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Did you know that wallpaper has a rich, centuries-old history in interior design? It was first manufactured in China in the 17th century and gained popularity in the West, particularly in France, during the 1700s. Despite some considering it outdated, wallpaper has remained a favorite in home decor around the world and is commonly used as an alternative to paint, especially in bathrooms.
This article will explore various wallpaper for bathrooms ideas and the best types of wallpaper to use in the bathroom. We’ll discuss the ideal prints and colors for using wallpaper in a bathroom, and in the final sections, we’ll provide tips and tricks for successfully using wallpaper in a bathroom.
Is All Wallpaper Created Equal?
Before you redo your wallpaper or put some up for the first time, it’s essential to consider that there are different types available. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages, making it either a great or poor choice for a bathroom. Let’s quickly review the most common types of wallpaper.
Printed Wallpaper
Printed wallpaper, also known as traditional wallpaper, is what most people imagine when they think of wallpaper. It is generally mass-produced, so it tends to be low quality and easily tears. It’s not recommended for a powder room because the ink used for the patterns is water-based, which means the designs can smudge due to steam and water sprays.
Mylar Wallpaper
Mylar wallpaper contains a printed paper layer and an added polyester film, which makes it washable and water-resistant. It’s a good option for bathroom wallpaper, but keep in mind that it can accentuate any wall defects.
Grasscloth and Bamboo Wallpaper
These types of wallpaper are made from plants and can create a stunning statement wall. Grasscloth wallpaper is woven from materials like cork, reed, and hemp, while bamboo wallpaper is made by attaching fibers to paper. Since they are made from natural, primarily untreated materials, these wallpaper options are not suitable for wet and humid environments. They are best used in living rooms or bedrooms. Grasscloth typically runs vertically, so there may be some variation from roll to roll when applied to your wall. This variation should be seen as a beautiful characteristic rather than a flaw.
Vinyl Wallpaper
Vinyl wallpaper is currently the most popular and widely used option. It is made from layers of printed wallpaper and vinyl, making it durable, highly water-resistant, and easy to clean, which is why it’s ideal for a bathroom. Moreover, most vinyl wallpapers are peel-and-stick, also known as removable wallpaper, making them easy to apply.
“Picking out the right wallpaper can be a daunting task. I can help you select the right pattern and product for your bathroom or any room in your home make a statement about you.” – Sandy Schuster, Rooms By Sandy
Choosing the Best Bathroom Wallpaper Designs: Color and Pattern Options
Make sure to choose waterproof wallpaper like vinyl or mylar for a powder room. Once you have the type you need, it’s time to have some fun – pick a design you like. While there are no strict rules about colors and patterns, you can follow some general guidelines for the best results.
Solid Colors
Most people prefer decorating their walls in just one color. This works perfectly for bathrooms, which you don’t want to feel busy or chaotic. Some favorite shades include:
Monochrome
Pure white wallpaper is an excellent choice for creating a clean atmosphere in a bathroom. Alternatively, you can opt for dark charcoal or black wallpaper for a modern and dramatic look.
Cool Greens and Blues
Mint or sage green are fantastic for giving a bathroom a floral and natural feel, while baby blue or periwinkle work well to create a sense of calm and relaxation, similar to a spa. If you prefer cool colors but like neutrals, ash gray works well in bathrooms. It’s widely known that these shades create feelings of relaxation and peace, making green and blue wallpaper perfect for your spa-like room.
Warm Yellows and Oranges
Don’t worry; we’re not referring to the bright sunset colors. A soft champagne, blush, or peach shade can create a cozy and inviting atmosphere in a bathroom without being too flashy. If you prefer warmth but don’t want intense colors, consider using sandy beige or cream.
Patterns
When it comes to exploring wallpaper for bathrooms ideas, the options are limitless. You can choose a simple monochromatic pattern in a neutral, cool, or warm shade or get bold with bright geometric designs. Don’t be afraid to express your personal style! Floral or botanical wallpaper can add flair as an accent wall, while stone, tile, or marble designs offer a chic look without maintenance.
