Designing a child’s room is an opportunity to blend creativity, personality, and practicality into one cohesive space. One of the most effective and affordable ways to transform a child’s room is through wallpaper. With countless styles, textures, and colors available, wallpaper offers a playful and imaginative backdrop that encourages creativity while complementing your child’s interests and needs.
In this guide, we’ll explore expert tips and fun ideas for using wallpaper in kids’ rooms, offering everything from soothing themes for nurseries to interactive designs for toddlers and bold patterns for older children. Whether you’re a parent, interior designer, or DIY enthusiast, you’ll find everything you need to know right here.
Why Wallpaper is Perfect for Kids’ Rooms
When it comes to decorating children’s spaces, flexibility and fun are key. Wallpaper offers several benefits over traditional paint:
- Endless Variety: From wall murals of outer space to jungle adventures and fairy-tale castles, wallpapers offer thematic customization that’s hard to replicate with paint.
- Easy Updates: Peelable wallpaper makes it easy to update the room as your child grows and their preferences change.
- Durability: High-quality vinyl wallpaper is waterproof and easy to clean, making it ideal for young kids who love to draw, splash, or make messes.
According to Better Homes & Gardens, wallpapers for children’s rooms are trending due to their combination of function and creativity, with textured and interactive wallpapers seeing a rise in popularity in 2025.
Top Wallpaper Styles for Kids’ Rooms
1. Wall Murals that Spark Imagination
Wall murals are a growing trend for children’s spaces, creating immersive experiences that can inspire play and learning. Think of:
- Underwater oceanscapes
- Dinosaur kingdoms
- Outer space exploration
- Enchanted forests
Murals can cover one accent wall or the entire room for a more dramatic effect. They’re perfect for storytelling and bedtime adventures.
2. Interactive and Educational Wallpapers
For younger children, especially preschoolers and toddlers, interactive wallpaper designs can promote learning. Look for options that include:
- Alphabet and number patterns
- World maps
- Animal facts
- Height measurement trees
This type of design not only makes the room engaging but also supports early learning and development.
3. Textured and Metallic Accents
Introduce a touch of sophistication with textured metallic wallpaper that features soft shimmer or embossed details. These are ideal for transitional spaces where a child may be moving from toddler to early school age.
Popular textures include:
- Stars and moons with metallic silver
- Soft florals with a velvet feel
- Embossed patterns that can be painted over time
Themes by Age Group
Babies and Toddlers
When decorating for babies and toddlers, opt for calming, nature-inspired prints like clouds, animals, or woodland creatures. Soft pastels and neutral tones work best to create a peaceful environment.
Top Picks:
- Wallpaper for small rooms with light colors to make the space feel bigger
- Peelable wallpaper that allows for easy updates
- Wall murals with soft watercolor designs
Preschool to Early Elementary
As children start developing their interests, the room can reflect their favorite themes—princesses, race cars, superheroes, or animals. Use vibrant, bold wallpapers and mix in chalkboard or magnetic wallpaper for added functionality.
Top Picks:
- Kids wallpaper with interactive elements
- Peel-and-stick wall decals for easy customization
- Wallpaper with educational content
Tweens and Preteens
Older kids appreciate more mature designs. Go for geometric patterns, graphic prints, or even a vintage floral wallpaper with a modern twist. Allow them to have a say in the design—it helps them feel ownership over their space.
Top Picks:
- 3D effect wallpaper for a modern aesthetic
- Neutral base wallpaper with bold furniture
- Vinyl wallpaper waterproof for easy cleaning
Choosing the Right Wallpaper: Expert Tips
- Consider Longevity: Choose styles that can grow with your child or that can be easily changed. Peelable wallpaper is ideal for this reason.
- Think About Light: In small or dark rooms, opt for light-colored or neutral wallpaper to reflect light and make the space appear larger.
- Check for Safety: Make sure wallpapers are non-toxic and VOC-free, especially for nurseries and toddler rooms.
- Balance Playfulness with Calm: While it’s fun to go bold, avoid overly busy patterns on all four walls. Use playful wallpaper as an accent and balance with softer elements.
DIY Wallpaper Tips for Parents
Installing wallpaper can be a fun weekend project. Here are some practical tips:
- Measure twice, cut once: Always allow for extra wallpaper in case of mistakes.
- Use a level to ensure your wallpaper goes up straight, especially for patterns that require matching.
- Start with a feature wall: This simplifies the process and still delivers a bold impact.
For peel-and-stick wallpapers, make sure the wall is clean and dry, and smooth out any bubbles with a wallpaper smoother or credit card.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Options
Environmentally conscious parents are increasingly seeking out eco-friendly wallpaper materials. Look for:
- Recycled paper bases
- Soy-based or water-based inks
- PVC-free vinyl alternatives
These wallpapers not only protect the environment but also ensure better indoor air quality for your child’s health.
Current Trends in 2025
Interior designers are leaning towards:
- Scandinavian minimalism: Soft colors, animal silhouettes, and neutral palettes.
- Retro revival: Think vintage floral wallpaper or 70s-inspired stripes in fun colors.
- Nature-based murals: From forests to savannah scenes, bringing the outdoors inside is big this year.
- Custom wallpaper printing: Parents are now ordering custom designs based on children’s names, artwork, or favorite storybooks.
Decorating your child’s room with wallpaper is more than just a design choice—it’s a way to create a space where imagination, comfort, and personality thrive. With today’s endless options, you can find wallpaper that not only looks great but also supports your child’s learning and development. Whether you choose a whimsical wall mural, a textured metallic wallpaper, or a simple peelable option, you’re investing in an environment where your child can feel happy, safe, and inspired.
Choose wisely, involve your child in the process, and don’t be afraid to have fun with it—because their room should be as unique and special as they are.
Read More: Top 7 Wallpaper Patterns for a Chic Look
