How to Achieve a Moisture-Resistant Finish When Painting Over Wallpaper

Painting over wallpaper can be a smart and cost-effective solution—especially in bathrooms and kitchens where removing wallpaper can be time-consuming and risky. However, these moisture-prone areas require extra care. Without the right preparation, paint can peel, bubble, or trap moisture behind the wallpaper, leading to long-term damage.

If you’re planning wallpaper painting in high-humidity spaces, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to achieve a durable, moisture-resistant finish that lasts.

Can You Paint Over Wallpaper in Bathrooms and Kitchens?

Yes, you can paint over wallpaper in bathrooms and kitchens—but only if the wallpaper is in good condition and the correct materials are used. These areas experience frequent exposure to steam, splashes, and humidity, which means standard painting methods may fail if moisture protection is ignored.

Painting over wallpaper works best when:

The wallpaper is firmly bonded to the wall
There are no lifting edges, bubbles, or mold
The surface is properly sealed before painting

Skipping preparation steps can result in peeling paint and trapped moisture, which may damage the wall underneath.

Step 1: Inspect and Repair the Wallpaper

Before you begin painting, inspect the wallpaper thoroughly.

What to check:

Loose seams or corners
Air bubbles or wrinkles
Water stains or mold spots

If you find loose edges, reattach them using wallpaper adhesive. Small bubbles can be sliced carefully and glued flat. Any mold or mildew must be cleaned and treated before proceeding—painting over mold will only worsen the problem.

Allow all repairs to dry completely before moving to the next step.

Step 2: Clean the Surface Thoroughly

Bathrooms and kitchens collect grease, soap residue, and moisture buildup. These contaminants can prevent paint from bonding properly.

Cleaning tips:

Use a mild detergent or sugar soap solution
Pay special attention to areas near sinks, stoves, and showers
Rinse with clean water and let the walls dry fully

A clean surface is essential for a smooth, long-lasting paint finish.

Step 3: Light Sanding for Better Adhesion

Light sanding helps the primer adhere better to the wallpaper surface.

Use fine-grit sandpaper (180–220 grit)
Sand gently to avoid damaging the wallpaper
Focus on glossy or vinyl-coated wallpaper

After sanding, wipe away dust with a damp cloth and allow the wall to dry.

Step 4: Apply a Moisture-Blocking Primer (Most Important Step)

This is the most critical step when painting over wallpaper in humid areas.

Why primer matters:

Seals the wallpaper and adhesive
Prevents moisture penetration
Blocks patterns and stains from bleeding through
Creates a paint-ready surface

Use an oil-based or shellac-based primer, as water-based primers may reactivate wallpaper glue. Apply one even coat and allow it to dry fully according to manufacturer instructions.

Skipping primer is the main reason wallpaper painting fails in bathrooms and kitchens.

Step 5: Choose the Right Paint for Moisture Resistance

Not all paints are suitable for wet areas. Selecting the right paint ensures durability and easy maintenance.

Best paint types:

Bathroom-specific paints with anti-mold properties
Satin or semi-gloss finishes (easy to clean, moisture-resistant)
High-quality acrylic or latex paints designed for humid environments

Avoid flat or matte finishes, as they absorb moisture and are harder to clean.

Step 6: Apply Paint Correctly

Apply paint using smooth, even strokes to avoid bubbles or streaks.

Painting tips:

Use a high-quality roller for large areas
Use a brush for edges and corners
Apply two thin coats instead of one thick coat
Allow proper drying time between coats

Proper drying is essential to prevent trapped moisture beneath the paint.

Step 7: Improve Ventilation for Long-Term Results

Even the best paint job can fail without good ventilation.

Use exhaust fans during and after showers
Open windows when possible
Consider installing a dehumidifier in poorly ventilated spaces

Good airflow reduces humidity levels and protects your painted walls over time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When painting over wallpaper in moisture-prone areas, avoid these common mistakes:

Skipping the primer
Painting over damaged or moldy wallpaper
Using low-quality or flat paint
Applying thick coats that trap moisture
Ignoring ventilation issues

Avoiding these errors significantly improves the lifespan of your paint finish.

Is Painting Over Wallpaper Better Than Removing It?

In many cases, yes—especially in bathrooms and kitchens where wallpaper removal can damage plaster or drywall. Painting over wallpaper saves time, reduces mess, and delivers excellent results when done correctly.

However, if the wallpaper is peeling extensively or has water damage behind it, removal may be the better option.

Professional Results Matter

Achieving a flawless, moisture-resistant finish requires experience, proper materials, and attention to detail. Professional painters understand how different surfaces react to humidity and how to protect walls for long-term durability.

Experts like Dyson Painters specialize in surface preparation and moisture-resistant painting solutions, ensuring your bathroom or kitchen walls remain fresh, clean, and damage-free for years.

Final Thoughts

Painting over wallpaper in bathrooms and kitchens is absolutely possible—and effective—when done the right way. By repairing the surface, sealing it with a moisture-blocking primer, choosing the right paint, and ensuring proper ventilation, you can enjoy a stylish and durable finish without removing wallpaper.

If you’re considering wallpaper painting for your home, following these steps will help you achieve professional-grade results that stand up to humidity and daily wear.

Dyson Painters

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