By Burke & Crew Paintwrights
Serving Gloucester and the surrounding Cape Ann communities for over 10 years.
Kitchens are one of the most used spaces in a home, which makes homeowners understandably cautious about finishes. Paint has long been the default choice, but many people now ask the same question:
Is wallpaper actually a good choice for kitchens?
The short answer is yes—when the right materials are used and installed properly. This article explains how modern kitchen wallcoverings differ from older wallpaper, where wallpaper works best in kitchens, and why professional installation matters.
Why Wallpaper Used to Be a Bad Idea for Kitchens
Wallpaper earned a bad reputation in kitchens decades ago for good reason.
Older wallpaper materials were:
- Paper-based and absorbent
- Difficult to clean
- Prone to peeling in humid environments
- Installed without moisture-resistant adhesives
In kitchens, where heat, moisture, and frequent cleaning are common, those materials often failed.
Modern wallpaper is a different category altogether.
How Modern Wallpaper Has Changed
Today’s wallpaper for kitchen applications often use materials designed specifically for durability and cleanability.
Modern quality wall-coverings may include:
- Vinyl or vinyl-coated surfaces
- Non-woven backings
- Washable and scrub-resistant finishes
- Improved adhesives designed for higher humidity
When selected and installed correctly, these materials perform well in kitchen environments.
Where Wallpaper Works Best in a Kitchen
Wallpaper doesn’t need to be used on every wall to make an impact.
Common kitchen applications include:
- Accent walls
- Breakfast nooks
- Dining areas connected to kitchens
- Walls away from sinks, stoves, and heavy splatter zones
Using wallpaper strategically allows homeowners to add texture and personality without exposing it to unnecessary wear.
Wallpaper vs Paint in Kitchens
Paint remains a practical option, particularly near cooking and prep areas.
Wallpaper offers advantages where design impact matters most:
- Texture and depth paint can’t replicate
- Pattern and visual interest
- A finished, custom look
Many homeowners choose a combination approach, using paint where durability is critical and wallpaper where aesthetics take priority.
The Role of Professional Installation in Kitchens
Kitchens demand precision.
Professional wallpaper installation services ensure:
- Proper surface preparation
- Correct adhesive selection
- Secure seams that resist lifting
- Clean transitions around cabinets, trim, and fixtures
In older Gloucester and Cape Ann homes, walls may not be perfectly flat or square. These conditions make professional installation especially important for long-term results.
Cleaning and Maintenance Considerations
Modern kitchen wallpaper is designed to be maintained.
Depending on the material:
- Light cleaning with a damp cloth may be possible
- Some vinyl wallpapers allow gentle scrubbing
- Harsh chemicals should still be avoided
Choosing the right product—and understanding its care requirements—is key to longevity.
Frequently Asked Questions
In some cases, yes—but it depends on the level of texture and the type of wallpaper being used. Heavily textured walls often require smoothing or skim coating before wallpaper installation to ensure proper adhesion and a clean finished look.
Yes. Professional wallpaper removal helps protect the underlying wall surface and reduces the risk of damage, especially in older homes with plaster or previously repaired walls.
If you’re using a Lifetime plan, the charges will be taken only once, and you’ll be able to use the product from the subscription and receive all the updates without any additional payments or charges taken.
Note: *Prices exclude VAT/Taxes
Wallpaper quantities are typically determined by measuring the walls and accounting for pattern repeats and waste. Many homeowners choose to consult with a professional before purchasing to ensure accurate ordering.
Wallpaper quantities are typically determined by measuring the walls and accounting for pattern repeats and waste. Many homeowners choose to consult with a professional before purchasing to ensure accurate ordering.
Installation time varies based on room size, wall condition, and the complexity of the wallpaper. Smaller rooms may take a day, while larger or more detailed installations can take longer.
Burke & Crew Paintwrights serves Gloucester and the surrounding Cape Ann communities. Know More