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Spruce / Dera Burreson
While installing wallpaper may require a significant amount of time, money, and effort, it’s also a worthwhile investment for those looking to bring visual interest to their space. And whether you’re into a colorful, eye-catching look or prefer a more subdued, minimalist style, you’ll find an abundance of quality wallpaper options on the market that will align with your design preferences and needs.
When shopping for wallpaper, New York-based interior designer Mikel Welch says that one of the most important factors is finding a pattern and texture that you truly enjoy. Putting up wallpaper is a labor of love, so you should make sure it looks good in different lighting and angles. “Unlike paint, this isn’t a quick redo type of project,” he adds. “Test a few swatches on the wall and look at the wallpaper during the day and night before you commit.”
After hours of research, we put 30 top-rated wallpapers to the test in The Lab in Des Moines, Iowa, evaluating them on their ease of application, design, durability, and value. Named our best overall pick, the Priano Wallpaper has a simple application process, is easy to clean, and boasts a charming design with a high-quality texture.
Read on for the best wallpapers, backed by our thorough testing.
Best Overall
Serena and Lily Priano Wallpaper
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Serena and Lily
Easy to apply
Thick, sturdy texture
Cleans well with no stains or fading
May need a liner for textured walls
Putting up wallpaper can be a big undertaking, so you’ll want to make sure the option you choose hits the mark on all fronts. Of all the options we tested, the Priano Wallpaper impressed us the most with its gorgeous pattern and color options, foolproof application process, easy-to-clean material, and reasonable price point.
We loved the romantic and artistic look of this wallpaper’s design, which features free-flowing vines expressed with a beautiful watercolor that adds classic elegance to any space. While the watercolor brush strokes provide softness to your walls, the style also allows each vine to have subtle variations in tone which add a ton of depth and nuance to the wallpaper while still maintaining its simplicity. The Priano Wallpaper is available in darker shades such as navy, green, and brown for a bolder look as well as pastel blue and pink for a more understated appearance. The material of the paper also felt very thick and sturdy, a good indication of the overall quality and durability of this product.
During application, our tester found the material very manageable and easy to work with, as she had no issues while cutting or pasting. The wallpaper came out with a super smooth finish and no leftover bubbles or wrinkles. After spilling a considerable amount of liquids and other filth onto the wallpaper, we found that the cleaning process was effortless, as everything wiped off completely with no residue, staining, or fading. After three months, the Priano Wallpaper looked good as new, with no peeling or bubbling visible.
This wallpaper’s quality adds a lot of value to the product, particularly given the modest price. All in all, its timeless look and durability will make it a stunning and long-lasting addition to your home.
Price at time of publish: $128
Material: Paper | Roll Size: 324 x 27 inches | Coverage Per Roll: 60.75 square feet | Colors: Navy, light blue, pastel pink, brown, green
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Dera Burreson
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Dera Burreson
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Dera Burreson
Best Budget
Graham & Brown Crocodile Black Wallpaper
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Graham & Brown
Crocodile skin texture helps cover minor imperfections
Cleans well with no stains or fading
Great value for price point
Application process is a bit tricky
Some visible printing mistakes
Despite its low price point, the Graham & Brown Black Vinyl Wallpaper Roll features a high-end look that incorporates both texture and dimension into your space. Constructed with a crocodile skin texture, this option brings a sophisticated and subdued appearance to your walls—without being so imposing that it draws attention away from the rest of your decor. While our testers did notice a few printing errors on the wallpaper itself, its textured surface helps minimize the appearance of minor imperfections overall. Available in black, navy, gold, and dark green, this wallpaper is a great option for those looking to add some luxury to their home without having to break the bank.
While we do enjoy the design and overall value of the product, this may not be the right choice for beginners who want to put up the wallpaper themselves. We found the material hard to work with at times; our tester noted that the wallpaper curled a lot, which transferred glue to the outside of the paper and formed significant bubbles during application. If this is your first time hanging up wallpaper, you might want to opt for a more manageable material or look into professional installation.
