To keep you from experiencing removable wallpaper disasters, we tested 28 different removable wallpapers in our Lab and evaluated them based on ease of application, design, ease of removal, and overall value. For expert insight into buying and using removable wallpaper, we spoke to Alessandra Wood, Ph.D, design historian and vice president of style at the online interior design service Modsy. “Removable wallpaper is an easy, low commitment way to totally transform your space,” says Wood. “You can add daring colors and patterns, lean into fun trends, and create a unique backdrop that’s fairly easy to change when you tire of it. It’s also a great option for renters to make a space feel more personalized without sacrificing your deposit.” Our top pick is the Better Homes & Gardens Organic Stripe Peel & Stick Wallpaper because of its seamless application and removal (Better Homes & Gardens is owned by Real Simple’s parent company, Dotdash Meredith). Plus, it’s thick with a satin finish, making it appear much more expensive than it is. Keep reading for more of our top removable wallpaper picks. You’ll also find expert tips for buying and using removable wallpaper to add interest to your space. Who it isn’t for: People who want non-vinyl wallpaper. This 100 percent vinyl wallpaper doesn’t have the cheap, plasticky look characteristic of some vinyl wallpaper. Our testers described it as high quality and thick with a satin finish that looks and feels like paper. During application, it was easy to match up the pattern, although gridlines would have been helpful for cutting straight across and lining up patterns. Bubbles did appear during application—as is to be expected—but testers say they come out easily with the use of a squeegee tool. In fact, our tester had never applied wallpaper prior to this testing, and still found the process easy from start to finish, leading us to believe this would be a great pick for anyone new to removable wallpaper. The eye-catching geometric pattern features white watercolor matchsticks on a black background. The bold design combined with the vinyl construction make this wallpaper a great way to add accents to high-moisture environments such as a bathroom or kitchen, while the neutral color scheme fits with just about any existing decor. It’s also available in black and white, if you want something a bit brighter. The removal and reapplication process was just as easy, and we feel confident that this inexpensive wallpaper is durable enough to give you years of use. Product Details:
Form: RollMaterial: VinylSize: 227 x 18 inchesCoverage: 28.3 square feetSamples Available: No
Who it isn’t for: People who don’t want a bold or geometric pattern. This peel-and-stick wallpaper was made for the beginner DIYer. Its ability to be repositioned during application is a huge help when you’re trying to line up the pattern or if you make any mistakes. Plus, the back of the paper has gridlines to help you cut and align the wallpaper, which is especially helpful considering the intricate pattern of the design. Our testers found this wallpaper to cut easily with a utility knife, and what minimal bubbling there was came out with the use of a squeegee. During removal, the wallpaper peeled back from the wall very easily, without removing any paint or drywall or leaving behind tacky residue. And it remained just as easy to apply and respostition as it was during the initial application. The vinyl is scratch-resistant and easy to clean, and comes in three different roll sizes. Overall, its affordability, various size options, and easy application and removal make it a great choice for the renter or home project newbie who wants to add a bold accent wall to their space. Product Details:
Form: RollMaterial: VinylSize: 118 x 17.7 inches, 197 x 17.7 inches, and 393 x 17.7 inchesCoverage: 14.5 square feet, 24.3 square feet, and 48.2 square feetSamples Available: No
Who it isn’t for: People who want to wallpaper a large space without spending a lot. This citrus-themed wallpaper is a modern take on the iconic fruit-themed wallpaper in your grandma’s kitchen. It’s available in six different color schemes and is perfect for a kitchen, laundry room, or anywhere you want to add a bold pop of color. The backing pulled away very easily during our initial application, and the paper was easy to reposition along the way. Made from 100 percent eco-friendly paper, this is the only wallpaper on our list made from paper-based materials. It has a sophisticated matte finish and the bright colors show up beautifully—a major advantage of paper. Plus, it’s very thick, which makes it easy to apply and helps to cover imperfections on the wall. However, our testers did have some difficulties cutting around the outlet cover due to the thickness of the paper. Finally, removal and reapplication was just as easy as the initial application, and there was no stretching or tearing. On the downside, this paper is very pricey given the amount of coverage you get, and you’ll likely need to purchase multiple panels to cover a substantial amount of wall space. We recommend purchasing a sample first, given the price and the fact that the panels are made-to-order, and therefore nonrefundable. Product Details:
