Wallpaper Materials Compared: Textured Vinyl on Non-Woven vs. Washable Wallpaper – Which to Choose?

Decorating a kids' room is full of challenges, especially when it comes to choosing the right finishing materials. The type of wallpaper plays an important role, affecting not only aesthetics but also the functionality and safety of the space. Non-woven or vinyl wallpaper can determine how easy it is to keep the room clean, how long the wallpaper will last and how safe it is for your child. In this article, we compare the two most popular types of wallpaper: textured vinyl on non-woven and washable non-woven wallpaper. Find out which material works best in a kids' room!

Non-woven or vinyl wallpaper – which type to choose for your home?

When choosing wallpaper for your interior, it's worth combining functionality with aesthetics. Non-woven or vinyl wallpaper? It's worth asking yourself, as each has its pros and cons.

Non-woven wallpaper is an excellent choice for the living room, bedroom and an older child's room. If you're planning to hang it yourself, it's also easy to apply, because the adhesive goes directly on the wall. Its ability to hide minor wall imperfections makes it ideal for rooms that call for practical solutions.

For the kitchen, bathroom or a young child's room – that's where vinyl wallpapers shine. Their moisture resistance and easy cleaning make them an excellent choice for rooms prone to dirt. In a kids' room, where walls often become a canvas for a little one's artistic experiments, traditional paper wallpapers can quickly get damaged. Vinyl wallpaper, by contrast, is more resistant to scratches and stains.

Textured vinyl on non-woven – vinyl wallpapers that will surprise you with their durability

Advantages of vinyl wallpaper

• Damage resistance: Vinyl wallpapers are extremely durable and resistant to scratches and other mechanical damage, which is especially important in a kids' room.
• Washability: The vinyl layer makes dirt easy to remove, so vinyl wallpapers are very practical.
• Sound insulation: The wallpaper's texture can help dampen sound, which helps create a quiet, peaceful space for your child.

Disadvantages of vinyl wallpaper

• Limited breathability: Vinyl wallpapers don't allow air to flow freely, which can lead to moisture problems in rooms.
• Potential wall damage: When removing vinyl wallpaper, there's a risk of damaging the plaster or drywall. Careless use of removal tools can lead to extra costs for wall repairs.

Washable non-woven wallpapers – a guide to their benefits and uses

Washable non-woven wallpapers are another solution that combines practicality and aesthetics. They're easy to hang, and their main advantage is that the surface can be cleaned without risk of damaging the wallpaper.

Advantages of washable wallpaper

• Easy application: Non-woven wallpaper is easy to hang and just as easy to remove when needed, which is convenient in kids' rooms, where decor may change often.
• Washability: Being washable, these wallpapers are ideal for a kids' room, where dirt is an everyday occurrence.
• Breathability: Non-woven fabric allows air to circulate, which prevents mold from forming.

Disadvantages of washable wallpaper

• Cost: Washable non-woven wallpapers can be more expensive than traditional paper ones. Although their price is justified by their durability and easy installation, for some users this may be a significant drawback.

How to hang vinyl wallpaper and washable non-woven?

1. Preparing the wall and choosing adhesive

Prepare the wall by removing old wallpaper, filling holes with filler and cleaning dust and grease off the surface. If needed, prime the wall to improve the wallpaper adhesive's grip.

2. Hanging the wallpaper

Measure the wall height, adding a few centimeters (an inch or two) of extra length, and cut the first strip of wallpaper. Paper wallpapers, like vinyl ones, require applying adhesive to the wallpaper, unlike non-woven wallpapers, where the adhesive goes on the wall. Use a spirit level to make sure the first strip is straight, then place the wallpaper against the wall, starting at the top. Gently press the wallpaper downward, smoothing it from the center outward to remove air bubbles.

3. Smoothing and joining

To match the pattern, cut the next strips, carefully aligning them with the pattern on the previous strip. Then repeat the process of applying adhesive and hanging the wallpaper, making sure the patterns and strips join perfectly.

When finishing, trim excess wallpaper at the floor and ceiling with a utility knife for clean edges. Finally, use a sponge or cloth to gently remove excess adhesive.

Extra tips

• Before you start, have all the necessary tools on hand, such as a utility knife, spirit level, smoothing roller and paste brush.
• Always check the manufacturer's instructions for the adhesive and the installation specifics for your type of wallpaper.

Vinyl and non-woven wallpaper – unique motifs and inspiration for a kids' room

Washable non-woven unicorn wallpaper

Perfect for adding a fairy-tale atmosphere. Vinyl wallpapers can be used on all four walls or as an accent on one of them. Unicorn wallpapers can be paired with pastel furniture, such as beds in shades of pink or light blue, and accessories in soft colors, like plush cushions and curtains. This decor creates a fairy-tale atmosphere that encourages creative play.

Washable non-woven wallpaper with little flowers

Ditsy floral wallpapers are an excellent choice for a kids' room, giving the space a cozy, cheerful character. Non-woven or vinyl wallpaper with a floral motif also goes perfectly with boho style, where you can pair it with natural materials (wood and linen). For those who want to add a touch of nostalgia, the ideal choice is vinyl wallpaper in vintage style. Floral patterns inspired by days gone by can turn a room into a little kingdom, blending perfectly with retro-style furniture.

Summary

Choosing wallpaper for a kids' room depends on many factors, such as budget, aesthetic preferences and cleaning needs. Wallpapers may look slightly different depending on the backing used, which causes subtle differences in the color of the pattern. Another difference between washable non-woven and textured wallpaper is thickness. On uneven, porous walls or walls with minor problems, textured wallpaper can help hide them. If durability and easy maintenance matter to you, textured vinyl on non-woven may be the best choice. But if you're looking for something more budget-friendly and breathable, consider non-woven or washable non-woven wallpapers.