Regardless of some application hiccups, we were impressed with how well all of the stains came off during cleaning. Because of its vinyl material, everything wiped away easily using just a cloth and water without any residual stains or fading. Three months after the initial application, however, we did notice some peeling at the corners and edges of the strips.
Price at time of publish: $54
Material: Vinyl | Roll Size: 396 x 20.5 inches | Coverage Per Roll: 56 square feet | Colors: Black, navy, gold, dark green
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Meredith Campbell
Best Splurge
A-Street Prints Cheng Light Brown Woven Grasscloth Wallpaper
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A-Street Prints
Timeless and simple design
Woven texture hides imperfections
Thick and high-quality material
Pricey
Difficult to clean
For those willing to spend a bit more money on wallpaper that instantly elevates the look of any space, the Light Brown Woven Grasscloth Wallpaper is a timeless earth-toned pick made with a high-quality and luxurious texture. During application, we were immediately impressed by just how easy the material was to work with, as the grasscloth wallpaper was extremely thick and easy to cut. As an added bonus, this wallpaper features a woven twine texture rather than the typical pattern, so you don’t have to line anything up when pasting it on the wall. We also loved the overall look of the wallpaper, as the neutral yet textured material adds a ton of understated elegance to a room. Made with light gray, tan, and light brown interlacing grasses, its design is sure to match well with a wide range of decor styles without being too distracting or commanding.
While the wallpaper’s texture helps hide imperfections, we did find that actually cleaning spillage off of it proved to be quite difficult. Colors and stains faded into the paper, so this may not be the best option for high-traffic areas or households with young children. After three months, this wallpaper held up fairly well, besides some corners peeling up. Other than that, there were no bubbles or imperfections visible and the wallpaper remained smooth throughout.
Overall, while the price point of the Cheng Woven Grasscloth Wallpaper might be higher than other options on the market, it’s definitely worth it for those who are willing to splurge on an elegant wallpaper that you’ll be able to keep forever.
Price at time of publish: $658
Material: Grasscloth | Roll Size: 288 x 36 inches | Coverage Per Roll: 72 square feet | Colors: Tan
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The Spruce / Dera Burreson
Best Peel and Stick
Rifle Paper Co. Luxembourg Peel & Stick Wallpaper
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Wayfair
Easy to apply
Great value for price point
Removable and repositionable
Thick material with semi-matte finish
There may be color variations in different print runs
Peel-and-stick wallpapers are a great option for renters or commitment-phobes, as they can typically be removed without damaging the wall underneath. Inspired by French palace gardens, the Rifle Paper Co. Luxembourg Peel & Stick Wallpaper’s sophisticated design features mirrored images of flowers, plants, and birds for an artistic and romantic aesthetic. It’s available in black, navy, and white colorways, so whether you’re into a darker vibe or want to brighten up the space, this option will mesh well with your design preferences.
When applying this wallpaper, our tester was very impressed with the material—it was easy to work with and went up flawlessly. “Even someone without experience could tackle a wallpaper project with this product and have it look like a professional application,” she said. In addition, we also found that the process of repositioning and removing the wallpaper was simple, as it didn’t leave any residue or stick to itself.
When shopping for removable wallpaper, Kathy Kuo, interior designer and founder of Kathy Kuo Home, notes that you’ll want to pay attention to the surface you’ll adhere it to, as well as the room it will be in. “Removable wallpaper typically does not adhere well to matte or textured surfaces,” she says. “It’s also recommended that you avoid exposing removable wallpaper to prolonged heat or direct light.” Kuo recommends using a peel-and-stick wallpaper on a smooth surface, such as one that is primed and painted or has a satin or semi-gloss finish.
Price at time of publish: $62
Material: Vinyl | Roll Size: 240 x 27 inches | Coverage Per Roll: 45 square feet | Colors: Navy, black, white
Best Mural
Mind The Gap Yuyuan Wallpaper
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2Modern
Heavy paper with satin matte finish
Artistic, eye-catching design
Cleans well with no stains or fading
Easy to apply
Higher price point
Can draw attention away from other decor
If you’re looking to decorate your walls with a design that’s elevated beyond the typical pattern, the MIND THE GAP Yujuan Wallpaper is a great option. Illustrating a stunning landscape inspired by Chinese gardens, the scenic wallpaper features vibrant greens, reds, and yellows that will brighten up and add character to your space. The material itself proved to be a worthy canvas for this artwork, with our tester noting that the non-woven material felt heavy and high-quality. We also loved the satin matte finish of the wallpaper.