Form: PanelMaterial: PaperSize: 53 x 26.3 inchesCoverage: 9.4 square feetSamples Available: Yes
Who it isn’t for: People with textured walls. Removable wallpaper is ideal for renters or DIY-inclined homeowners because it’s a low commitment way to add color and texture to your space without damaging your walls (and without losing your security deposit when it comes time to move out!). This wallpaper is particularly well suited for renters or DIYers because it can be saved and reused in different rooms, giving your space a fresh feel whenever you want it. Our testers describe this wallpaper as easy to cut, peel, and apply. It sticks to the wall while still allowing for adjustments, and it’s easy to smooth out any bubbles or wrinkles. The thick vinyl feels durable and does not pull or tear as you adjust. We had no issue peeling it away from the wall to remove it, too: “The sheet pulled off the wall with ease and the wall looked perfect once the paper was removed,” says one tester. “The wallpaper stayed fully intact with no tearing and could be saved for future use.” The simple striped design is easy to line up, and is available in both black stripes and beige stripes. The finish is smooth; however, we found it did highlight any bumps or texture in the wall, particularly on the white portions of the wallpaper, but this is only noticeable from up close. Product Details:
Form: RollMaterial: VinylSize: 198 x 20.5 inchesCoverage: 28.2 square feetSamples Available: No
Who it isn’t for: People who want to wallpaper a small accent wall. The Anewall Modern Marble Peel & Stick Wallpaper comes pre-cut into six large panels, totaling more than 100 square feet of wall coverage. Our testers found the application process to be seamless: The PVC-free vinyl glided down the wall with ease and accumulated very few air bubbles. Plus, the marble pattern is not repeating, so lining it up isn’t an issue. We found it simple to readjust this wallpaper during application without any tearing or stretching, and the pre-cut panels cut down on the length of the application process. When it came time to remove this wallpaper, it peeled away from the wall without leaving behind any damage or residue. However, it was a little staticky and wanted to stick to itself, which made reapplying it a bit of a challenge. The marble pattern adds a touch of elegance to any space, and samples are available so you can get a feel for what it will look like in your space before committing. And if your wall is larger than the standard size, you can contact Anewall to place a custom order. Product Details:
Form: PanelsMaterial: PVC-free vinylSize: 108 x 141 inches (six 108- x 23.50-inch panels)Coverage: 106 square feetSamples Available: Yes
Who it isn’t for: People who don’t want a busy design that requires precision to line up. The modern, abstract design of this painterly-style wallpaper will add depth to your walls, while complementing most decor styles (but samples are available if you want to test it out first). We found that working in smaller sections is the key to applying this wallpaper, because it’s on the thinner side of those we tested. However, it was easy to smooth out any wrinkles or bubbles. The flipside of the busy design is that it can be a little difficult to line up, because there are so many areas to match up, so having a helper will make the process much easier. During removal, the wallpaper peeled away from the wall without tearing or leaving behind any residue. Unfortunately, it seemed to be less adhesive on the second application and more prone to wrinkling, so keep this in mind if you plan to reuse your wallpaper in the future. On the whole, though, this wallpaper has a beautiful, highly saturated design and covers a large wall space, but it wasn’t the most resilient of those we tested. Product Details:
Form: RollMaterial: VinylSize: 216 x 20.5 inchesCoverage: 30.8 square feetSamples Available: Yes
