You don’t need a full renovation to update your bathroom. Wallpaper is a fast and affordable way to add colour, pattern, and personality. It’s a smart option if you want to refresh a mobility-friendly bathroom without spending too much.
Today’s bathroom wallpaper ideas are better than ever. Many are moisture-resistant or waterproof, making it easy to create a stylish and accessible bathroom design.
This guide covers a variety of bathroom wallpaper designs. You’ll also find tips on where to use them safely and discover the latest trends for 2026.
Tables of Contents
- Is Wallpaper Suitable for Bathrooms?
- Types of Bathroom Wallpaper
- Trending Bathroom Wallpaper Ideas 2026
- Wallpaper Ideas by Bathroom Size
- Wallpaper for Accessible Bathrooms
- Colour Schemes and Combinations
- Practical Considerations
- Combining Wallpaper with Bathroom Features
- FAQs
Is Wallpaper Suitable for Bathrooms?
Yes, as long as you choose the right type. Moisture-resistant wallpaper works well in bathrooms, but avoid using it in areas that get wet. Make sure your bathroom is well ventilated, too.
Look for wallpaper labelled as waterproof, vinyl, or washable. These types handle steam, splashes, and regular cleaning much better.
Modern Waterproof Options
- Vinyl wallpaper is highly water-resistant, washable, and great for high-humidity spaces.
- Fibreglass and other specialist waterproof bathroom wallpaper types are durable, mould-resistant, and suitable for busy family bathrooms or accessible bathrooms.
- Washable wallpaper is best for cloakrooms and areas away from direct splashes.
- Traditional wallpaper with sealant is fine for well-ventilated cloakrooms, but it’s best to avoid using it near the sink.
Best Areas to Wallpaper
Wallpaper looks great behind a vanity, above half-height tiles, or on walls that don’t get direct shower spray.
It’s also a good option for cloakrooms, as long as there’s enough airflow.
Areas to Avoid
Avoid wallpapering directly inside shower enclosures or next to open wetroom areas where water is likely to run down the wall.4
For areas that get splashed, it’s usually better to use tiles or waterproof wall panels.
Ventilation Considerations
Be sure your bathroom has a good extractor fan and a window you can open. This helps moisture resistant wallpaper last longer by reducing condensation and mould.
Good ventilation also helps keep the air healthier, especially for older adults and people with breathing issues.
Wetroom Compatibility
Wallpaper isn’t always the best choice for wet rooms. But that doesn’t mean you have to avoid using it altogether!
Try combining practical tiling or waterproof wall panels in shower areas with decorative wallpaper on one feature wall.
Types of Bathroom Wallpaper
Some bathroom wallpapers work better in damp areas than others. Here’s a quick look at the main types you can choose from.
Vinyl Wallpaper
Vinyl wallpaper is the most popular waterproof option. It’s easy to wipe clean, resists moisture, and comes in many colours and patterns. It’s ideal for family bathrooms and accessible bathrooms.
Fibreglass Wallpaper
Fibreglass wallpaper is very strong, fire-resistant, and water-resistant. You can often paint over it later if you want to update your bathroom’s look. It lasts a long time and works well in busy shared bathrooms.
Washable Wallpaper
This wallpaper has a protective coating that allows gentle cleaning, so it’s best for lower-humidity bathrooms and powder rooms.
Washable wallpaper should be applied away from splash zones. It’s a good option for a feature wall above tiles or panelling.
Traditional Wallpaper with Sealant
Some people use traditional wallpaper treated with a clear, moisture-resistant sealant. However, traditional wallpaper with sealant should be used only in areas unlikely to experience regular splashes.
Trending Bathroom Wallpaper Ideas 2026
Bathroom wallpaper trends 2026 mix nature-inspired designs with bold graphics and textured finishes. Here are some of our favourite ideas for the coming year.
Botanical and Nature Prints
Leafy botanicals, florals, and nature scenes create a calm, spa-like feel in your bathroom. They also look great with wood and stone finishes and can help make grab rails and other accessible fixtures blend in.
Geometric Patterns
Modern bathroom wallpaper with geometric patterns gives your bathroom a structured, contemporary look, especially in black-and-white or soft neutrals. Smaller patterns work well in small bathrooms, adding interest without making the space feel crowded.
Textured Wallpapers
Vinyl wallpapers that resemble grasscloth or feature embossed designs add depth and a touch of luxury. Choose faux textures in vinyl or washable finishes instead of delicate natural materials.
A feature wall behind a freestanding or walk-in bath can become a real focal point, especially in bigger bathrooms.
In accessible bathrooms, a bold bathroom feature wall can help with orientation, making it easier for people with vision difficulties to find their way.
Vintage and Retro Designs
Vintage floral prints, art deco patterns, and mid-century designs are popular for adding character and a nostalgic touch. They work especially well for powder room wallpaper projects.
Soft, low-contrast patterns and nature-inspired designs can help create a calming space for people with dementia or anxiety.
Wallpaper Ideas by Bathroom Size
Carefully chosen patterns and colours can make your bathroom look better without feeling too busy.