With labeled strips that designate the order you should adhere them in, putting up this wallpaper is straightforward. In fact, our tester found the application of this wallpaper so simple, she said it practically put itself up. The material cut extremely crisp, and because of its thickness, the few bubbles that formed during the application process rolled out very easily. We also found that any spills wiped off completely without color transfer or other remnants. After leaving the wallpaper up for three months, we noticed a bit of peeling at the corners, but nothing that couldn't be fixed with a little adhesive. Other than that, there weren't any visible imperfections. Overall, even though this option is a bit pricey, its high-quality material and rich, saturated artistry make it a truly one-of-a-kind pick.
Price at time of publish: $220
Material: Non-woven | Roll Size: 118 x 20.5 inches (3 rolls included) | Coverage Per Roll: Not specified | Colors: Multicolored
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Meredith Campbell
Best Floral
Mark D. Sikes Floral Wallpaper
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Anthropologie
Easy to apply
Thick and sturdy texture
Design is vibrant and clear
Stains and fading visible after cleaning
Limited color options
While floral patterns have long been a dominant design in wallpaper styles, they don’t have to feel antiquated or tired. The Mark D. Sikes Floral Wallpaper adds a romantic and elegant touch to any space, featuring intricate and graceful flowers that feel timeless. The wallpaper utilizes different shades of blue to color the flowers and has a cream background, which creates a cohesive look that can easily complement a wide range of decor. Our tester said that in person, the print looked very vibrant and clear, while the material itself, which is made with non-woven paper, felt extremely thick and well-made.
As our tester applied this wallpaper, she raved about how trouble-free the material was to work with, even saying that the process was easier than some peel-and-stick wallpapers she’s tried in the past. She was able to unroll, cut, and paste the wallpaper with no wrinkles or imperfections, making it a great option for first-timers who may require a material that’s straightforward and manageable. While we were impressed with the application process, this wallpaper might be better suited for low-traffic rooms that you won’t have to clean as often, as its durability fell short. During testing, some darker stains would not come off completely, and the paper itself would fade when scrubbed too hard. After three months, this wallpaper looked nearly perfect other than some minor bubbling in a small section near the outlet. Overall, we were impressed by this wallpaper and if you're looking for a high-end look that’s easy to apply, the Mark D. Sikes Floral Wallpaper will get the job done.
Price at time of publish: $168
Material: Non-woven paper | Roll Size: 396 x 18 inches | Coverage Per Roll: 49.5 square feet | Colors: Blue
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Derra Burreson
Best for Nurseries
Printfresh Antelope Garden Wallpaper
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Anthropologie
Vibrant, fun, and detailed design
Cleans well with no stains or fading
Thick, sturdy feel
Easy to crease or tear upon application
When designing a nursery, you’ll want to pick out a wallpaper that’s both durable and kid-friendly. If you’re looking for a bold, playful pattern, the Printfresh Antelope Garden Wallpaper at Anthropologie is a great choice that both you and your kid can appreciate. Showcasing whimsical imagery of zebras, antelopes, trees, and flowers, this wallpaper is available in green and cream backgrounds, each with a unique and vibrant palette that makes for an aesthetically pleasing and eccentric design. We loved how crisp and clear the design printed on the wallpaper itself, and the non-woven paper felt nice and thick for a high-end look.