Who it isn’t for: People who don’t want a lot of color in their wallpaper. Our testers were blown away with the flawless application of this wallpaper: “Even someone without experience could tackle a wallpaper project with this product and have it look like a professional application,” says one tester. The semi-matte, non-woven material is very thick (which is great for covering any imperfections on the wall) and easy to apply—what few bubbles there were could be smoothed out by hand, no tools necessary. Plus, it can be cleaned with a damp cloth or sponge. The intricate pattern does require you to line it up precisely, so it’s a good thing this wallpaper is exceptionally easy to reposition without sticking to itself or the wall until you’re ready to smooth it down. When it came time to remove the wallpaper, our testers found it to pull off flawlessly without leaving behind any residue. But this wallpaper really stands out for its timeless, highly-saturated floral design that’s inspired by French palace gardens and available in three different color schemes, including black, navy, and white. Product Details:
Form: RollMaterial: Non-wovenSize: 240 x 27 inchesCoverage: 45 square feetSamples Available: Yes
Who it isn’t for: People who want to be able to reuse their wallpaper in another room. A chic, playful design, like that of this bird-themed wallpaper, can completely transform a room, and the neutral color scheme will coordinate with any existing color palette. During our testing, this wallpaper applied easily, with very few bubbles, all of which were easy to smooth out. Plus, it repositioned beautifully without tearing or pulling, laying back down over and over again without losing its stickiness. However, we wouldn’t recommend attempting to reuse it in another room, because our testers found it to be a bit difficult to work with and more prone to bubbling after removing the entire panel and reapplying it. “I am already trying to figure out the next room in my home to use this wallpaper in,” says one tester. “I would feel confident trying to work with this paper again due to its durability and ease of use. But I would try to get it right the first time to avoid having to fully remove a panel and reposition it.” Product Details:
Form: RollMaterial: VinylSize: 198 x 20.5 inchesCoverage: 28 square feetSamples Available: No
Who it isn’t for: People who need to cut around lots of outlets or windows. This high-quality wallpaper is made from woven polyester, which gives it a slightly textured, rough finish. It comes in three different highly saturated pastels, each with a modern floral design, as well as three different size options. We found the paper to be easy to work with, particularly because the backing is slightly larger than the actual wallpaper, making it easy to peel off as you go. However, because of the weave of the fabric, it can be a little difficult to cut around outlets or windows without leaving behind visible strings, although a sharper tool can help achieve a smoother cut (our testers were only allowed utility knives). The ultra-strong adhesive had a tendency to stick to itself when we attempted to remove and reapply this wallpaper, so having a second person might be useful to avoid this issue. But the paper removed cleanly from the wall without any damage or lingering residue, and was just as easy to apply the second time once we were able to keep it from sticking to itself. Product Details:
Form: RollMaterial: PVC-free poly-woven fabricSize: 48 x 24 inches, 96 x 24 inches, and 144 x 24 inchesCoverage: 8, 16, and 24 square feetSamples Available: Yes
Who it isn’t for: People who want gridlines to aid in cutting and lining up wallpaper. We were very impressed with the quality of this wallpaper given the price and coverage it provides. The olive branch pattern comes in three different shades—charcoal, olive, and teal—all of which are highly saturated and printed on smooth, non-woven wallpaper. Our testers found the wallpaper to apply smoothly, although it did have the occasional wrinkle, most of which could be smoothed out. We did struggle to apply it around the outlet cover without tearing, and recommend removing the outlet cover prior to applying the wallpaper. In terms of removal, the paper pulled away from the wall very easily without damaging it or leaving behind any residue. Plus, it didn’t stick to itself when we reapplied it. We do wish it featured gridlines, but our testers still managed to fare well without them. Product Details:
Form: RollMaterial: Non-wovenSize: 240 x 20.5 inchesCoverage: 34 square feetSamples Available: Yes
For a more budget-friendly pick, we like the MelunMer Geometric Wallpaper because it’s easy to reposition during application in case you make a mistake.
