Wallpaper has made a serious comeback in recent years, and we’re not mad about it. From bold prints to subtle textures, wallpaper can totally transform a room. But did you know that there are actually different types of wallpaper—and choosing the right one can make or break your project?
Whether you’re wallpapering a humid bathroom, a textured wall, or just trying to avoid a DIY disaster, here’s a breakdown of the most common application and material types, plus the pros and cons of each.
Application Types
Peel and Stick Wallpaper
This renter-friendly option is basically a giant sticker—just peel off the backing and smooth it onto the wall.
Pros:
- Easy to install and remove (great for commitment-phobes!)
- No water or paste needed
- Ideal for rentals or temporary spaces
- Typically more affordable
Cons:
- Can be tricky to line up patterns perfectly
- Doesn’t always stick well to textured walls
- May peel in humid areas (like bathrooms)
- Sometimes leaves residue when removed
Pre-Pasted Wallpaper
Pre-pasted wallpaper comes with adhesive on the back—just add water to activate it.
Pros:
- Easier than traditional wallpaper, but still looks polished
- No messy paste to mix or apply
- Moderate skill level to install
- Good for smooth walls
Cons:
- Can dry quickly and be tricky to adjust once applied
- May not stick well to textured or high-humidity surfaces
- Removal can be labor-intensive
Traditional (Unpasted) Wallpaper
This is your classic wallpaper. You apply the paste yourself before placing it on the wall.
Pros:
- Often comes in more luxurious or higher-end styles
- Sticks well and lasts a long time
- Best for intricate designs or textured papers
Cons:
- Requires more skill and prep
- Messy to install (hello, glue bucket)
- Harder to remove down the road
Material Types
Grasscloth Wallpaper
Made from natural fibers like jute, hemp, or arrowroot, grasscloth adds rich texture and depth to any room.
Pros:
- Beautiful, organic texture
- Adds dimension and high-end style
- Unique, handcrafted look
Cons:
- Can’t be wiped down or cleaned easily
- Seams are visible (part of the aesthetic, but not for everyone)
- Not ideal for high-traffic or humid areas
Metallic Wallpaper
This wallpaper has a foil or shimmer element that reflects light beautifully.
Pros:
- Eye-catching and leans modern
- Great for adding drama or glam, especially to the ceiling
- Reflects light—can brighten up darker rooms
Cons:
- Shows wall imperfections more than other types
- Can be harder to install (creases and bubbles show easily)
- May not suit every style
Standard Paper Wallpaper
The classic print-on-paper wallpaper. Comes in every style under the sun.
Pros:
- Wide variety of patterns, colors, and price points
- Easy to find and fairly simple to install
- Works in most rooms
Cons:
- Not very durable (tears easily)
- Can be hard to clean (especially with kids or pets)
- Not ideal for moisture-prone rooms
The right wallpaper can take your space from basic to breathtaking—but not all wallpaper is created equal. Think about where it’s going, how long you want it to last, and how much effort you want to put into installation (and removal).
Quick tip: Always order a sample first and test it on your wall before committing to 10 rolls of something that peels in a week!
Shop our favorite wallpapers here!
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