As our tester was applying this product, she that it was easy to roll, paste, and smooth out. However, she did note that if you’re not careful or don’t use enough pressure, the material can easily tear or crease. In addition to choosing a wallpaper with a youthful design for your nursery, it’s also important that you pick an option that cleans well and can handle the occasional mess. Accidents happen, and you’ll want durable wallpaper for when the inevitable kid-induced smear, splatter, or smudge hits the walls. The Printfresh Antelope Garden Wallpaper impressed us with how well it could handle the mess (which includes crayons, coffee, and barbecue sauce), and everything came off quickly with a wet cloth without any stains or fading. Three months after applying the wallpaper, we noticed that it held up nicely, apart from the smallest peel on one of the corners. Otherwise, the product had no visible imperfections.
Price at time of publish: $148
Material: Non-woven paper | Roll Size: 324 x 27 inches | Coverage Per Roll: 60.75 square feet | Colors: Green, ivory
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Meredith Campbell
Best Minimalist
Chasing Paper Peel and Stick Wallpaper
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The Spruce / Theresa Holland
Both traditional paper and peel-and-stick available
Thick and sturdy paper material
Overall easy to apply
Some stains left marks
Limited color options
While more intricate patterns may be a great addition to some spaces, others may require a more minimalist approach. Minimalist wallpaper can add a subtle yet effective design element to any room, and the Emma Darvick Long Lines Wallpaper is our favorite in this category. With an off-white background and charcoal lines of various lengths and angles, this simplistic and modern wallpaper is easy on the eyes and won’t distract from the rest of your decor. Our tester noted how sturdy and thick the material felt, and we loved the look of the smooth matte finish of this wallpaper. While we tested the traditional wallpaper, this design is also available in a peel-and-stick version, which is made from poly-woven fabric.
Due to its uncomplicated pattern, this wallpaper was very easy to line up during application—a plus for DIY novices. Any bubbles that formed easily went away using a smoothing tool, and the wallpaper was easy to adjust and reposition without any issues. During the cleaning process, we did notice that most spillages came off fairly well, but some residual stains remained. After three months, this wallpaper had no issues other than some minor peeling at the corners and one of the sides. For the most part, we think this wallpaper is a fairly reasonable price for its overall quality, especially considering the product is printed with Greenguard Gold Certified ink and is free from VOCs, PVC, and phthalates.
Price at time of publish: $120
Material: Choice of traditional paper or peel-and-stick poly-woven fabric | Roll Size: Choice of 48 x 24, 96 x 24, 144 x 24 inches | Coverage Per Roll: 8, 16, or 24 square feet | Colors: Offwhite and charcoal
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Meredith Campbell
Best Animal
Rifle Paper Co. Dark Green Peacock Wallpaper Roll
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Wayfair
Easy to apply
Several colors available
Sturdy, thick paper
Stains and fading still visible after cleaning
Paper somewhat difficult to cut
White edge along seam visible against the dark background
Fill your home with lush wildlife and abundant flora with the Peacock 27' x 27" Wallpaper Roll at Rifle Paper Co. This wallpaper features gorgeous imagery of elegant peacocks, trees, and flowers that bring a ton of flair into any space. We love how clear and crisp the print looked on the wallpaper, and the colors looked vibrant in person. Additionally, this product is available in multiple colorways, including black, blue and white, dark green, green and ivory, green and red, light pink, and navy. The abundance of color palettes to choose from ensures that no matter the color of your furniture or decor, you’ll be able to find an option that will mesh well with your room.
As our tester put up this wallpaper, she found that the material’s sturdiness allowed for a seamless application with little to no bubbles, folds, or wrinkles. The material was somewhat difficult to cut, but that may come with the territory due to the thickness of the non-woven material. While the pattern itself was easy to line up with one another, our tester noted that a white edge along the seam of the paper was visible against the darker background of the wallpaper despite being applied correctly. The paper also wasn’t the easiest to clean, as after wiping down the surface some stains remained and fading occurred. Three months post-application, just one corner started to peel, but there were no issues otherwise.
