Decorating your bathroom with stylish and unique wallpaper can completely transform the look and feel of the space. Whether you want to make a bold statement or create a soothing spa-like atmosphere, the wallpaper you choose can set the tone for your whole bathroom design. From lively floral prints to geometric patterns and nature-inspired textures, wallpaper opens up endless possibilities for infusing color, visual interest and personality.
This article delves into the latest bathroom wallpaper ideas featuring creative patterns, vibrant color palettes, and varied textures. Discover inspiration for choosing a design that complements your style and matches your bathroom decor. We’ll also cover expert tips for properly installing and caring for your wallpaper to maximize its lifespan and beauty. Read on to explore the dramatic impact wallpaper can have and find the perfect look for your bathroom walls!
Eye-Catching Geometric Prints
Geometric wallpaper patterns are a fantastic way to add bold style and visual drama to your bathroom design. From hexagons and triangles to diamantes, chevrons and herringbone prints, geometric motifs pack a graphic punch and create an illusion of depth on your walls. These on-trend designs look especially striking in minimalist, modern or contemporary styled bathrooms.
Some chic geometric print ideas include:
- Black and white triangle wallpaper – Striking and elegant, black triangular shapes over a crisp white background has a contemporary edge. Adding metallic accents and accessories plays up the glam factor.
- Herringbone pattern wallpaper – This vintage-inspired print features an arrangement of zigzags that mimics a herringbone stitch. It gives a tailored, sophisticated look with dimension and texture.
- Geometric tile wallpaper – Tile-effect wallpaper is a budget-friendly way to get the look of high-end ceramic or moroccan tiles without the installation hassle. Opt for graphic shapes like hexagons or diamonds.
- Retro monochrome prints – Checkerboard patterns, starbursts and concentric circles in bold monochromatic hues exude mid-century modern flair. Keep other decor simple to let the wallpaper pop.
- Metallic geometric patterns – For serious sparkle and shine, choose a wallpaper with reflective diamond, octagon or polygon shapes. Metallic accents will make your bathroom feel luxurious.
Nature-Inspired Botanical Prints
For a touch of organic charm, botanical and floral wallpapers infuse your bathroom with natural beauty. Delicate blooms, exotic foliage and sweeping vines are a lovely choice for a serene spa bath or powder room. Opt for a restful color palette like neutrals, pastels or muted jewel tones.
Some fresh botanical wallpaper ideas include:
- Watercolor floral print – Go for an impressionistic, painted look with blurred and brushed florals in a soft color scheme. This style has an ethereal, romantic vibe perfect for vintage bathrooms.
- Tropical leaf print – Lush, oversized tropical leaves like palm, banana and monstera make a bold, bohemian statement. Pair with rattan, wood or wicker accents for a nature-centric look.
- English garden wallpaper – Traditional rose prints, ditsy florals and trailing blooms evoke quaint English cottage gardens. Combine with antique-style fixtures and accessories for a charming shabby-chic aesthetic.
- Succulents and cactus print – For a trendy, desert-inspired look, choose patterns featuring stylized cacti, aloe, and echeveria. Green and blue hues keep it fresh and vibrant.
- Bamboo motif wallpaper – Bamboo stalks and palm fronds printed in their natural brown and green shades exude tranquil, zen energy. It’s ideal for a spa-style retreat.
Sophisticated Damask & Toile Patterns
Another traditional wallpaper style seeing a resurgence is damask, recognized by its elaborate interlocking curving shapes. Often floral or paisley, damasks have ornate sophistication. Elegant toile patterns depicting pastoral scenes in soft neutrals also pair well with clawfoot tubs and antique accents.
Some refined ideas in damask or toile include:
- Black damask wallpaper – Striking and opulent, black damask’s fluid lines contrast beautifully with white molding and bathtubs for neoclassical glamour. Accent with gold mirror frames and sconces.
- Blush pink damask print – For a soft, feminine take on damask, blush pink with hints of gold detailing is ultra romantic and perfect for a vintage shabby chic style bathroom.
- Toile de Jouy wallpaper – This French-style toile features intricate vignettes like florals, village scenes and pastoral landscapes in muted blue, red or green. Timeless and distinctive.
- Metallic damask print – Shimmering damask patterns illuminated with silver, gold or copper metallic sheen feel ornate and luxurious. Pair with marble, mirrors and crystal lighting for maximal opulence.
- Neutral elephant toile – Whimsical and chic, an elephant toile with taupe or gray backgrounds and black illustrative motifs makes a charming, preppy statement.
Textured & Paintable Wallpaper Accents
Want to add tactile interest without bold colors or prints? Textured wallpaper offers gorgeous visual and physical depth, and many styles can be painted over for endless customization options. Consider grasscloth, embossed, flocked or cork textures.
Some ways to use textured wallpaper include:
- Painted grasscloth accent wall – Natural woven grasscloth coated in any color paint you choose makes a super soft, organic backdrop. It’s perfect behind bath vanities or tub areas.
