Which Wallpaper to Use – Paper, Vinyl Coated, Coated Fabric, Solid Vinyl

Wallpaper has been around for a long time, which means that it has changed and evolved through the centuries. Today there are actually four different types of wallpaper, each one with their own sets of pros and cons. For a better look at what your options are, here are the things you need to know about the four different types of wallpapers.

Paper Wallpaper

Easily the most well-known kind of wall covering, paper wallpaper refers to wallpaper that is made entirely of paper without any coating on it. Without anything to help preserve the paper, it is easily damaged and difficult to clean. If you try to use a damp cloth to clean it, the paper will likely tear. It is also easily faded by direct light. It is mostly seen in older homes and apartments. Of the four types, paper wallpaper is the one to avoid in rooms with much use because it is so fragile.

Vinyl Coated Wallpaper

The base layer is usually paper, but it has been coated with either acrylic vinyl or polyvinyl chloride, making it easier to clean. The primary purpose of the layer is to make it so you can clean the wallpaper without damaging it.

Rooms where it gets moist should have this kind of wallpaper, such as the bathroom or kitchen. The vinyl coat protects the patterns and paper from water damage, although you should keep it as dry as possible.

Coated Fabric Wallpaper

Instead of having a base layer of paper, coated fabric uses a fabric base. Unlike vinyl coated wallpaper, coated fabric wallpaper has the designs on the coating, not the fabric. Nor should you use this kind of wallpaper in rooms that get humid. It is designed for a beautiful look in rooms where you entertain company, such as living rooms or dining areas.

Solid Vinyl

Similar to coated fabric, solid vinyl has a fabric base. The difference is in the vinyl – it uses a solid vinyl that can withstand water and scrubbing. It is the best solution in rooms with heavy traffic (and children) because it is strong and resistant to damage. However, it is not necessary in many instances as it is designed for durability under tougher situations, not common daily use. If you have a room where the wallpaper is likely to take a good bit of punishment and you will need to clean it often, you can add solid vinyl to a single room.