Which Wallpaper Material Is Best? A Complete Guide to Styles, Costs & Durability

If you’ve been asking yourself “which wallpaper material is best?” the short answer is: vinyl wallpaper is the most versatile and durable option, but the right choice depends on your space, budget, and lifestyle.

Wallpaper has become one of the easiest ways to instantly transform a home. Unlike paint, it offers texture, depth, and personality. But choosing wallpaper isn’t just about patterns — the material you select plays a huge role in how long it lasts, how easy it is to clean, and whether it suits your room.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore every major wallpaper material, compare costs, weigh pros and cons, and give you practical tips for picking the best option.

Why Wallpaper Material Matters

It’s tempting to choose wallpaper based on design alone, but here’s why the material matters just as much:

• Durability: Some wallpapers peel after a year, while others last over a decade.
• Maintenance: Washable materials save time if you have kids or pets.
• Installation: Some types are DIY-friendly, while others need a professional.
• Room Suitability: Kitchens and bathrooms demand moisture-resistant wallpaper, while bedrooms benefit from breathable options.

Simply put, the right material can save you money, time, and frustration.

Common Types of Wallpaper Materials

Below are the most common wallpaper materials you’ll encounter, along with their strengths and weaknesses.

Vinyl Wallpaper

Vinyl is the all-time favorite for homeowners because it’s tough, affordable, and low-maintenance. It’s made with a PVC coating that protects it against moisture and stains.

Pros & Cons of Vinyl Wallpaper

Pros	Cons
Washable and stain-resistant	Can look synthetic if low quality
Very durable, lasts years	Not breathable (may trap moisture)
Works in humid areas like kitchens & bathrooms	Some cheap versions peel easily
Affordable and widely available	Can fade in direct sunlight

Best for: Kitchens, bathrooms, hallways, and other high-traffic areas.

Non-Woven Wallpaper

Non-woven wallpaper is made from a mix of natural and synthetic fibers. It’s breathable, meaning it prevents mold growth — a big advantage over vinyl.

Pros & Cons of Non-Woven Wallpaper

Pros	Cons
Easy to install (paste-the-wall method)	Pricier than vinyl
Tear-resistant, durable	Not ideal for humid bathrooms
Washable surface	Limited design depth compared to fabric
Removes cleanly without damage	May require lining paper for dark walls

Best for: Living rooms, bedrooms, and offices.

Fabric Wallpaper

Fabric wallpaper is all about luxury and texture. It’s made from silk, linen, or cotton, offering a rich look you won’t get from synthetic materials.

Pros & Cons of Fabric Wallpaper

Pros	Cons
Elegant, high-end finish	Expensive compared to other types
Adds warmth and texture	Absorbs stains easily
Long-lasting with proper care	Requires professional installation
Unique, luxurious designs	Not washable

Best for: Accent walls, formal dining rooms, or luxury bedrooms.

Grasscloth Wallpaper

Grasscloth is handcrafted from natural fibers like jute, hemp, or arrowroot. No two rolls are the same, giving walls a unique, organic aesthetic.

Pros & Cons of Grasscloth Wallpaper

Pros	Cons
Eco-friendly and sustainable	Very expensive
Beautiful, natural look	Prone to stains and fading
Adds texture and depth	Seams are visible
Unique patterns (no repeats)	Hard to clean (not washable)

Best for: Statement walls, nature-inspired interiors, or low-traffic spaces.

Peel & Stick Wallpaper

Peel & stick has grown massively in popularity, especially among renters. It comes with a self-adhesive backing, so no glue is required.

Pros & Cons of Peel & Stick Wallpaper

Pros	Cons
Easy DIY installation	Shorter lifespan than vinyl
Affordable and renter-friendly	May bubble if not applied carefully
Huge variety of designs online	Not as durable for high-traffic areas
Removable without damage	Edges may peel over time

Best for: Apartments, kids’ rooms, or anyone who loves to redecorate often.

Which Wallpaper Material Is Best for Each Room?

• Living Room: Non-Woven or Fabric for a stylish, breathable finish.
• Bedroom: Non-Woven for easy upkeep or Grasscloth for a natural, cozy vibe.
• Kitchen: Vinyl, thanks to its grease and moisture resistance.
• Bathroom: Vinyl, since it withstands humidity better than any other type.
• Rental Apartment: Peel & Stick, so you can change designs without losing your deposit.

Cost Comparison Table

Material	Average Price (per roll)	Best Feature	Best Room Use
Vinyl	$20–$60	Durable, washable	Kitchen, bathroom
Non-Woven	$30–$70	Easy install/remove	Living room, bedroom
Fabric	$50–$150	Luxury texture	Accent wall, formal space
Grasscloth	$70–$200	Natural, eco-friendly	Statement walls
Peel & Stick	$15–$40	Renter-friendly	Apartments, kids’ rooms

Tips for Choosing the Right Wallpaper Material

• Think about lifestyle needs. Kids and pets? Vinyl is your friend. Renters? Peel & stick is the safest bet.
• Balance function with style. Grasscloth looks amazing, but don’t use it in kitchens where stains are unavoidable.
• Check wall condition. Uneven walls show flaws under thin wallpaper; go for non-woven or textured options.
• Test samples before committing. A small swatch can look very different once it covers an entire wall.
• Don’t forget lighting. Fabric and grasscloth shine in natural light, while vinyl works well in dim hallways.

Final Thoughts

So, which wallpaper material is best? The real answer is: it depends on your priorities.

• Best All-Rounder: Vinyl — durable, affordable, and moisture-resistant.
• Best for Bedrooms: Non-Woven — breathable and easy to remove.
• Best for Luxury: Fabric — timeless elegance, but high-maintenance.
• Best for Natural Aesthetic: Grasscloth — unique and eco-friendly, but costly.
• Best for Renters: Peel & Stick — stylish without commitment.

Before buying, consider your room’s conditions, your lifestyle, and your budget. With the right material, wallpaper can elevate your space for years to come.

👉 Want to know how much wallpaper you’ll need? Try our Wall Finishing Calculator to plan your project with precision.

For a deeper dive into the technical aspects of wallpaper, check out The Spruce’s Wallpaper Material Guide.