissolves. After 20 minutes, mix the composition well, it is ready for use.
    3. We take a spatula or a plastic trowel and apply liquid wallpaper on the wall in the direction from corner to corner. In this case, you should not press the tool hard, otherwise the material will be compressed and the coating texture will disappear. The application layer should be about 1-4 mm, it depends on the type of filler.
    4. We level the finished surface with a special plastic float.
    5. Leave the coating to dry for 48 hours. The room where the wallpaper dries should be well ventilated.

    Another “minus” is the sensitivity to moisture, so you need to choose a special coating for the bathroom. It has a special label. If there are doubts about the moisture resistance of liquid wallpaper, after application they are covered with a protective layer of varnish.

    Liquid wallpaper is applied to the wall with a spatula or trowel. Even a novice finisher can cope with such work

    Conclusions on the topic

    What kind of wallpaper to paste in the bathroom? The choice is up to the owner of the premises. They can be any, the main thing is that a moisture-resistant option is chosen. Such a coating will be not only attractive, but also functional, and, most importantly, inexpensive. Buying wallpaper will not empty the family wallet, and you can stick the panels on your own.

    That’s why many people choose wallpaper for their bathroom, even if it seems absurd. A wide range of wallpapers allows you to choose the best option for any style room. At the same time, changing the interior decor will be very simple – just replace the wallpaper.

    Post Views: 481

    photos, reviews, moisture-proof, washable, self-adhesive, is it possible to wallpaper in the bathroom, pigmented primer, video

    Contents

    1. Wallpaper for the bathroom: typical mistakes and the right choice
    2. Which wallpaper can be used in the bathroom?
    3. Moisture-resistant wallpaper for bathtubs: ideas
    4. Washable wallpaper for the bathroom
    5. Self-adhesive bathroom wallpaper
    6. Bathroom walls with fiberglass wallpaper
    7. How to glue glass wallpaper (video)
    8. Self-adhesive wallpaper for bathtub, photo wallpaper
    9. How to hang combined wallpaper: original bathroom decoration
    10. Pigmented wallpaper primer, adhesion compound
    11. Wallpaper for the bathroom: reviews of different types
    12. Reasons for wallpapering in the bathroom (video)
    13. Examples of wallpaper for the bathroom (photo)

    Every detail in the house should please its owner: that’s why even the bathroom should be wallpaperedModern technologies are able to create wall coverings that are resistant to moisture. Wall decoration can become simple, fast and high-quality if you use wallpaper for pasting the bathroom. Until recently, when renovating a bathroom, only ceramic tiles were used, because there were no sufficiently durable and waterproof wallpapers. But now moisture-resistant wallpapers are widely used to create beautiful and cozy bathroom interiors.

    Is it possible to glue wallpaper in the bathroom: solution of the problem

    A bathroom is a room where specific requirements are imposed on any coating. Ordinary wallpaper, vinyl, non-woven or paper can not be glued to the walls in the bathroom. As a result of exposure to water, the finish will gradually lose its presentable appearance, the wallpaper in the bathroom will begin to peel off, swell and bubble. Only special coatings are suitable for wall application.

    The bathroom needs a special wallpaper that repels moisture and dust

    Even if the instructions say that the wallpaper is moisture resistant, it is better not to use it on the wall that gets the most water when you shower.

    It is also better to cover the place above the sink with a tile or a plastic panel. There are colors that imitate wallpaper covering, tiles for wallpaper. Often collections of finishing materials for bathrooms contain both tiles and wallpapers in the same style. Such ready-made options greatly facilitate the task of choosing. With the help of different finishing materials, you can harmoniously divide the bathroom into zones, creatively delimit the space, highlight the accent wall. In order for the repair to last for a long time without restoration, you need to choose materials wisely. What wallpaper to choose for the bathroom?

    Bathroom wallpaper: common mistakes and the right choice

    Water resistance is not the only thing you need to pay attention to. Be sure to consider the material from which the coating is made. Sometimes manufacturers, in order to sell a product, indicate high moisture resistance even for paper wallpapers, which, in principle, cannot be. Disappointed buyers after a few years have only negative reviews about such wallpapers. Repairs have to be redone, and these are new expenses.

    You should not trust one hundred percent the seller in a hardware store: you can find out for yourself whether the wallpaper is moisture resistant using a special marking on the wallpaper important.

    Which wallpaper can be used in the bathroom?

    If the renovation is to be carried out for a long time, only wallpaper made of good materials should be chosen.