Our Testing Process
Our testers put 28 removable wallpapers to the test in our Lab. Each wallpaper was applied by one tester, working alone, with only a step ladder, squeegee, utility knife, and tape measure available for use. For the initial application, testers applied two vertical panels or sections on a piece of drywall—all drywall sections measured 8 x 4 feet with an outlet cover placed somewhere on the wall. The sections were also smooth and painted a few weeks in advance of the test with a white satin or semi-gloss paint. Our testers evaluated the ease of application based on how easy it was to handle the wallpaper, remove the backing, reposition the panel, smooth out any bubbles, line up the pattern, and cut the paper. After applying the wallpaper, testers assessed the quality and consistency of the wallpaper design, taking note of any imperfections in the printing, the vibrancy of the colors, the texture, the feel, and the overall appearance. After 15 minutes, testers removed the wallpaper, starting from a corner and slowly pulling the paper away from drywall. Our testers recorded the ease of removal based on how easily the wallpaper came off, whether it was stretched or misshapen after removal, whether it damaged the paint or drywall, and whether it left behind any tackiness. Testers then reapplied the wallpaper using the same process as they did for the initial application, noting whether there was any difference in the wallpaper during the second application. Finally, our testers received the price of each wallpaper, and were asked to evaluate its overall value, taking into account its performance and materials. Currently, we are keeping the wallpapered drywall sections in storage and we will evaluate the panels for any signs of imperfection or adhesive failure after three months and again after six months.
How to Shop for Removable Wallpaper Like a Pro
Rolls vs. Panels
Removable wallpaper comes in two different forms: Rolls and panels. Rolls of wallpaper are longer and will need to be trimmed to length for installation. Panels of wallpaper are vertical sections that are meant to be hung side by side. Although, it can be easy to confuse the two because panels often come packaged rolled up in tubes. One or two panels can be great for a small accent wall, while rolls are printed in large quantities.
Material
Vinyl: Most removable wallpaper is made from vinyl, which has many advantages: It’s affordable, scrubbable, moisture-resistant, and easy to apply and remove. However, it’s made with a type of plastic called polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and is therefore not the most environmentally-friendly option (although you can find PVC-free vinyl). In terms of aesthetics, some vinyl wallpaper can have a less sophisticated feel than fabric or paper-based wallpaper: “Some vinyl-based removable wallpaper can look thin and cheap making a space feel more youthful and less grown-up,” says Wood. Whether or not you choose vinyl will really come down to your personal preferences and environmental concerns. It makes a great option for renters because it’s easy to remove and budget-friendly, and it’s ideal for high-moisture environments like the bathroom. Plus, its easy-to-clean surface makes it a lifesaver for parents or pet owners. Non-woven wallpaper: You may find some wallpapers labeled “non-woven.” This refers to a type of fibrous material made from synthetic and natural fibers. It provides more durability than paper-based materials, yet can also bring peace of mind to those with concerns about the potential environmental impacts of vinyl. Woven polyester: Made from a 100 percent polyester fabric with a woven texture, woven polyester (aka poly-woven fabric) is another common material used to make removable wallpaper. Like vinyl, it’s made from plastic. Some people may prefer the matte finish and feel of woven wallpaper. Plus, it’s easy to care for—simply wipe it down with a damp cloth or dust to clean. Avoid strong cleaners, as these can lift the color from the fabric. Paper or paper-based: It’s hard to beat the classic look of paper wallpaper, although it has largely been surpassed by vinyl when it comes to removable wallpaper, as it’s far less durable. Colors and patterns show up beautifully on paper, and it can have a more grown-up look to it than vinyl. A thicker paper can be easier to apply and can help to conceal small imperfections.
Size
This may go without saying, but be sure to measure your walls to determine how much wallpaper you need (learn how to measure for wallpaper below). If your wall is larger than the standard size, some companies offer custom-sized panels or rolls.
Design
Removable wallpaper is a low-commitment way to add a pop of color to your space: “I love bold patterns that really pop because if you’re going to put in the time and effort, you might as well make a statement!” says Wood. “Take risks and go bold because you can always change your mind! If you choose an accent wall, you might have fun painting the other walls in the space to match a color in the paper, or if you wallpaper the entire room, you could match the trim to a fun color in the paper.”
