If you love the look of wallpaper but worry about whether it can really survive in a bathroom, you’re not alone.
This is one of the most common questions I’m asked as a surface pattern designer – and the good news is:
Yes, you can use wallpaper in a bathroom… you just need to choose the right type and place it thoughtfully.
Here’s everything you need to know to make wallpaper work beautifully in a bathroom, without peeling, bubbling, or disappointment.
1. Choose the right type of wallpaper
Not all wallpapers behave the same in humidity. The safest options for bathrooms are:
✔ Vinyl-coated wallpaper
This has a protective top layer that makes it more moisture-resistant. It isn’t waterproof, but it handles steam far better than traditional paper.
✔ Non-woven / paste-the-wall wallpaper
This is what many premium brands use today (including mine).
Non-woven papers are breathable, durable, and much more stable in humid spaces – meaning they won’t stretch or warp.
✔ Avoid: pure pulp / untreated paper wallpapers
They’re beautiful, but they don’t hold up well in steamy rooms.
Matilda Trailing Leaves wallpaper
Matilda Trailing Leaves wallpaper
2. Mind the placement
Even moisture-resistant wallpaper shouldn’t go directly in a splash zone.
Avoid placing wallpaper:
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inside a shower enclosure
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directly above a bath where water will hit it
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behind a sink with no splashback
These areas need tiles or a wipeable surface.
But you can wallpaper:
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the upper half of the walls
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a feature wall
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a cloakroom or WC (low steam, ideal!)
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above panelling
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the entire room – as long as it’s well-ventilated and splash zones are protected
Cloakrooms, especially, are one of the best places for wallpaper. They’re small, often windowless, and wallpaper brings instant personality.
3. Good ventilation is essential
If you take long, hot showers and the room stays steamy for ages, even the best wallpaper will struggle.
A bathroom with:
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an extractor fan
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a window
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or a dehumidifier
…will handle wallpaper beautifully.
If in doubt, ventilate well after bathing or showering. I live in an old Georgian home, (condensation everywhere!!) so keep my bathroom window open almost permanently because I like the hottest showers. So far the wallpaper is still doing well!
4. Seal the edges (optional but recommended)
A decorator can apply a clear matt varnish to the wallpaper’s edges or seams to help prevent moisture getting behind the paper.
This is especially helpful around:
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windowsills
-above splashbacks -
corners
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ceiling edges
It’s invisible once dry and adds extra peace of mind.
5. Consider wallpaper as an opportunity for personality
Bathrooms are actually one of the most effective places to use wallpaper because:
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They’re small → high impact for relatively low cost
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They often need warmth or softness
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They’re usually practical rather than beautiful spaces
Wallpaper makes them feel considered, polished, and welcoming – not just functional.
Many designers choose bold, joyful patterns for bathrooms because the room can handle more personality than a bedroom or living room.
Matilda Woodland Dreams, hand-drawn wallpaper in blush pink
6. Can Willow & Woods wallpaper be used in bathrooms?
Yes – my wallpapers are printed on high-quality non-woven paper, which performs beautifully in well-ventilated bathrooms and cloakrooms.
As long as the wallpaper isn’t placed directly in a splash zone, it will hold up extremely well.
If you’re unsure whether your bathroom is suitable, you’re always welcome to ask – I’m happy to look at your space and advise.
7. Not sure which wallpaper to choose?
Bathrooms can be tricky because scale, colour, and pattern all behave differently in small spaces.
If you’d like help, I’ve created a free guide:
Finding the Perfect Wallpaper: A Designer’s Secrets to Getting It Right Every Time
It walks you through how to choose confidently, mix patterns, and narrow your options.
Download your free Perfect Wallpaper Guide here.
Final answer: Yes – wallpaper absolutely works in bathrooms
As long as you choose the right type, avoid splash zones, and ensure good ventilation, wallpaper can last for years and completely transform your bathroom.
If you’re dreaming of adding personality, colour, or warmth to your bathroom, wallpaper is one of the most beautiful ways to do it.
If you’re looking for unique wallpapers to add warmth and personality to your living room, browse my hand-drawn collection here. I’m always happy to help you choose the perfect sample to start your design journey.
If you are feeling overwhelmed by your pattern choices, and pulling together a scheme that brings you joy, check out my Pattern Consultations – get my help and suggestions (and no, they won’t include my own designs unless they particularly match what you are looking for!)