Price at time of publish: $110
Material: Non-woven | Roll Size: 324 x 27 inches | Coverage Per Roll: 60.75 square feet | Colors: Black, blue and white, dark green, green and ivory, green and red, light pink, navy
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Dera Burreson
Best Colorful
Fineapple Pair Boho Tropical Wallpaper
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Spoonflower
Fabric-like material
Multiple wallpaper types available
Vibrant, bold, and clear pattern
Slight learning curve with overlapping panels
High price point
Not all stains came completely off post-scrub
Vibrant designs are a great way to bring visual interest into a space, and this wallpaper’s lively and colorful pattern makes it a great choice if you’re looking to add a feature wall to your home. The Fineapple Pair Boho Tropical Wallpaper showcases an array of leaves, flowers, mandalas, and other bohemian shapes in a unique colorway. Our tester noted that the colors, which include hues of coral, dark green, orange, yellow, and black, looked very bold and lively, while the pattern itself was very clear and had no pixelation. Although this product is only available in one design, you can choose from a number of different wallpaper types for different textures and finish options, including Non-Pasted Traditional Pebble, Grasscloth, Peel and Stick, and Prepasted Removable Smooth.
During the application process, we found the Non-Pasted Traditional Pebble material was overall easy to work with, as it had a thick, fabric-like feel and didn’t wrinkle during adhesion. However, this wallpaper did require you to slightly overlap one panel with the other, which our tester noted was a bit more difficult than lining them up edge to edge. In addition, when testing the product’s durability, we found that while almost all of the stains came off well, slight remnants lasted post-scrub. Additionally, we did notice some bubbles and peeling three months later. In general, this wallpaper might be on the pricier side, but we think its contrast and vibrant pattern add a ton of character to any wall and is well worth the price.
Price at time of publish: $214
Material: Choice of pebble, grasscloth, peel and stick, or prepasted removable smooth | Roll Size: 324 x 25 inches | Coverage Per Roll: Not specified | Colors: Multicolored
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Dera Burreson
Best Washable
The House of Scalamandre Light Blue Scalamandre Floral Wallpaper Roll by Sandberg
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Perigold
Simple application
Easy to clean and stain resistant
Held up well long-term
Material a bit flimsy
Perfect for high-traffic rooms or areas that are prone to mess, washable wallpapers are much more equipped to tackle consistent scrubbing or sponging. The House of Scalamandre Floral Roll Wallpaper by Sandberg is made to withstand cleanings, without as much risk of damaging the wallpaper itself. We loved the subdued yet elegant look of this wallpaper, as the monochromatic design of flowers and plants provides a timeless look to any space.
Our tester found this wallpaper overall easy to apply, as the material cut and adhered to the wall without any issues. Lining up the pattern was simple enough, and our tester was able to reposition it easily when she messed up. However, we did notice that the paper itself was a bit flimsy so pasting it onto the wall was a bit challenging. Additionally, this wallpaper delivered on durability, as cleaning it was extremely simple and everything came off with a damp towel without any staining or fading. At the three-month mark, the wallpaper seemed to hold up very well since it looked as good as new. While the House of Scalamandre Floral Roll Wallpaper is on the pricier end of the spectrum, we think it’s a great option for those who want a durable, easy-to-clean wallpaper that can endure some messiness.
Price at time of publish: $223
Material: Paper | Roll Size: 396 x 20.87 inches | Coverage Per Roll: 57.39 square feet | Colors: Blue, green
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The Spruce / Dera Burreson
Best Splurge
Flavor Paper Moujik Wallpaper
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Flavor Paper
Retro and unique design
Multiple colors and wallpaper types available
Cleans well with no stains or fading
Pricey
A bit difficult to readjust the paper once applied
For those willing to spend a bit more money on wallpaper with a ton of character, the Flavor Paper Moujik Wallpaper is an attention-grabbing pick that’ll stand out in any home. Flavor Paper offers unconventional, art-centered designs you won’t find anywhere else, and this wallpaper is no exception with its retro and unique pattern. This wallpaper’s design is derived from Andy Warhol’s 1986 interpretation of Yves Saint Laurent’s French Bulldog Moujik, which features his signature outlined technique and an atypical repeating pattern. The wallpaper adds a ton of spunk to any space, and it’s sure to be a conversation starter that can be appreciated by both art aficionados and dog lovers alike. Available in blue, black, pink, and brown colorways with multiple materials, the highly customizable pick is a great choice for anyone who’s willing to splurge a bit for an engaging and funky wallpaper.
