Linear Web - Geometric Wallpaper - Pearl

The short answer is probably, but it depends on the bathroom and the type of wallpaper you use.
There’s no such thing as a dedicated "bathroom wallpaper", but many wallpapers can be used in a bathroom if the conditions are right. The key things to consider are ventilation, placement, exposure to steam and water, and the wallpaper's durability rating. In a well-ventilated bathroom, wallpaper can last for years, but in areas with constant moisture or direct water contact, you might run into issues.

Wallpaper Ratings for Wet Areas

Wallpapers are rated based on durability and washability, which can help determine if they’re suitable for a bathroom. Ideally, you should use a wallpaper with an Extra Washable or higher rating, as these are more resistant to moisture and easier to clean.

✔ Spongeable – Can handle light cleaning with a damp sponge but is not suitable for high-moisture areas.
✔ Washable – Can be cleaned with mild soapy water but should still be placed in low-moisture zones.
✔ Extra Washable – More resistant to moisture and easier to clean, making it better suited for bathrooms.
✔ Scrubbable – The most durable option, designed to withstand scrubbing and cleaning. These are usually vinyl wallpapers, making them the best choice for bathrooms.

If the bathroom is well-ventilated and the wallpaper is not in a high-contact area, you might get away with using a lower-rated wallpaper. However, if the wallpaper is likely to be roughed up—such as behind a towel rail or in a space where kids are frequently touching the walls—choosing a higher durability rating will help it last longer.

Things to Consider Before Wallpapering a Bathroom

✔ Ventilation is key – A well-ventilated bathroom (with an extractor fan or windows) is essential to prevent moisture buildup, which can cause peeling or mold growth behind the wallpaper.
✔ Placement matters – Wallpaper works best in low-splash areas, such as above tile wainscoting, outside of shower zones, or on feature walls. Avoid areas where it will be regularly exposed to water, such as behind towel rails, directly above sinks, or inside showers.
✔ Choose the right wallpaper type –

• Vinyl and extra-washable wallpapers are more resistant to moisture and can be wiped clean.
• Textured or paper-based wallpapers may absorb moisture and are more prone to damage.

✔ Sealing wallpaper edges – In extreme cases, sealing wallpaper edges with a clear decorator’s varnish can provide extra protection, but this is usually not necessary.

What If My Bathroom is Very Steamy?

If your bathroom lacks proper ventilation or tends to stay steamy for long periods, wallpaper may not be the best choice. High humidity and excess moisture can cause the adhesive to break down over time, leading to peeling, bubbling, or mold growth behind the wallpaper. In these cases, alternative wall finishes like tiles or moisture-resistant paint may be a better option.

Final Verdict

The short answer is probably—but it depends on the bathroom and the type of wallpaper. You can use wallpaper in a bathroom if it is well-ventilated, placed away from direct water exposure, and has a high washability rating. Vinyl or extra-washable wallpapers are the best options, and choosing the right placement is key to longevity.
If your bathroom has good airflow and the wallpaper won’t be in a high-contact area, you might get away with using a lower-rated wallpaper. However, if the wallpaper is likely to be touched, bumped, or exposed to minor splashes, choosing a higher durability rating will help it last longer.
If the space is constantly steamy or wet, wallpaper may not be the best choice, and a moisture-resistant alternative may be a better long-term solution.

That said, when in doubt, most people go with what they love. The worst-case scenario? The wallpaper doesn’t hold up, and you remove it. But this is not something we hear happing often.

Yes, you can hang wallpaper yourself! Many modern wallpapers are designed for DIY installation, and with the right tools, preparation, and patience, you can achieve a great result.

However, your expectations and attention to detail matter. If you’re someone who notices every tiny imperfection, then a professional may be the better option. If you’re happy with a good but not necessarily flawless result, then DIY is a great choice!

When is wallpapering a DIY job?

✅ You're using paste-the-wall wallpaper – This type is the easiest to install and reposition.
✅ You're confident with basic DIY skills like measuring and cutting – You don’t need to be a professional, but accuracy is important.
✅ Your walls are smooth and prepared – Uneven surfaces can make wallpapering much harder.
✅ You have realistic expectations – A DIY job might not be 100% perfect, but it can still look fantastic.
With the right tools, preparation, and care, hanging wallpaper yourself can be cost-effective and rewarding!

When should you consider hiring a professional?

🔹 The wallpaper has a complex pattern repeat – Some patterns require precise alignment, which can be tricky.
🔹 You're working with paste-the-paper wallpaper – This requires soaking time and is harder to work with.
🔹 You’re wallpapering a ceiling – Installing wallpaper overhead is difficult and physically demanding.
🔹 Your walls are textured, damaged, or uneven – A professional can prep the walls properly to ensure the best result.
🔹 You want a high-end finish – If imperfections are going to worry you, then a professional installer may be worth the investment - but let them know you're expectations up front.

What’s the verdict?

👉 If you’re confident with DIY, go for it! Just take your time, follow the instructions carefully, and prepare your walls properly. We've had 80 years wallpaper for the first time and love the results!

👉 If the wallpaper is complex, expensive, or in a tricky area, a professional installer may be worth considering to avoid costly mistakes.
Still unsure? Contact us, and we’ll help you decide whether your wallpaper is DIY-friendly or best left to a pro!