Choosing the Right Wallpaper Type for Your Space -

Choosing the Right Wallpaper Type for Your Space.

Choosing the right wallpaper type makes all the difference. Each option has its own benefits depending on the room, surface, and how long you'd like it to last. Whether you're after renter friendly wallpaper or something more permanent, I've got you covered. Here's a simple guide to help you decide what works best for your project.

All my custom wallpaper designs are printed on eco friendly wallpaper substrates through Spoonflower's made to order wallpaper service, so you get the quality and sustainability you want without the wait of traditional manufacturing.

Peel and Stick Wallpaper - removable & renter-friendly.

If you're renting or love switching up your style, peel and stick wallpaper is your friend. This removable wallpaper has a self-adhesive backing, so no paste required – just peel off the backing and stick it straight onto the wall.

Best for:

  • Renters who want to personalise without losing their deposit
  • Quick accent walls or feature walls
  • DIY projects and room refreshes
  • Craft projects, furniture makeovers, or drawer liners

Where it works well:

  • Smooth, primed walls only
  • Bedrooms, living rooms, home offices
  • Low to moderate humidity spaces

Not recommended for:

  • Textured walls (it won't stick properly)
  • Bathrooms or high-moisture rooms
  • Areas where you need long-term durability

The beauty of peel and stick is that it's completely reversible. When you move house or fancy a change, it can be removed without damaging the wall underneath.

Pre-pasted Wallpaper - smooth, water-activated.

Pre pasted wallpaper comes with adhesive already applied to the back – you just activate it with water during installation. This water activated wallpaper gives you a smooth, professional finish and is surprisingly beginner-friendly for a DIY install.

Best for:

  • First-time wallpaper hangers
  • Homeowners wanting a polished look
  • Temporary or long-term projects
  • Anyone who wants easier cleanup than traditional paste

Where it works well:

  • Smooth, primed walls
  • Bedrooms, hallways, offices, living rooms
  • Low to moderate humidity areas

Installation note:
You'll need a wallpaper tray and sponge to activate the paste, but the process is much cleaner than mixing your own adhesive. It's also fully recyclable when you're ready for a change.

Traditional Wallpaper - unpasted, commercial grade

Traditional wallpaper or commercial wallpaper is the classic choice that needs separate wallpaper paste. This commercial grade wallpaper gives you the strongest, most durable finish and works well for long-term installations.

Best for:

  • Permanent installations
  • High-quality, professional finish
  • Residential and light commercial use
  • Anyone wanting the most traditional approach

Where it works well:

  • Smooth or slightly textured walls
  • Low-moisture bathrooms, kitchens, offices
  • Any room where you want longevity

Professional tip:
While this is often called "paste the wall wallpaper," you actually paste the back of the wallpaper itself. The pebbled texture and matte finish make it incredibly durable and forgiving for everyday living.

Vinyl Wallpaper - commercial grade, heavy-duty.

Vinyl wallpaper is the heavy-duty option. This commercial grade wallpaper is wipeable, scrub-resistant, and perfect for high-traffic areas where you need interior wallpaper that can handle daily wear and tear.

Best for:

  • High-traffic hallways and entryways
  • Kitchens and family bathrooms
  • Commercial spaces like restaurants, offices, or shops
  • Families with young children or pets

Where it works well:

  • Smooth or slightly textured walls
  • Low-moisture areas like powder rooms or kitchens
  • Spaces that need regular cleaning

The practical choice:
If you need wallpaper for walls that get a lot of use, vinyl is your answer. It has a subtle leather-like texture and can handle whatever life throws at it.

Grasscloth Wallpaper - luxury, textured & natural.

Grasscloth wallpaper is woven from natural sisal grass fibres, making it the most luxurious and textured wallpaper option. This woven wallpaper adds incredible depth, warmth, and organic texture to interiors.

Best for:

  • Feature walls and accent walls
  • Adding natural texture and visual interest
  • Bedrooms, studies, living rooms, or dining rooms
  • Creating a sophisticated, high-end look

Where it works best:

  • Lower-traffic areas
  • Rooms with stable humidity levels
  • Above chair rails or out of reach from daily contact

Handle with care:
Because grasscloth is 100% natural, it's more delicate than other options. It's not wipeable and can show marks easily, so it's not suitable for high-traffic areas, bathrooms, or anywhere with curious little hands.

Which Wallpaper Type Should You Choose?

If you're renting: Go for peel and stick wallpaper – it's completely removable and won't affect your deposit.

If you're new to wallpaper: Pre-pasted is your best bet for a DIY project that looks professional.

If you want something permanent: Traditional wallpaper gives you the most durable, classic finish.

If you need it to be practical: Vinyl wallpaper can handle moisture, traffic, and daily life without missing a beat.

If you want luxury and texture: Grasscloth wallpaper creates the most sophisticated, natural look.

About My Made to Order Wallpaper

All my designs are available as made to order wallpaper in any of these types. I can also recolour or rescale any pattern for free to make sure it works perfectly in your space. Whether you need custom wallpaper for a specific project or just want to tweak one of my existing designs, I'm here to help make it work.

If you're not sure which type is right for your project, drop me a message. I've helped hundreds of customers choose the perfect wallpaper for walls in every kind of space, from tiny rental flats to commercial fitouts. Happy to talk through your specific needs and make sure you get exactly what you're after.

Still not sure? Order a swatch first – it's always worth seeing the texture and quality in person before committing to a full wall.