Temporary Wallpaper Tips: How to Choose the Right One for Your Space
Looking to refresh your walls without the long-term commitment? Temporary wallpaper is the perfect solution for UK homeowners and renters who want to add personality and style to their spaces without the mess or hassle of traditional wallpaper. From peel and stick options to repositionable mural designs, there’s a style to suit every taste and room.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to choose the right temporary wallpaper for your home – whether you’re after bold prints, soft neutrals, or something uniquely British.
What Is Temporary Wallpaper?
Temporary wallpaper, also known as removable or peel and stick wallpaper, is designed to be easily applied and removed without damaging your walls. It’s ideal for renters, seasonal decorators, or anyone who loves to change up their interiors frequently.
Most temporary wallpapers come with a self-adhesive backing – no paste, no water, and no stress. Simply peel off the backing and stick it to a clean, smooth surface.
1. Consider Your Space and Purpose
Before choosing a design, think about the function of the room:
Living Room: Opt for stylish prints like abstract wallpaper or textured looks to create a modern focal wall.
Bedrooms: Go for soothing colours or nature-inspired prints to promote relaxation.
Bathrooms or Kitchens: Look for moisture-resistant peel and stick wallpaper that can withstand splashes and steam.
Kids’ Rooms: Choose fun, whimsical patterns that can be easily updated as they grow.
Pro Tip: Check out our guide on The Ultimate Guide to Removable Peel and Stick Wallpaper for more room-by-room styling tips.
2. Choose the Right Material
Not all temporary wallpapers are created equal. Here are a few popular options in the UK market:
Vinyl Peel and Stick Wallpaper: Durable and waterproof, great for high-traffic or humid areas.
Fabric-Backed Wallpaper: Softer and more premium-looking, ideal for feature walls in bedrooms or lounges.
Paper-Based Temporary Wallpaper: More affordable, but best for low-traffic areas.
Always read the product specs before buying – especially if you're planning to install it in a kitchen or bathroom.
Related: Tips To Consider While Choosing Wallpaper For Walls
It might sound obvious, but accurate measuring is key. Measure both the height and width of your wall, then double-check how much area each wallpaper roll covers. Always order a little extra to account for trimming and pattern matching.
Not sure how much you need? Most UK wallpaper retailers offer a calculator tool on product pages to help you work it out.
4. Test Before You Commit
Before going all in, order a sample. Stick it to your wall and observe how it looks in different lighting conditions throughout the day. This is especially helpful if you’re choosing bold patterns like cityscape wallpaper or floral murals.
Natural light can make wallpaper colours appear different than under artificial lighting – test both!
5. Think About Style and Trends
Temporary wallpaper gives you the freedom to experiment, so why not have some fun?
Love the Art Deco look? Try a bold geometric design.
Prefer cosy countryside charm? Opt for botanical or nature wallpaper.
Want something playful? Go with rainbow wallpaper for a cheerful pop of colour.
See our favourite 2025 Peel and Stick Wallpaper Trends to spark ideas.
6. Don’t Overlook Installation
One of the best things about temporary wallpaper is how easy it is to install. But there are still a few things to keep in mind:
Clean your wall thoroughly before applying.
Use a smoothing tool to prevent bubbles.
Start from the top and work your way down slowly.
For renters: Make sure your wall paint is fully cured and not flaking, or it could peel off when removing the wallpaper.
When you’re ready for a change, simply peel it off! Most temporary wallpapers come off cleanly, but to be safe:
Pull gently at a 45-degree angle.
Use a hairdryer to loosen the adhesive if needed.
Temporary wallpaper is especially handy for student accommodation, rented flats, and short-term lets across the UK.
Temporary wallpaper is more than just a trend – it’s a flexible, renter-friendly, and budget-conscious way to inject style into your home. Whether you’re decorating your first flat in London or updating your countryside cottage in the Cotswolds, there’s a removable wallpaper to suit your space and personality.
Explore our wide range of removable wallpapers and find the perfect design for your UK home. From calming botanicals to statement murals, we’ve got a style for every room and every vibe.