- Flocked velvet wallpaper – For incredible depth and luxury, flocked wallpaper has a plush, velvety texture you’ll want to touch. Use sparingly on one wall as a luxe focal point.
- Metallic textured wallpaper – Bump up the shine factor with textured wallpaper incorporating metallic flecks, glitter or mica for amazing sparkle and light reflection.
- Faux stone accent wall – Make a bold textural statement with wallpaper that mimics stacked stone, brick or natural wood panels for organic depth.
- Removable wood plank wallpaper – For renters, removable wood-look wallpaper provides the look of shiplap or reclaimed barnwood without permanent installation.
Playful & Vibrant Kids’ Bathroom Wallpaper
Kids and youth bathroom spaces are perfect for having fun with energetic colors, prints and shapes. Wallpaper is a great way to create a playful backdrop that stimulates their senses and imaginations. Some family-friendly wallpaper ideas include:
- Blackboard paint wallpaper – With a chalkboard-style surface for drawing, blackboard wallpaper promotes creativity and hands-on play. Use chalk to regularly refresh art.
- Underwater world mural – Entertain dreams of underwater adventures with wall murals depicting colorful coral reefs, sea creatures and bubbles for underwater immersion.
- Comic book character wallpaper – Superheroes, cartoon characters and storybook characters printed as wallpaper let imaginations soar. Opt for easily removable wallpaper.
- Vintage map wallpaper – Illustrated maps spark dreams of travel and adventure. Choose types with fun details like sea monsters, dragons, compasses and old ship routes.
- Space scene wallpaper – For mini astronauts, wallpaper or murals featuring starscapes, planets, rockets and aliens create an out-of-this-world environment. Glow-in-the-dark details up the fun.
Practical Tips for Hanging Wallpaper
Once you’ve selected the perfect wallpaper for your bathroom, proper installation and maintenance will keep it looking fresh and fabulous:
- Carefully measure and cut wallpaper – Measure walls and cut paper precisely to avoid misaligned seams and overlapping edges. Allow extra for matching patterns.
- Use quality adhesive – Choose an adhesive suitable for wallpaper like premixed clear paste. This prevents bubbling or peeling. Apply an even coat to walls and paper back.
- Eliminate air bubbles – Gently smooth surface with a paper smoother, plastic scraper or credit card to push out any trapped air pockets or bubbles.
- Seal seams – Use a small trim roller over seams to flatten edges and ensure a tight seal so moisture doesn’t penetrate.
- Consider professional help – For complex patterns like damask or murals, consider hiring a professional paperhanger for flawless results.
- Follow manufacturer cleaning tips – Many wallpapers can be gently wiped with a clean damp cloth. Check label for any specific cleaning instructions.
With the right style and installation method, wallpaper can completely transform the look and ambiance of your bathroom. From sleek and contemporary prints to romantic florals, organic textures and playful colors, wallpaper opens up endless possibilities. Use the inspiring ideas in this article to get started designing your dream bathroom walls!
Frequently Asked Questions About Bathroom Wallpaper Ideas
What type of wallpaper is best for bathrooms?
Vinyl coated and pre-pasted wallpapers are best for bathrooms as they are waterproof and easier to install. Avoid regular paper wallpaper which can mildew. Materials like grasscloth, cork, textiles and wood veneer should be sealed to withstand humidity.
What surfaces can I install wallpaper on in my bathroom?
Wallpaper can be applied to drywall, plaster, painted walls and some tiles or paneling if the surface is properly prepared and primed. Concrete, heavily textured or oil-based paints are not suitable. Ensure all surfaces are smooth, dry and clean before papering.
Is it ok to have wallpaper behind a tub or shower?
Yes, as long as you opt for high-quality vinyl that has a waterproof coating and the wall surface is properly sealed. Also caulk all tile edges and plumbing fixtures to prevent moisture seeping behind. Avoid porous paper wallpapers which can mold.
How do I cut wallpaper around bathroom fixtures and outlets?
Measure and mark the location of fixtures, outlets and switches on your wallpaper before hanging. Then carefully cut out holes for each element using a sharp utility knife. Cut holes slightly smaller than the fixtures to keep wallpaper edges sealed tight.
Should I remove existing wallpaper before installing new paper?
Yes, remove old wallpaper down to the bare wall for the best adhesion of new paper. Scrape off as much old adhesive as possible. Size and seal the surface so new paper bonds tightly. Covering old paper can cause bubbling.
How long does wallpaper typically last in a bathroom?
With proper installation and care, you can expect vinyl wallpaper to last 3-5 years in a bathroom before needing replacement. Regular wallpaper may need replacing more often. Avoid moisture damage and reseal caulking to maximize lifespan.
What’s the best wallpaper for a rental bathroom?
Removable, peel-and-stick wallpaper is ideal for renters. It applies easily without glue or water, removes cleanly, and allows installing bold prints without permanent commitment. Just ensure the adhesive is designed not to damage painted walls.
I hope this overview on creative bathroom wallpaper ideas featuring distinctive prints, textures, and colors gives you inspiration and insights for your next wallpaper project! Let me know if you have any other questions.