For a long time, tiles and water-repellent paints were the only options for kitchen and bathroom walls. But today, there is a stylish, easy, and flexible alternative: self-adhesive wallpapers for the kitchen and bathroom!
These special wallpapers are not only waterproof but also heat-resistant, easy to clean, and simple to apply. You can quickly and effortlessly give your kitchen or bathroom a new look—without having to lay tiles or paint walls in a time-consuming way.
But which self-adhesive wallpapers are truly suitable for use in damp rooms? How can you apply them correctly to ensure they last long? And what should you pay attention to when choosing? In this post, you’ll learn everything you need to know to style your kitchen or bathroom with modern, waterproof self-adhesive wallpapers.
Which Self-Adhesive Wallpapers are Suitable for Kitchen & Bathroom?
Not every wallpaper withstands the special requirements of damp rooms. While classic paper or textile wallpapers are quickly damaged by moisture, there are specific materials that are perfect for bathrooms and kitchens.
- Vinyl Wallpapers – The All-Rounders for Damp Rooms
Water-resistant: Perfect for bathroom walls and kitchen backsplashes.
Easy to clean: A damp cloth is enough to remove splashes and dirt.
Varied designs: From minimalist patterns to wood and marble looks.
Ideal for: Bathroom walls, kitchen backsplashes, areas behind the sink. - PVC Wallpapers – Extra Durable & Long-Lasting
Extremely resistant to moisture and steam.
Heat-resistant, so they are suitable for areas near stoves or sinks.
Very durable, ideal for high-traffic spaces.
Ideal for: Wall areas close to the stove or shower. - Tile-Look Wallpapers – The Perfect Tile Replacement
Realistic tile patterns that look like real tiles.
Ideal for accent walls or splash zones in the kitchen.
Easily removable without residue, perfect for rental apartments.
Ideal for: Kitchen backsplashes, bathroom accents, splash areas.
Step-by-Step Guide for Applying in Damp Rooms
To ensure that self-adhesive wallpapers hold up well in the kitchen and bathroom, you should be particularly careful when applying them. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide that will guarantee the success of your project.
Prepare the Surface
The wall or surface must be clean, dry, and grease-free.
Remove old paint remnants or loose wallpaper pieces.
If the wall is highly absorbent (e.g., plaster), apply a primer beforehand.
Tip: If you want to apply wallpaper on tiles, make sure it sticks smoothly and that the grout lines don’t show too much.
Cut the Wallpaper
Cut the required strips with some excess to allow adjustments.
If you have patterned wallpaper, ensure the transitions are aligned.
Tip: Tile-look wallpapers look particularly realistic when the grout lines are precisely aligned.
Apply the Wallpaper
Slowly peel off the protective film, piece by piece.
Smooth the wallpaper from top to bottom using a squeegee or soft cloth.
Immediately smooth out air bubbles for a perfect result.
Tip: If bubbles form, you can pierce them with a small needle and gently press the air out.
Seal the Edges (Optional)
If the wallpaper will come into heavy contact with water, seal the edges with clear silicone or transparent lacquer.
Especially on edges, corners, and behind the sink, this is a good protective measure.
Tip: In particularly damp areas, like inside the shower, waterproof PVC or vinyl films are better suited than wallpapers.
Care and Cleaning – How to Keep Your Wallpaper Looking Beautiful for Longer
Self-adhesive wallpapers for the kitchen and bathroom are easy to care for, but a few tips will help extend their lifespan.
- Regular Cleaning:
Splashes of grease or water can be removed with a damp microfiber cloth.
Use mild cleaning agents to avoid damaging the wallpaper. - Avoid Moisture:
Make sure the wallpaper is not directly splashed with water (e.g., in the shower).
Ventilate regularly to prevent mold growth. - Watch for Heat:
Avoid direct contact with hot surfaces, especially near stovetops.
If necessary, you can use heat-resistant protective films as an additional barrier.
At Alpha Wallcoverings, you can also purchase self-adhesive wallpapers!