Small Bathroom Solutions
- Light patterns: Soft colours with subtle designs help small bathrooms feel airy whilst adding interest to the walls.
- Vertical stripes: Stripes on the walls can make a small bathroom feel taller by drawing the eye upward.or effects: Metallic accents or designs that echo mirror frames help to bounce light around.
Large Bathroom Statements
- Bold patterns: Large bathrooms can handle big florals, murals, or bold geometric designs.
- Dark, rich colours like navy, charcoal, or emerald can give your bathroom a boutique feel, especially with stylish lighting.
- Multiple wallpaper zones: In large bathrooms, try a bold feature wall and use neutral designs elsewhere to separate bathing and dressing areas.
Wallpaper for Accessible Bathrooms
When planning an accessible bathroom, aim for a design that is safe, clear, and comfortable.
- Wallpaper with clear contrast against sinks and grab rails makes fixtures easier to see and use. High contrast patterns might appear confusing. Instead, choose gentle, nature-inspired patterns.
- Select colours that go well with chrome or powder-coated rails so support features blend into your bathroom’s colour scheme.
Colour Schemes and Combinations
Monochrome Elegance
Black-and-white wallpaper gives your bathroom a timeless look and works well with modern fixtures and glass screens. Textured towels and warm lighting will stop monochrome colour schemes from feeling too stark.
Coastal Blues and Greens
Soft blues, seafoam greens, and sandy neutrals give your bathroom a relaxed, coastal feel that works for both family and accessible bathrooms.
These colours look great with white sinks and chrome grab bars, keeping your bathroom fresh and clean-looking.
Warm Neutrals
Beige, greige, taupe, and warm stone colours make your bathroom feel cosy and spa-like. They’re also easy to match with your current tiles and flooring.
Warm neutrals are a good choice for people with changing vision because they cause less glare than bright white.
Bold and Dramatic
Jewel tones, dark florals, and classic prints are great for making a statement in guest cloakrooms or bigger bathrooms.
In accessible bathrooms, it’s best to use bold designs on just one wall to avoid making the space feel overwhelming.
Practical Considerations
Measuring and Planning
Measure each wall carefully, take out the size of doors and windows, and add a little extra for matching patterns and future repairs.
Think about how the wallpaper will fit around walk-in baths, showers, and built-in storage..
Professional vs DIY Installation
If you’re comfortable with DIY, you can probably handle small bathroom wallpaper projects, especially with peel-and-stick designs.
When putting up wallpaper, don’t use rough pads or strong chemicals, as these can damage moisture-resistant wallpaper.
Longevity and Replacement
In humid bathrooms, high-quality vinyl and fibreglass wallpapers usually last longer than cheaper options.
If you’re planning to redesign an accessible bathroom, it’s worth choosing wallpapers that will look good and last for years. They vary widely depending on material, brand, and installation method.
- Budget-friendly options: Basic washable or vinyl-coated wallpapers are stylish and affordable, making them a good choice for a quick update.
- Mid-range options: Higher-quality vinyl and designer wallpapers cost more but usually have better patterns and last longer.
- Luxury bathroom wallpaper: Premium brands, textured finishes, and custom murals are the most expensive. They work best as feature walls in luxury bathrooms.
- Installation costs: Hiring a professional costs more but usually means the wallpaper will last longer, saving you money over time.
Combining Wallpaper with Bathroom Features
- Choose wallpaper colours that match your floor or wall tiles for a coordinated look.
- Pick designs that highlight the shape of your sink, toilet, and storage units.
- A feature wall behind a walk-in bath can create a spa-like focal point and still keep the space safe to use.
- Make the most of natural light by choosing light-reflective colours and subtle patterns.
FAQs
Q: Can you put normal wallpaper in a bathroom?
A: Traditional wallpapers can be hung in very dry cloakrooms, but it’s best not to apply standard wallpaper in humid or splash-prone bathrooms. If you want to put wallpaper in your bathroom, choose washable or vinyl bathroom wallpaper designs.
Q: How long does bathroom wallpaper last?
A: With good ventilation and correct installation, quality moisture-resistant wallpaper can last for many years, especially when kept away from direct water splashes.
Q: What’s the best wallpaper for a small bathroom?
A: Light-coloured, small-scale patterns in vinyl or washable finishes can help small bathrooms feel bigger. Just remember to choose a moisture-resistant wallpaper that can cope with steam and regular cleaning.
Q: Can you wallpaper around a shower or wetroom?
A: Yes, but only on walls out of direct spray. It is best to finish shower enclosures and wetroom zones with tiles or waterproof panels.
Q: How do you protect bathroom wallpaper from moisture?
A: Make sure the extract fan is working efficiently, open the window after having a shower, keep wallpaper away from splash zones, seal edges carefully, and use appropriate waterproof bathroom wallpaper materials.
Q: Is wallpaper suitable for accessible bathrooms?
A: Yes, providing that it’s durable, easy-to-clean, and combined with a safe bathroom layout, grab bars, and non-slip surfaces.
BMAS can help you design a bathroom that’s safe and stylish.
Contact us today for advice on how to combine bathroom wallpaper with our walk-in baths, showers, and wetroom installations.