    Materials :

    • Vinyl;
    • Interlining;
    • Glass fiber;
    • Liquid wallpaper.

    Liquid wallpaper is not recommended for the bathroom: they are afraid of moisture and water

    In any damp room, there is an increased likelihood of mold on the walls. To prevent wallpaper from rotting, you need to treat the walls well with a specialized anti-fungal agent before gluing.

    Moisture-resistant wallpaper for bathtubs: ideas

    There are no restrictions on the choice of wallpaper color and texture.

    Wallpaper in the bathroom can be :

    1. Flat or embossed;
    2. Smooth or rough;
    3. Matte or glossy;
    4. Patterned, gradient or plain;
    5. Embossed, patterned or plain.

    Most of the wall murals are state of the art so they can be used in the bathroom

    You need to choose according to your author’s intention. Bathroom design is an opportunity to show imagination, to realize your personal ideas in the interior.

    Washable wallpaper for the bathroom

    This type of flooring has the important advantage of being very easy to care for. You still have to periodically clean the walls, because in the bathroom there are white stains on the walls from drying water. Washable wallpaper can be cleaned with a sponge and soap.

    Self-adhesive bathroom wallpaper

    Wallpaper glue that gets on the front side of the canvas spoils the appearance. Such stains can only be removed while they are fresh, but it is not always possible to notice them immediately. The problem of old glue stains leads to a reworking of the repair, because yellow stains and drops are annoying.

    If you buy self-adhesive wallpapers, you can save on primer

    Self-adhesive wallpapers already have a compound for adhesion to the walls on the back, so their gluing goes with a guaranteed good result.

    Bathroom walls with fiberglass wallpaper

    Wallpaper that can be painted in any color you like and repainted every season is made of fiberglass. The embossed surface perfectly holds the paint, the color change can be carried out up to 15 times.

    Fiberglass wallpaper is ideal for places where there is a high risk of fungus and mold growth

    Wallpaper has the important advantage of reinforcing the wall with a strong mesh cover. If the bathroom is in such an old house as Khrushchev, this option is the best.

    How to glue glass wallpaper (video)

    Self-adhesive wallpaper in the bath, photo wallpaper

    You can brightly and cheerfully decorate the walls with the help of photo reproductions and photographs on the wallpaper. On sale there are beautiful options with tropical landscapes, the azure sea, palm trees, sea dwellings and coral reefs. Non-woven, vinyl or fiberglass can serve as the basis for photo wallpaper. Only fiberglass wallpaper can be used on the wall directly above the bathtub.

    Photo wallpapers with landscapes or animals are best suited

    An interesting move is a photo wallpaper divided into square segments, like a tile. Such wallpapers can be combined with plain tiles.

    How to hang combined wallpaper: original bathroom decoration

    The use of different colors and materials makes the interior unique. In addition to the combination of tiles and wallpaper, you can use a combination of 2 types of wallpaper.

    When combining wallpapers, you should choose wallpapers of the same type so that there are no problems with sticking wallpapers of different types

    With this solution, you can :

    • Protect the wettest walls with waterproofing wallpaper;
    • Divide the bathroom into zones;
    • Bring out the beautiful color of an accent wall with neutral color framing.

    Wall decoration with 2 types of wallpaper requires care. You can glue the combined wallpaper and achieve a good result if you carefully read the instructions on the package. Each type of wallpaper has its own subtleties. You should pay attention to the allowance, the sequence of the location of the paintings, shrinkage and stretching of the wallpaper.

    Pigmented primer for wallpaper, adhesion compound

    Preparation of walls for pasting must be done with preliminary priming.

    Primer improves many properties of the wall surface and protects it from mold

    Primer performs the functions

  • Improving resistance to humidity and temperature changes;
  • Strong adhesion of wallpaper to the plane of the wall;
  • Protection against fungus, mold.
  • For ease of application, the primer contains a pigment that changes color as it dries. Fresh primer may be bluish, pinkish or white, while dried becomes transparent. By changing the color, you can control drying and remove drips and smudges from the wall in a timely manner.

    Wallpaper for the bathroom: reviews of different types

    Guests of the apartment always note the originality and beauty of the repair. Using wallpaper in the bathroom is an unusual move that surprises many. If the walls are not strong enough, then they are strengthened with fiberglass, which gives a rich and radiant color to the paint after painting.

    The most preferred types of wallpaper for the bathroom are non-woven and fiberglass: the first and high-quality, and inexpensive; the latter are able to reinforce the wall in the bathroom

    In new homes, you can choose non-woven or vinyl washable wallpapers.