During application, our tester found the heavy material to be overall great to work with, as the pasting and smoothing process was effortless. However, it was a bit difficult to reposition the paper once it was already up, so you’ll definitely want to make sure it’s aligned properly during the initial application. In addition, we were impressed with the product’s overall durability, since any soil that was spilled was easily wiped up without any issues of staining or fading.
Overall, while the price point of the Moujik Wallpaper might be higher than other options on the market, it’s definitely worth it for those who want to showcase their personality in their home.
Price at time of publish: $330
Material: Choice of mylar, vinyl, or clay coated paper | Roll Size: 180 x 27 inches | Coverage Per Roll: Not specified | Colors: Blue, black and white, pink, brown
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Meredith Campbell
Best Washable
Magnolia Home By Joanna Gaines Pick Up Sticks Spray and Stick Wallpaper
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Home Depot
Thick material
All stains were removed completely with ease
Primer and adhesive not needed with spray and stick method
Many air pockets formed during application
Perfect for high-traffic rooms or areas that are prone to mess, washable wallpapers are much more equipped to tackle consistent scrubbing or sponging. The Magnolia Home by Joanna Gaines Pick Up Sticks Wallpaper is made to withstand cleanings, without as much risk of damaging the wallpaper itself. Its simplistic design features soft lines that create a herringbone pattern and would match well with a wide range of decor and home styles. Available in black, navy, gray, and white, this removable wallpaper is a great choice for kitchens, living rooms, laundry rooms, bathrooms, and any other space you may find yourself cleaning often.
Unlike traditional wallpapers, the Pick Up Sticks Wallpaper comes with a water-activated pre-pasted backing. Rather than using an adhesive to put it up, all you need to do is spray the wallpaper with water and stick it onto the wall. Our tester said that while this process generally worked well, she did notice a significant amount of air pockets that formed during application. However, when testing how it would perform against dirt and spillage, this wallpaper held up very nicely. Using just a wet cloth, we were able to easily clean up all of the stains—without any staining or fading.
Price at time of publish: $110
Material: Paper | Roll Size: 396 x 20.5 inches | Coverage Per Roll: 56 square feet | Colors: Black, blue, gray, white
Of all the options we tested, The Priano Wallpaper from Serena & Lily earns our top pick because of its painless application, thick and sturdy material, charming design, and durability. For a more affordable pick, we also loved the Graham & Brown Black Vinyl Non-Pasted Moisture Resistant Wallpaper Roll. The textured finish and classic look bring a ton of value to this relatively low-cost option.
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The Spruce / Meredith Campbell
How We Tested
After researching the most beloved, top-rated wallpapers currently on the market, we gathered 30 options and put them to the test in The Lab in Des Moines, Iowa. Each wallpaper option was applied to a smooth section of drywall with a nearby outlet. We then assessed the wallpapers’ ease of application, paying attention to how simple it was to line up the patterns or designs from sheet to sheet, how manageable the material was when cutting and adhering, and whether or not we could reposition the wallpaper if needed. We then rated the wallpapers’ design, taking note of the clarity and flawlessness of the pattern or image as well as the thickness, feel, and quality of the material. To gauge the wallpapers’ durability, we soiled the wallpapers with various household substances and cleaned them to see whether or not the stains came out without color transfer or fading. Finally, we assessed the wallpapers’ value by comparing the retail price with the wallpapers’ overall quality. In addition to our standard lab testing, we also conducted long-term testing for all 30 options, seeing how they held up over the course of three months. We analyzed each product’s scores and insights along with our supplemental research to compile this list of the wallpapers we think are the best.
What to Look for When Buying Wallpaper
Pattern Scale
Once you’ve committed to wallpapering a room, you’ll want to consider the scale of the design you choose. The size, shape, and color of the pattern on your wallpaper will greatly influence the overall look and feel of the room, according to Mikel Welch, New York-based interior designer. “Larger patterns will dominate the space, so reserve this look for walls without a ton of furniture or anything that may compete,” he says. “Oddly, small patterns can often read a bit neutral, as tight patterns seem to mesh together and fade towards the back of the wall.”
