Selecting pastel bedroom wallpaper means choosing a mood. Soft blues, gentle pinks, muted lavenders, and subtle greens can create an atmosphere of calm and serenity. Unlike bold patterns that demand attention, pastels offer a soothing backdrop, making your bedroom a true sanctuary.
Choosing the right pastel shade
Think about the existing elements in your room. A pale blue can complement natural wood tones, while a soft pink might pair beautifully with white or cream furniture. Consider the natural light your room receives. In a room with abundant sunlight, a slightly deeper pastel can still feel airy. In a darker room, opt for lighter, brighter pastels to maximize the sense of space and light.
Consider the undertones
Pastels aren’t just one-dimensional. A ‘blush’ pink might have warm, peachy undertones, while another might lean cooler with hints of lavender. Similarly, mint green can range from a yellow-toned chartreuse to a blue-toned teal. Always try to get a sample if possible, and view it in your room at different times of day to see how the light affects its appearance.
Pastel patterns vs. solids
While solid pastel walls offer a minimalist, serene look, patterns can add depth and personality. Delicate floral prints in pastel tones, subtle geometric designs, or even abstract washes of color can add character to your room. For a truly dreamy feel, consider floral patterns. You can explore beautiful options in our guide to flowers on wallpaper.
Types of pastel wallpaper for your bedroom
The material of your wallpaper significantly impacts its look, feel, and durability. For bedrooms, especially, you want something that’s easy to maintain and creates the right ambiance.
Peel and stick wallpaper
This is often the preferred choice for DIYers and renters. Peel and stick wallpaper is essentially vinyl-based with an adhesive backing. You simply peel off the backing and apply it directly to your wall. It’s forgiving, allowing you to reposition it during application if you make a mistake. Plus, it’s generally removable without damaging the paint underneath, making it ideal for temporary decor or if you like to change your style often. For more on this convenient option, check out our easy peel and stick wallpaper guide and discover the best high-quality peel and stick wallpaper.
Traditional paste-applied wallpaper
This involves applying wallpaper paste to the back of the paper or directly to the wall before hanging. It offers a very durable and long-lasting finish, often with a slightly more luxurious feel, especially with textured papers. However, it’s a more involved process and can be trickier to remove. If you’re looking for a permanent, high-end look, this might be your choice, but for most bedrooms, peel and stick offers superior convenience.
Textured pastel wallpaper
Beyond the color, texture adds another dimension. Embossed patterns, linen-look finishes, or even subtle fabric-backed wallpapers can make your pastel walls feel richer and more sophisticated. These often come in paste-applied varieties but are increasingly available in peel and stick formats.
Installation tips for your pastel bedroom wallpaper
Proper installation is key to achieving a professional look and ensuring your wallpaper lasts. Whether you choose peel and stick or traditional paste-applied, follow these guidelines.
Preparation is crucial
Start by ensuring your walls are clean, dry, and smooth. Wash off any dirt, grease, or old adhesive. Fill any holes or cracks with spackle and sand them smooth once dry. If your walls are glossy, a light sanding can help the adhesive (whether it’s the wallpaper’s own or paste) adhere better. For peel and stick, especially, smooth walls are essential to avoid bubbles and ensure good adhesion.
Measure and cut
Measure the height of your wall and add a few extra inches (about 4-6 inches total) for trimming at the top and bottom. This allows for adjustments and ensures you cover the entire surface, including any slight imperfections in the ceiling or baseboard line. When cutting, lay the wallpaper flat and use a sharp utility knife or a rotary cutter for clean, straight lines. Ensure you align any repeating patterns correctly before cutting subsequent panels.
Application techniques
For Peel and Stick: Start by peeling off only a few inches of the backing at the top. Align the edge of the wallpaper with your starting point (usually a corner or a straight edge like a window frame) and smooth it onto the wall. Gradually peel the backing down, using a smoothing tool (like a plastic smoother or a clean credit card) to press the wallpaper onto the wall, working out any air bubbles as you go. Overlap panels slightly if recommended by the manufacturer (usually by about 1/16 inch) to ensure seamless coverage.
For Paste-Applied: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for paste application. Generally, you’ll apply paste evenly to the back of the paper or the wall. Allow the paper to ‘book’ (sit for a few minutes) if instructed, as this allows the paste to penetrate and the paper to expand slightly, preventing wrinkles during application. Use a wallpaper brush or smoother to apply the paper, working from the center outwards to push out excess paste and air bubbles.
Trimming and finishing
Once the wallpaper is applied, use a sharp utility knife to carefully trim the excess at the ceiling and baseboard. A plastic straight edge can help guide your knife for a perfectly straight cut. For outlets and switches, turn off the power, remove the cover plates, and carefully cut an ‘X’ in the wallpaper over the opening. Then, trim around the opening to fit snugly. Smooth down all edges to ensure they are well adhered.
Common mistakes to avoid with pastel bedroom wallpaper
Even with a forgiving material like peel and stick, errors can happen. Being aware of potential pitfalls can save you time and frustration.
1. Inadequate wall preparation
This is the most common mistake. Applying wallpaper over uncleaned or textured walls will lead to poor adhesion, bubbles, and a shortened lifespan for your wallpaper. Always clean and, if necessary, lightly sand walls.
2. Not ordering enough wallpaper
It’s always better to order slightly more wallpaper than you think you’ll need. Dye lots can vary between batches, meaning colors might not match perfectly if you run short and have to order another roll later. Account for pattern matching and potential mistakes.
3. Rushing the installation
Take your time, especially with the first panel. Getting the first piece straight and properly aligned is crucial, as subsequent panels will be hung relative to it. Work slowly and methodically.
4. Using a dull blade for trimming
A dull utility knife blade will tear the wallpaper rather than cut it cleanly, leaving a ragged edge that’s hard to fix. Always use a fresh, sharp blade for trimming.
5. Ignoring manufacturer instructions
Each wallpaper product can have specific requirements for paste, application, or even cleaning. Always read and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for the best results.
Styling your pastel bedroom
Once your pastel wallpaper is up, it’s time to complete the look. Pastels pair wonderfully with neutrals like white, cream, beige, and light gray. You can also introduce metallic accents in gold, rose gold, or brushed nickel for a touch of glamour. For a bolder contrast, consider black or dark wood furniture. If you love unique designer patterns, you might find inspiration from brands like Rifle Paper Co. in our guide to Rifle Paper Co. wallpaper.
Consider introducing different textures through bedding, rugs, and curtains to add depth to your pastel scheme. Think about plush velvets, soft linens, or chunky knits. The goal is to create a layered, inviting space that reflects your personal style.
