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Peel-and-stick vs non-woven wallpaper: what to choose and why
Planning to redecorate your home with new wallpaper but not sure whether to go for peel-and-stick or non-woven wallpaper? Peel-and-stick wallpaper often looks like the perfect quick fix: easy to apply, removable, and “a renter’s dream.” But the reality isn’t always so smooth.
In this article, we compare the problems and plusses of peel-and-stick wallpaper along with real user experiences. So that you can make a smarter choice!
Why do people love peel-and-stick wallpaper?
Peel-and-stick wallpaper is popular because it seems hassle-free:
- No paste needed
- Great for temporary decoration
- Easy to remove (in theory)
But “easy” doesn’t always mean “problem-free.” Real users on Reddit and other review sites have shared stories of disappointment and frustration.
1. It Won’t stick properly
“I installed peel-and-stick in the kitchen, and within a week the panels started peeling off from the corners. The wall was smooth, but the hot water pipes nearby caused it to loosen.”
— Reddit /r/DIY
Humidity and heat — even European summers — can make the adhesive fail.
2. Bubbles and wrinkles on large surfaces
“I put it up in the living room, and it was a disaster. The wallpaper wrinkled badly, and it was impossible to smooth out.”
— Reddit /r/HomeDecorating
3. It can damage the wall when removed
“When I peeled it off, it took the paint and even some plaster with it.”
— Reddit /r/interiordecorating
4. It peels over time
“It was fine at first, but when the heating season began, the edges started lifting. Eventually the whole thing fell off.”
— Reddit /r/HomeImprovement
5. Disappointing print quality from cheap sources
“Ordered a gorgeous pattern from Amazon. It looked amazing online, but the actual print was blurry and the colors were way off.”
Non-woven wallpaper: the professional choice
At Baubauwall, all our wallpapers are printed on premium non-woven material. Why is it better?
Pros:
- Paste goes on the wall, not on the wallpaper strip
- Easy to reposition and align during installation
- Doesn’t wrinkle, stretch, or shine oddly
- Breathable and moisture-friendly
- Printed with Greenguard-certified, non-toxic inks
- Safe for all rooms, including bedrooms and kids’ rooms
Cons?
- Requires a little more prep than peel-and-stick
- …and that’s about it.
Comparison at a glance
| Peel-and-stick wallpaper | Non-woven wallpaper | |
|---|---|---|
| Installation | Easy at first, then tricky | Needs paste, but stable |
| Repositioning | Not possible | Can adjust during install |
| Durability | Often temporary | Lasts for years |
| Wall damage Risk | Yes | No (if removed properly) |
| Print quality | Varies by manufacturer | Premium (at Baubauwall) |
If you’re after a long-lasting, beautiful, and safe wallpaper solution, non-woven is the way to go.
All Baubauwall wallpapers are made to measure. It means that the wallpaper is tailored to your exact wall size, printed on eco-friendly materials, and delivered in pre-cut, numbered panels for easy installation.
Peek into our customer wallpaper gallery and steal few ideas for your own decor ideas!
Because your wall deserves more than just a sticker!