Size
Sounds simple enough: the bigger the space you plan to cover, the more expensive your project will be. Not only because you’ll need more rolls—and whatever you do, don’t underestimate how many rolls you’ll need—but, if you’re hiring out applying wallpaper, your labor costs will increase too.
If you’re on a budget, consider saving wallpapering the living room for another time, and covering a hallway or bathroom, where you’ll get more design bang for your buck, instead.
Material and Finish
There are a number of different materials and finishes wallpaper can be made with, which can affect the application process, durability, and texture. Many patterned wallpapers have tactile surfaces, including those made with grasscloth, burlap, foil, vinyl, and fabric. According to Kathy Kuo, interior designer and founder of Kathy Kuo Home, these materials can produce different textures that can serve different purposes in a room. “Reflective papers can add glamor or light up a room just like a mirror can, and handcrafted tactile papers have a three-dimensional quality that enhances the layered, textured look of a space,” she says. “Textured wallpaper can also camouflage wall imperfections that other wallpapers cannot.”
When comparing the materials and finishes of different wallpaper options online, it may be difficult to get a grasp of how it will look in person, so it’s important to always request or purchase a sample so you can see how it will look with the rest of your space.
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Can you paint over wallpaper?
You can paint over some wallpaper, but most painting experts will encourage you to remove it—and the remaining residue—for the best results. Good news: in general, the wallpapers that are bad to paint over are often easy to remove, and the wallpaper that is difficult to remove is usually a good candidate for painting over. If you’re working with multiple layers of wallpaper, though, it may be best to paint over it. If you do choose to paint over wallpaper, you’ll want to properly prep the walls by washing them with a barely damp cloth, repairing any damage to the wallpaper, priming, and then finally painting.
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Which surfaces are best for wallpaper?
According to Welch, flat and non-textured walls are best suited for wallpaper application, as they provide a surface that the paper can adhere to evenly. You may need to apply a primer or liner to a rough or textured wall beforehand in order to smooth the finish as much as possible. If you’re unsure whether or not you can feasibly apply wallpaper onto a surface, you may want to opt for professional consultation and installation.
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What’s the difference between peel-and-stick and traditional wallpaper?
Traditional wallpaper usually requires a more intensive application process that involves using an adhesive or paste to bond it to the wall. In contrast, applying peel-and-stick wallpaper is typically simpler, as it comes with removable adhesive backing. Peel and stick wallpaper can also easily be taken down, and removing it is quicker and won’t damage the wall underneath.
“Peel-and-stick is great for the consumer who doesn’t want to commit to a pattern for life,” says Welch. “This gives you the flexibility to change your mind in a few months when trends change or if you get bored.” This being said, traditional wallpaper is usually made with longevity in mind, so it typically has a longer lifespan than peel-and-stick wallpaper.
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The Spruce / Meredith Campbell
Why Trust The Spruce?
This article was written by Bianca Pineda, a commerce writer specializing in bedding, bath, and home decor at the Spruce. To compile this list, she consulted lab testing insights, assessed numerous customer reviews, and conducted supplemental research about the topic. All of the products in this roundup met our quality standards during the research process and performed the best during our lab tests.
In addition, Pineda also spoke to experts in the field in order to gather some guidance regarding the different materials and finishes of wallpapers, overall styling tips for shoppers, and choosing the right pattern scale and colors for your space. Insight was provided by Kathy Kuo, interior designer and founder of Kathy Kuo Home and Mikel Welch, a New York-based interior designer and TV personality.
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Here at The Spruce, we want to ensure we fully stand behind every product we recommend and that when we say something is the best, we mean it. You might have noticed The Spruce Approved badge next to the products on this list. Every product with this badge has been rigorously tested in person and carefully selected by our expert team of lab testers and editors. In most cases, we buy all these products ourselves, though occasionally, we get samples provided to us directly by companies. No matter how we procure products, they all go through the same tests and must meet the same strict criteria to make the best-of cut.