Afraid to Try Peel and Stick Wallpaper as a Renter? Read This First

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TL;DR: Afraid to Try Peel and Stick Wallpaper as a Renter? Read This First

- Not all peel and stick wallpaper is removable – check the product details carefully.
- Even removable wallpaper can take off some paint if removed multiple times, especially on textured walls.
- To protect your rental:
  - Use painter’s tape to attach poster board (or similar) to the wall.
  - Apply the wallpaper to the board, not directly to the wall.
- Recommended painter’s tapes for delicate surfaces:
  - 3M Scotch Blue (2080)
  - Frog Tape Delicate Surface (Yellow)
  - Duck Clean Release Blue – 60-Day
- Always order samples first to test adhesion and see how the wallpaper works on your specific walls.

If you’re renting and dreaming of transforming your space with peel and stick wallpaper—but you’re worried about damaging your walls—you’re not alone. I’ve been there, and I totally understand the hesitation. The good news? There are safe and smart ways to enjoy the beauty of peel and stick wallpaper without risking your security deposit.

Not All Peel and Stick Wallpaper Is Truly Removable

Let’s start with an important distinction: just because a wallpaper is labeled “peel and stick” doesn’t mean it’s removable. That term often describes how the wallpaper is applied—not how easily it comes off.

Many renters assume “peel and stick” means “safe for walls,” but that’s not always the case. True removable peel and stick wallpaper should clearly state “removable” in the description. If it doesn’t say so, don’t assume it will come off cleanly. Always check the fine print before purchasing.

Even Removable Wallpaper Can Cause Minor Damage – Here’s My Experience

I’ve tested several different peel and stick wallpapers, including my own designs, on the same section of my wall. After the fourth removal on the same spot, some small dots of paint finally came off.

That might sound alarming, but keep in mind:

My walls have a bumpy texture, not a smooth finish.
The wallpaper had been applied and removed multiple times in the exact same place.
Most people won’t be changing their wallpaper that often in the same spot.

So yes – even removable wallpaper can take off a little paint if it’s been removed repeatedly, especially on textured or improperly primed walls. But it’s not the norm.

Remove the Fear: Try This Renter-Safe Technique

One of the best tips I share on TikTok for renters? Create a buffer between your wall and the wallpaper. It’s super simple:

Use painter’s tape to attach poster board (or foam board, or even peel-and-stick cork sheets) directly to your wall.
Apply your wallpaper on top of the board—not the wall itself.

This way, the adhesive never touches the actual wall. It’s a great technique not just for wallpaper but also for peel and stick floor tiles in rentals!

Here are the painter’s tapes I recommend for delicate surfaces:

3M Scotch Blue for Delicate Surfaces (2080) – Low-tack, ideal for textured or recently painted walls.
Frog Tape Delicate Surface (Yellow) – Great for freshly painted or older walls.
Duck Clean Release Blue Painter’s Tape – 60-Day – Reliable and easy to remove cleanly.

Always Test First—Order Samples!

Before you go all in, always order samples. Why?

To see if the wallpaper actually sticks to your wall (some don’t, especially print-on-demand types).
To confirm it looks great in your lighting.
To check how it interacts with your wall texture and paint finish.

I’ve tested samples that peeled off within an hour—and others that didn’t last a full day. Sampling saves time, money, and frustration.

You Can Have Style Without Sacrificing Your Walls

You don’t have to miss out on the charm and style of peel and stick wallpaper just because you rent. With a few precautions—and a little creativity—you can make your space feel like home, damage-free.