As one of the most frequently used rooms in a home, bathrooms deserve some extra attention when it comes to decor. While tile or paint might be the obvious choices, small bathroom wallpaper is a daring alternative that can instantly refresh and personalize a powder room or en-suite. Specially designed to withstand steamy conditions, it’s perfect for creating a feature wall that packs a punch, and can be used for entire walls or even a whole cloakroom.

When shopping for the right small bathroom wallpaper, consider its finish and texture as well as pattern. For example, matte finishes are a good choice for bathrooms, as they’re easy to clean and don’t show water spots or other imperfections as readily. You can also find options with a soft sheen, which adds visual interest and is slightly easier to wipe down than a flat wallpaper. Graham & Brown Beadboard Pre-Pasted Wallpaper, for instance, is reminiscent of vertical shiplap or wainscotting and has a subtle sheen. Other options are more tactile and can add a sense of depth to your space, such as this gorgeous floral patterned Grasscloth wallpaper from Serena & Lily.

Another important consideration is the adhesive type. Some non-woven wallpapers have a self-stick backing, like this Sarah Jessica Parker Grosgrain Stripe Wallpaper, making them simple to apply. Others require a traditional paste (like this NextWall Starburst Geo Wallpaper), which is more time-consuming but can create a stronger bond with your walls. You can also buy woven, fabric-like wallpapers that have a natural texture, such as this Cole and Son Evelyn Wallpaper, which is perfect for adding a bit of drama to a powder bath or even covering an entire room.

If you’re a little hesitant to put up a bold bathroom wallpaper, start by testing your nerves with a smaller space or a single accent wall. Then, when you’re ready to take the plunge, you can choose a larger scale patterned wallpaper with confidence. If you’re concerned about water damage, consider adding a clear acrylic or perspex splashback in your bathtub area to protect the paper from accidental spills.

Bold patterns can work wonders in long, slimline rooms, as they help to throw the eye away from the ceiling and make the room feel bigger and more expansive. This bathroom’s fanciful cherry-blossom-inspired wallpaper adds a touch of luxury and coordinates beautifully with the brass hardware and red vanity.

Alternatively, if you’re working with a small powder room or a cloakroom, try mixing things up by choosing a geometric design that makes the most of your space. The zigzag motif of this Paprika Wallpaper by Hello Circus adds an element of fun to a compact room, while also matching the color of the floor for a cohesive look.

Regardless of the type of wallpaper you choose, it’s best to match the color of your flooring to it to prevent the room from looking too busy. Similarly, choosing an all-white wallpaper can help a cramped bathroom feel more spacious and airy.