Can wallpaper be used in Australian bathrooms?

A bathroom needs to be practical, but you also want it to look great. Wallpaper is a fantastic way of creating a point of difference in your bathroom, elevating it to something a little less ordinary. Unfortunately, many people don’t even ask, "Can wallpaper be used in the bathroom?" which is a real shame because the answer is, of course, “yes” by doing your research and following a few fundamentals.

While we are big fans of bathroom wallpaper, your bathroom conditions and the application method must be carefully considered before any attempt is made. For instance, you may need to carry out prep work to ensure your bathroom is suitable for wallpaper. When renovating your bathroom, you may only be able to wallpaper a feature or accent wall. Either way, several factors should be considered to determine if it's worth doing.

Humidity

One of the most significant considerations is humidity. Materials like wood and paper don't do well if they get too wet, so moisture in the air can cause problems with wallpaper. Baths and showers can cause a lot of humidity and sometimes make wallpapering difficult. In a small bathroom or powder room that doesn't have a bath or shower, this isn't so much of a problem. A bathroom with a tub and shower must be well-ventilated to make wallpapering a genuine, long-term option. If you decide to decorate your bathroom with wallpaper, you will also need to ensure you properly prepare the wall and treat the wallpaper. After application, managing the moisture as best you can is essential. A powerful extractor fan and infrared ceiling heater are both additions you could make to help with this. You can also wire the fan to turn on with the light, so it's always running when the bathroom is in use.

Splashing

Regardless of your bathroom design, splashes are almost impossible to avoid. Your shower, bath, and sink will likely cause splashes in the surrounding area, and too much of this can affect your wallpaper. The best way to avoid this is with a buffer around the shower/bath, covering any areas subject to splashes. Interior paint and tiles are popular choices for this. Similarly, with a sink, you should have a backsplash that covers enough area to prevent the wallpaper from getting wet. The aerator in your faucet will affect the droplets' size, so ensure it's working correctly to keep them to a minimum.

Heat

Heat, especially alongside moisture, can also damage the wallpaper. A bathroom will generally be warm just after someone has showered, but the heat can vary greatly. The best thing to do to help with this is to ensure there is a way for the heat to escape. A skylight or window is ideal for this and lets in some natural light. An extractor fan can also help cool your bathroom down after use.

Related article: How long does a bathroom renovation take in Australia?

The next question is, "How do I install wallpaper in the bathroom?" The process isn't too different from that of other rooms, but with a bathroom, you need to remember a few important things.

1. Prepare your wall

Wallpaper should only be applied to smooth, flat surfaces that are spotlessly clean. Avoid applying it to textured or porous walls, unpainted surfaces, or those with high-gloss paint, as these can prevent proper adhesion and a flawless finish.

2. Dampen and book wallpaper

Lightly cover the back of the wallpaper using a spray bottle. Make sure it's fully covered right to the edges. Booking the wallpaper will ensure the glue doesn't dry out. Booking means folding the paper inwards on itself for around 5 minutes.

3. Apply the wallpaper

Apply the panels to the wall going from top to bottom. Use a laser line to ensure it's straight. Help it stick and remove any air bubbles with smoother wallpaper.

4. Coat the wallpaper

Use decorator varnish to protect the wallpaper. You can use a brush or a roller for this. It will have a milky-white colour when applying varnish, but this will clear as it dries.

6. Protect the edges and seams

Once it's dried, you can fill between the baseboards and wallpaper with silicone caulk. Do a final check around the edges - if you notice any lifting or curling seams, you can fix them with seam sealant

There are countless styles when thinking about the kind of wallpaper you want. There are, however, only two suitable types of bathrooms.

Paper

Paper wallpaper is a traditional wall covering. This type can be quite susceptible to water damage, so it must be coated after application otherwise it will quickly degrade. It's important to ensure all edges are sealed as damage can occur even with coating if water gets behind the paper.

Vinyl

Peel-and-stick wallpaper is designed to make things a bit easier but still offers plenty of flexibility. It's also easier to remove when you decide to change it again. The main advantage is that vinyl is far better suited to handle moisture than paper, so it's generally the better choice for a bathroom.