How to Choose the Right Wallpaper Based on the Size of Your Bathroom
When choosing colors and patterns for your bathroom, keep in mind that certain shades and wallpaper designs can make a small bathroom feel more spacious. For small powder rooms, opt for large-scale prints of geometric shapes to create the illusion of a bigger space. These large designs trick the mind into perceiving more surface area than there actually is.
In contrast, small and intricate prints can make a room feel more confined and should be limited to a feature wall or a portion of one wall. Textured wallpaper that mimics materials such as bricks, wood, or unpolished concrete can also make a small space seem larger.
In terms of color, lighter shades are preferred because they reflect light, making the room feel more expansive. On the other hand, darker wallpaper absorbs light, creating a smaller, more confined feel. Therefore, opting for pale hues and white wallpaper is always a safe choice.
How To Install Your New Wallpaper With Ease
Now that you have chosen the perfect wallpaper, it’s time to get it up! Applying wallpaper can sometimes be a laborious task, so it’s best to take the necessary precautions to avoid complications and potentially having to redo your walls in the future.
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Remove and Smooth
To prepare your blank walls, start by smoothing them and removing any nails, hooks, and filling holes. Then, sand down the walls as needed to create an even surface. Wallpaper adheres better to perfectly flat walls, preventing water from seeping into gaps and forming mold.
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Clean and Prime
First, thoroughly clean the wall. A simple sugar scrub is often effective. If there is glossy paint on the wall, remove it with a hot water and vinegar solution. (Eggshell and satin paints are fine, but latex paint should not be used with wallpaper.) After the walls are smooth and clean, you can apply a plain white primer to seal them.
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Paste and Stick
Your walls are ready for wallpaper! If you’re using peel-and-stick wallpaper (which is suitable for bathrooms because it’s vinyl), the process will be pretty straightforward as the sheets have an adhesive layer attached. It’s as simple as removing the film and applying the wallpaper directly to the wall, like putting a screen protector on a phone.
If you opt for the traditional paste-the-wall option that requires glue, the process might be more labor-intensive. In this case, you’ll need a paint roller to apply paste to the wall before putting the wallpaper on top of it. Regardless of the style you choose, it’s a good idea to use a brush to smooth the paper as you roll it out.
You can put wallpaper over tiles, but it’s crucial to ensure that the tiles are clean and firmly fixed to the wall. Depending on the height of the tiles, you may need to fill in the grouting to even out the wall. If your tiles are very glossy, you will need to sand them down so that the wallpaper can stick to them properly.
In summary, vinyl and mylar wallpaper are the best options for a bathroom wall due to their high water resistance. Light colors and large-scale patterns can create the illusion of a larger space in a small bathroom, while dark shades are perfect for adding elegance and style. It’s important to prepare your walls before applying wallpaper by filling any dents, sanding the surface, and using a sealing primer to prevent mold growth. Peel-and-stick wallpaper is suitable for bathrooms, and you can also put wallpaper over tiles as long as you prepare them properly.
Final Thoughts
In 2023, the wallpaper market was worth USD 1.80 billion globally. It is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.4% from 2024 to 2030. The wallpaper market is being driven by the increased popularity of home renovation projects, new printing techniques, and a surge in DIY projects. These same factors are boosting demand for wall coverings in residential and commercial properties. Increased disposable income and changing consumer preferences are also expected to spur wallpaper demand in the coming years.
Exploring different wallpaper for bathrooms ideas can transform your bathroom into a stylish and inviting space. From water-resistant vinyl to luxurious mylar, there are plenty of options to suit both functional and aesthetic needs. Light shades and large-scale patterns can open up small bathrooms, while darker tones and rich textures add elegance to larger areas. By selecting the right materials and preparing your walls properly, you can enjoy a beautiful bathroom that stands the test of time.
Want Professional Help?
Ready to give your bathroom a fresh, new look with custom design ideas? At Rooms By Sandy, we specialize in creating luxurious and personalized spaces tailored to your unique style. Contact us today for a consultation, and let’s make your dream bathroom a reality.
