If you're wondering, "Can I put wallpaper on any wall?"—you’re definitely not alone. With the rise of peel and stick options and renter-friendly wallpaper solutions, more people are rethinking what’s possible when it comes to decorating their walls. The short answer? Yes, you can wallpaper most walls—but there are a few things to consider first.
1. Start by Checking the Wall Surface
Not all walls are created equal. Wallpaper works best on smooth, clean, and dry surfaces. If your wall is textured, like with a heavy orange peel or knockdown finish, the wallpaper might not stick properly—or worse, it might peel off sooner than you'd like.
For textured or tricky surfaces, you might want to use thicker wallpaper styles like wood wallpaper for a cosy look, which can disguise imperfections better than thin paper.
2. Can You Wallpaper Bathroom Walls?
Yes, but moisture matters. If you’re thinking of sprucing up your bathroom, go for moisture-resistant wallpaper types. Many people are opting for peel and stick wallpaper in small bathrooms to avoid messy glue and get a fast refresh.
For example, these small bathroom wallpaper ideas show how the right wallpaper can visually open up a space, even in humid areas—just make sure there’s good ventilation.
3. Is Wallpaper Okay for Rented Apartments?
Absolutely! In fact, renters are loving peel and stick options because they’re non-permanent and won’t damage the wall underneath.
If you're renting, check out this guide on renter-friendly solution to get ideas that won’t cost your bond when you move out. There are wallpapers now that look high-end but come off easily when it's time to go.
4. Even Feature Walls Can Handle Wallpaper
Thinking about doing just one wall? Go for it. Whether it's a floral feature wall in the dining room or a mural behind your bed, wallpaper lets you create serious style with minimal effort.
Need inspiration? This article on how to style floral wallpaper breaks down how to pair patterns and colours for that "just right" vibe.
5. What About Wallpaper on Damaged or Painted Walls?
If your wall has peeling paint or old wallpaper residue, you’ll need to prep it first. Light sanding and cleaning go a long way. Wallpaper doesn’t like sticking to unstable surfaces, and you’ll only end up frustrated if you skip this step.
For older walls or darker paint, mural wallpaper can be a great cover-up. In fact, mural wallpaper has a big impact and can help disguise flaws while totally transforming the space.
6. So, What Makes Peel and Stick Wallpaper So Popular?
It’s easy to apply, easy to remove, and works on many different surfaces (as long as they’re prepped right). If you’re still on the fence, check out these 10 reasons to love peel and stick wallpaper—you might be surprised at how versatile and budget-friendly it is.