How Do You Install Wallpaper in a Bathroom Properly?
Giffywalls
Wallpaper can instantly transform a space from bland and basic to bold and breathtaking. But when it comes to installing wallpaper in high-moisture areas like the bathroom, many homeowners hesitate. Is it practical? Will it last? The good news is: yes, you can absolutely install wallpaper in a bathroom if you do it the right way.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the proper steps to install wallpaper in a bathroom and make it both stylish and durable. Plus, we'll explore some inspiring design tips and trends to help you elevate your bathroom into a true sanctuary.
1. Choose the Right Wallpaper Type
Not all wallpapers are created equal, especially in a humid environment. For bathrooms, you’ll want to use:
Vinyl wallpaper: Moisture-resistant and easy to clean.
Peel-and-stick wallpaper: Ideal for DIYers and renters, and now widely available in moisture-tolerant materials.
Bathroom-specific wallpaper: Specially treated to resist mold and mildew.
Avoid traditional paper-based wallpapers unless you're using them in a powder room with minimal humidity.
2. Prepare the Walls Properly
Good prep is half the battle. Here’s what to do:
Clean the walls thoroughly to remove any dust, soap scum, or mildew.
Repair and smooth out any imperfections bumps and holes will be noticeable under wallpaper.
Prime the walls using a mold-resistant primer, especially if you're applying the wallpaper to drywall or plaster. This helps the adhesive bond better and protects the wall.
3. Measure Twice, Cut Once
Measure your walls and cut the wallpaper into panels before installation. Be sure to match the pattern across panels if using a design with a repeat. Always cut with an extra inch or two at the top and bottom you can trim the excess once it’s up.
4. Apply the Wallpaper
Depending on the type of wallpaper, follow one of these methods:
For pre-pasted wallpaper: Soak the paper as directed and activate the adhesive.
For unpasted wallpaper: Apply wallpaper paste to either the wall or the back of the wallpaper, depending on the manufacturer’s instructions.
For peel-and-stick wallpaper: Peel off the backing and apply slowly, smoothing as you go to avoid bubbles.
Use a plastic smoother or squeegee to eliminate air bubbles and ensure a tight seal. Trim excess paper around the edges and fixtures with a sharp utility knife.
5. Seal the Edges
In high-moisture zones like near a sink, tub, or shower apply a clear wallpaper seam sealer or a thin line of waterproof caulk along the edges. This step prevents moisture from getting under the wallpaper and causing it to peel.
6. Ventilate the Bathroom
Proper ventilation is key to extending the life of your wallpaper. Always use an exhaust fan during and after showers to reduce moisture buildup.
Design Ideas to Inspire You
Once you've nailed the installation, it's time to play with style. Want to make your bathroom more luxurious, bold, or calming? Wallpapers offer endless design flexibility.
For dramatic flair, consider a mural-style wallpaper. These large-scale designs can turn one bathroom wall into a breathtaking focal point. Need ideas? Check out this article on mural wallpaper impact for inspiration on how to use murals effectively.
If you're chasing trends, you’re in luck. The 2025 wallpaper landscape is full of exciting options, from botanical prints to textured 3D designs. Explore the top wallpaper trends for 2025 to find what suits your bathroom vibe best.
And for those who love making bold visual statements, don't miss this guide on styling 3D wallpaper. It’s a fantastic way to add depth and character to smaller spaces like bathrooms.
Final Thoughts
Installing wallpaper in a bathroom isn’t just possible it’s a stylish and rewarding DIY upgrade. With the right materials, prep, and moisture protection, your bathroom can enjoy the same design sophistication as any other room in the house. Whether you're sourcing unique prints or waterproof designs, an online wallpaper store can offer a wide selection to match your vision. From serene spa vibes to high-drama design, wallpaper opens up a world of creative potential in your bathroom.
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Written by
Giffywalls
Giffywalls
Giffywalls is the best wallpaper designer and manufacturer company in the world. Customize your walls, rooms, offices, bedrooms, bathrooms, living room, pantry, hallway, kitchen, kid's room, girl's room, and boy's room with our trending peel and stick wallpaper! Giffywalls is the world’s most trusted brand for wallpaper for walls in the USA, UK, UAE, Canada, France, Germany, and Australia. Our team loves designing new wallpaper and delivering it to your door with the fastest shipping process in under 1 week! Giffywalls believes in the quality of its products. They're not just another company trying to make a quick buck, they invest heavily into research and development so that each product is made with care from start to finish! Gift Your Walls brings you beautiful murals or paper walls which will transform any room within your home - all while giving it an instant update thanks largely due to its speedy shipping process where orders are shipped out ASAP after being processed by our team here at Giffywalls. Giffywalls is the best online store for custom wallpapers for walls, rooms, houses, offices, bathrooms, bedrooms, kitchens, nurseries, and dining rooms in all major nations across the world, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada. We offer custom wallpaper in the following styles: forest, world map, abstract, artistic, geometric, industrial, striped, watercolor, vintage, luxurious, classic, mountain, animal, concrete, wood, brick, marble, flower, floral, natural, jungle, leaf, leaves, tropical, botanical, cartoon, damask, Scandinavian, Retro, Zen, tile, and metal effect look wallpapers.