While it's great to know how to wallpaper your bathroom and the types, nothing beats having some designs and ideas to get inspired by.

In this bathroom, the detailed floral wallpaper provides a stunning focal point while cleverly meeting the demands of bathroom use. The high-quality print is designed to resist moisture and steam, ensuring the pattern does not peel or fade over time while showcasing a vivid floral design. The quality of the paper ensures that the colours won't fade, and the surface can be easily wiped clean and cared for.

Step into a space that exemplifies the boldness of the Art Deco movement with this striking wallpaper featuring a sophisticated leopard and monstera leaf design. Its breathable material prevents mould and mildew, ideal for moisture-rich environments. The non-woven fabric is moisture-resistant, facilitating a straightforward paste-the-wall application with no expansion or contraction. The wallpaper is easy to clean with a damp cloth and is durable enough to resist wear and tear.

Infuse your bathroom with energy and brightness using bold patterns that transform the space. The 'Overgrown' wallpaper is a testament to this idea, with its lush and layered foliage pattern creating an immersive tropical atmosphere. The dark background is intentional, allowing the vivid colours to stand out and infuse the room with life, while the bold, overlapping leaves add a visual depth that can open up the space. This design choice makes a statement while injecting a sense of joy and vibrancy, perfect for starting the day on a bright note.

Related article: 9 stylish wallpaper designs for your living room

Fierce, elegant, and playful, the 'Pouncing Tigers' wallpaper in the Blossom colourway is a daring choice for those looking to infuse their space with a sense of the wild. The dynamic pattern features tigers in mid-pounce, set against a delicate Blossom backdrop that contrasts the beasts' ferocity and the hue's softness.

This sophisticated monochrome stripe wallpaper brings a sense of bold elegance to a bathroom. The alternating black and white stripes create a striking visual impact, offering an illusion of expanded depth and heightened ceilings. Ideally suited for a bathroom setting, the wallpaper's premium paper construction and 180gsm weight ensure a lasting finish. Its free match pattern repeat allows for a seamless application, making it a stylish yet practical choice for contemporary and traditional interiors.

When you've invested time and effort into wallpapering your bathroom, it's essential to know how to care for it properly, especially since the environment is prone to moisture and humidity. Here are some critical tips for maintaining your wallpaper and ensuring it stays pristine for years.

Pay special attention to the bathroom sink area

The area around the bathroom sink is particularly vulnerable to splashes and spills. To protect your wallpaper, consider using a water-resistant wallpaper in this zone. This type of wallpaper is designed to withstand the occasional splash, making it ideal for use near the sink.

Consider using extra strong wallpaper adhesive

It's crucial to use an extra-strong wallpaper adhesive on all the walls in your bathroom, especially in a guest bathroom that might see frequent use. This ensures that the wallpaper adheres firmly to the walls, even in a high-moisture environment. A robust adhesive also prevents peeling or bubbling, which can be common issues in wallpapered bathrooms.

Think about caring for the whole bathroom

To safeguard the entire room, it's advisable to apply decorator varnish over your wallpaper. This product adds an extra layer of protection against moisture and humidity. Choose a clear matt varnish for a dead flat finish that won't alter the appearance of your wallpaper but will provide a protective shield. This varnish helps maintain the integrity of the wallpaper throughout the room.

Wipe your wallpaper down regularly

Regular maintenance is key to keeping your wallpaper in top condition. Gently wipe the walls with a soft, damp cloth to remove any dust or stains. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, which can damage the wallpaper's surface.

Keep your bathroom ventilated

Good ventilation is crucial in a wallpapered bathroom. Ensure your bathroom is well-ventilated to prevent the build-up of excess moisture, which can damage the wallpaper over time. This can be achieved through an exhaust fan or by regularly opening windows to allow air circulation.

When planning your bathroom makeover or full renovation, wallpaper should definitely be considered a wall-covering alternative. As long as you plan and prepare properly, you can add a stylish and unique feature that will make your bathroom stand out. With so many great colours, patterns, and designs to choose from, it's an opportunity that shouldn’t be missed.

This article was updated 29th November 2024

Browse a range of striking wallpaper designs on ArchiPro today