Samples
Just as you would sample a paint color before painting your walls, you may also want to sample wallpaper before applying it. A sample can help you see whether the wallpaper appears true to the colors online, the texture of the paper, and the size of the design elements. Not all companies offer samples of removable wallpaper, so take this into consideration when choosing.
More Removable Wallpaper to Consider
Tempaper Pastel Palm Wallpaper: We love the subtle tropical design of this wallpaper, especially for a coastal home. However, it was on the thinner side and seemed more prone to wrinkling than other wallpapers we tested. Betapet Botanical Greenery Peel & Stick Wallpaper: Plant-enthusiasts will love the gorgeous botanical design of this wallpaper. It has a luxe feel and is highly saturated with vibrant colors. However, it didn’t go on quite as smoothly after removing it from the wall, so we don’t recommend it if you plan to reuse it in the future. Spoonflower Dandelions Drawn in Nine Ways Wallpaper: This wallpaper comes with a small tab at the top of the panel to help you peel off the backing as you work—a really unique and functional feature for anyone new to removable wallpaper.
Questions You Might Ask
How do you measure how much wallpaper you need?
To measure how much wallpaper you need to buy, start by calculating the square footage of the space you’d like to cover by multiplying the length of the wall by the height of the wall. “If you’re doing multiple walls or the ceiling, calculate each one separately and then add each wall together for your total square footage,” says Wood. “Then you’ll take the total square footage and divide it by the square footage each roll covers. This will tell you how many rolls you need to order.” Wood also suggests adding an additional 20 percent to your total square footage to ensure you have enough to match up patterns or make mistakes.
How do you apply removable wallpaper?
As the name would suggest, peel-and-stick wallpaper is very easy to apply, and because it’s removable, you can easily adjust it as you go. Prior to application, prep the surface by wiping any dust or dirt off with a damp cloth and allow the walls to fully dry. Next, line up the wallpaper panel with the top of the wall, remove the wallpaper from the backing in small sections (to avoid it sticking to itself), stick it to the wall, and smooth it out using a smoothing tool (such as a squeegee). Of course, you should also review the manufacturer’s hanging instructions prior to application. “I like to lay out the paper on the wall, line up the patterns, and cut each piece before exposing the glue,” says Wood. “Be sure you have a ladder, and work from top to bottom as you stick the paper to the wall. A squeegee and a level are also helpful, allowing you to remove bubbles as you go and ensure the print is level. Also, a partner to help makes a huge difference!” Be sure to take note of the finishes of your walls, too. Wallpaper may have trouble sticking to textured walls. And don’t apply wallpaper to freshly painted walls, as this can make them hard to remove and damage the paint—Wood suggests waiting at least two to three weeks after painting to apply removable wallpaper.
How do you remove removable wallpaper?
When you’re ready to remove your wallpaper, simply start at the corner of the panel and peel it off slowly and steadily—take your time to avoid damage. If you have trouble, Wood suggests using heat to help loosen the adhesive, such as that from an electric steamer or hair dryer.
Take Our Word for It
This article was written by Melanie Fincher, associate commerce editor for Real Simple with nearly three years of experience writing product reviews and lifestyle content. To compile this list, we tested 28 removable wallpapers in our Lab and evaluated them based on their ease of application, design, ease of removal, and overall value. For expert tips on buying and using removable wallpaper, we spoke to Alessandra Wood, Ph.D, design historian and vice president of style at the online interior design service Modsy.
What Is Real Simple Selects?
Next to each product on this list, you may have noticed a Real Simple Selects seal of approval. Any product appearing alongside that seal has been vetted by our team—put through tests and graded on its performance to earn a spot on our list. Although we buy most of the products we test, sometimes we do get samples from companies if purchasing a product ourselves isn’t an option. If that’s the case, we test the product just like we test anything we buy, but we also disclose that we received it for free to be as transparent with you as possible. Love our recommendations? Check out more products that have earned the Real Simple Selects, from humidifiers to cordless vacuums.
