When you’re ready to update your bedroom walls, stick on wallpaper offers a fast, less permanent solution than traditional paste-up. Before you buy, consider the material and its durability, especially in a high-traffic area like a bedroom.
Choosing the right material for your bedroom wallpaper
Most stick on wallpaper is made from vinyl or a vinyl-coated paper. Look for options specifically labeled as ‘removable’ or ‘peel and stick’ as these are designed to come off cleanly. Some wallpapers have a thicker gauge, often referred to as 3D or textured wallpaper, which can hide minor wall imperfections better than thinner options. These might be made with PVC or a similar plastic composite. For a more natural look, consider grasscloth peel and stick wallpaper, though these can be more delicate and sometimes harder to align perfectly. Understand the backing material – some use a repositionable adhesive, others a more permanent, though still removable, type.
Measure your walls accurately
Measure the height and width of each wall you plan to cover. Note the location and size of windows, doors, and any built-in features like closets or shelving. Always add an extra 10-15% to your total square footage for pattern matching and potential mistakes. Most rolls are 20.5 inches wide and 16 feet long, covering about 27.3 square feet. If your room is 10 feet high and 20 feet wide, that’s 200 sq ft of wall space. You’d need about 7.3 rolls (200 / 27.3), so round up to 8 rolls to be safe.
Understand different finishes and patterns
Bedroom wallpaper comes in a vast array of finishes and patterns. Matte finishes absorb light and can make a room feel cozier, ideal for a bedroom. Satin or semi-gloss finishes reflect more light, which can make a smaller room feel larger, but they may also highlight wall imperfections. Consider the scale of the pattern – a large, bold pattern might overwhelm a small bedroom, while a subtle, small-scale pattern can add texture without being distracting. For a truly impactful effect, explore easy peel and stick wallpaper options that fit your style.
Installation: preparing your walls
Proper wall preparation is critical. Start by cleaning your walls thoroughly. Remove any dust, grease, or old wallpaper residue. Use a mild detergent and water solution, then rinse and let the walls dry completely. Fill any holes or cracks with spackling compound, sand them smooth once dry, and wipe away the dust. If your walls are glossy, a light sanding can help the wallpaper adhere better. Avoid applying wallpaper over textured walls or surfaces that are peeling or damaged. Ensure your walls are smooth and clean for the best adhesion.
Applying the stick on wallpaper
Start in a corner or near a prominent feature like a window. Most peel and stick wallpapers are applied from top to bottom. Peel back a few inches of the backing paper at the top. Align the edge of the wallpaper with the ceiling or corner and press down gently. Use a smoothing tool (often a squeegee or a plastic putty knife) to press the wallpaper onto the wall, working from the center outwards to push out air bubbles. As you work down, slowly peel away the backing paper. Overlap subsequent strips by about 1/8 inch, aligning the pattern carefully. If you make a mistake, carefully peel back the strip and reposition it. Take your time; rushing leads to bubbles and misalignments.
Dealing with corners and outlets
For inside corners, cut the wallpaper strip so it overlaps by about 1/2 inch onto the adjacent wall. Then, make a relief cut from the corner edge to the edge of the wallpaper, allowing it to lie flat. For outside corners, wrap the paper around the corner by about 1/2 inch and make a vertical relief cut from the top to the corner edge. Trim excess where needed. Around outlets and switches, turn off the power at the breaker first. Apply the wallpaper over the outlet, then carefully cut out the opening with a utility knife. You can often find specialized outlet covers that complement your wallpaper.
Common mistakes to avoid
One common mistake is not cleaning the walls properly. Dirt and grease will prevent the adhesive from sticking. Another is rushing the application, which leads to trapped air bubbles and misaligned patterns. Don’t try to force the wallpaper to lie flat if there are significant bumps or imperfections on the wall; these need to be addressed beforehand. Also, be aware that some removable wallpapers might pull off paint if the paint is old, chalky, or not properly adhered to the drywall. Always test a small, inconspicuous area first if you have concerns about paint removal. Finally, ensure you order enough wallpaper from the same dye lot to avoid color variations between rolls.
Peel and stick wallpaper for renters
Stick on wallpaper is an excellent choice for renters because it’s generally removable without damaging the underlying paint. It allows you to personalize your space significantly without making permanent changes. When it’s time to move, you can usually peel it off cleanly, leaving the walls as you found them. This makes it a budget-friendly and renter-friendly way to enhance your home.
Maintenance and longevity
Most vinyl-based stick on wallpapers are washable. You can wipe them down gently with a damp cloth and mild soap if they get dirty. Avoid abrasive cleaners or excessive moisture, which can damage the print or the adhesive. The lifespan of stick on wallpaper can vary, but with proper care, it can last for several years. For bedrooms, where walls are less likely to be splashed or heavily handled, it can maintain its appearance for a long time.
Pattern matching and dye lots
Pattern matching is crucial for a seamless look. Most wallpapers have a ‘pattern repeat’ – the distance before the pattern starts over. Note this measurement when buying and factor it into your calculations. Always buy wallpaper from the same dye lot. Dye lots are batches of wallpaper printed at the same time, and slight variations in color can occur between different batches. Mixing dye lots will result in noticeable color differences on your walls. Check the roll labels for the dye lot number before starting.
When to call a professional
While most peel and stick wallpapers are designed for DIY installation, complex patterns, large rooms, or high ceilings might benefit from professional help. If you’re not comfortable with measuring, cutting, or applying wallpaper, hiring a professional ensures a perfect finish and can save you time and frustration. They have the experience and tools to handle tricky areas and ensure the wallpaper looks its best. For intricate designs or difficult wall surfaces, professional installation is a worthwhile investment.
Consider exploring grasscloth peel and stick wallpaper if you desire a natural texture, but be prepared for a slightly more involved installation process. Remember, the goal is a beautiful, durable finish that enhances your bedroom’s atmosphere. For more on choosing the right type, check out this comprehensive guide to peel and stick wallpaper.