Can You Use Wallpaper in a Bathroom?

The bathroom is often treated as the one room where we must behave ourselves, but truly, why should it be the sensible space? A bathroom can be playful, expressive and full of character. Colour, texture and pattern thrive in small, steamy corners of the home, and with a little practical thinking, there is very little stopping you from creating a room that feels joyful every single day.

Moisture is the only real consideration. As long as you avoid direct splash zones, you can absolutely bring in wallpaper. Where water might hit, tiles make a perfect partner. Panelling is another clever option for the lower half of the wall, especially if you have a small boy in the house who has occasionally aimed in the wrong direction. Better the panelling than the wallpaper.

Don't Miss: Customer below has teamed textured tiles with my Hemlock wallpaper in green colourway called Bold Brassica.

How do you protect wallpaper in a bathroom?

A very handy trick is to use a clear decorator’s varnish. Brushed or rolled on, it creates a durable, invisible layer that helps guard against splashes, fingerprints, scuffs and the general chaos of daily life. It comes in dead flat, gloss or satin. Dead flat gives a beautifully matt, natural finish, while a coat of satin followed by dead flat offers extra resilience in high traffic areas. Or alternatively, you can fit a clear perspex sheet over the wallpaper as a protective shield. 

Why are small rooms perfect for bold choices?

I always say that a small room is a brave room. Go bold or go home. If you do not fully commit to the look you truly want, you may always feel a little disappointed that you did not follow your instincts. Playing it safe often leads to a room that feels flat and forgettable.

What is the worst that can happen? You dislike the wallpaper and remove it. In my experience, it is far harder to muster the motivation to fix a room that feels underwhelming once it is finished. Far better to choose something that makes your heart beat faster from the start. 

I also recommend (like the customer below) styling a small fluffy dog with your bathroom sanitary ware! ;)

What finishing touches make the biggest difference?

Once the walls are dressed, do not forget the paintwork and accessories. Hand towels, mirrors, artwork and even the soap dish can elevate the whole space. Bathrooms are brilliant for storytelling through small details, and the world is your oyster. 

Don't Miss: Just like this customer below, pair my Bloomsbury Moth wallpaper with gold finishes, veined marble & a dark ceiling!