Can You Put Wallpaper in a Bathroom? And Other Risky Spots for Wallpaper in Your Home?
Wallpaper can transform a room, adding color, texture, and personality. However, its placement needs careful consideration to avoid potential damage from moisture and other environmental factors. This guide explores where not to place wallpaper in your home and offers stylish alternatives.
Where Not to Place Wallpaper
Understanding where wallpaper can and cannot go is crucial for maintaining the integrity of your walls and the overall health of your home.
Bathrooms with Showers
The Risk:
Wallpaper in bathrooms with showers is highly susceptible to peeling and mold due to high humidity levels.
Alternatives:
Opt for stencils, painted murals, or well-sealed canvas art that can withstand moisture.
Behind Appliances and Plumbing
The Risk:
Areas behind washers, dishwashers, and plumbing fixtures are prone to moisture accumulation and leaks.
Alternatives:
Use murals or stencils, or consider applying wallpaper only above the plumbing fixtures on interior walls.
Exterior Walls and Around Windows
The Risk:
Exterior walls and areas around windows can experience temperature changes that lead to condensation, risking wallpaper integrity.
Alternatives:
Avoid wallpapering these areas altogether to prevent peeling and mold growth.
Ceilings Touching Exterior Walls or Containing Plumbing
The Risk:
Such ceilings are vulnerable to moisture from condensation or leaks, making them unsuitable for wallpaper.
Alternatives:
Keep ceilings clear of any coverings or use moisture-resistant paint.
Rooms with High or Fluctuating Humidity
The Risk:
Rooms like kitchens or laundry areas with varying humidity levels can degrade wallpaper adhesive and material.
Alternatives:
Consider using large scale artwork, tapestries, or high-quality paint designed for humid environments.
Best Practices and Alternatives for Using Wallpaper
While there are many places where wallpaper might pose a risk, there are also safe and creative ways to incorporate it into your home decor.
Safe Wallpaper Usage
Interior Walls without Plumbing
Utilize wallpaper on interior walls far from any moisture sources to minimize risk and maximize durability.
Creative Alternatives
Inside Picture Frame Molding
Encase wallpaper within picture frame molding to create a dramatic and moisture-protected design feature.
Stencils and Murals
These artistic alternatives provide the flexibility to add personalized designs without the long-term commitment or moisture risks of wallpaper.
Wallpaper on Cabinets
Adding wallpaper to cabinet insets or sides can introduce a decorative element in low-moisture areas, enhancing the room’s aesthetic without the associated risks.
Conclusion
Choosing the right places to install wallpaper or selecting alternatives can make all the difference in maintaining a healthy, stylish home. By understanding the risks and options available, you can make informed decisions that reflect both your style and practicality.
This blog post provides a comprehensive guide on where to avoid using wallpaper and suggests practical and decorative alternatives to ensure your home remains both stylish and functional. Let me know if there’s anything else you’d like to add or modify!
