Peel and stick wallpaper has emerged as a top choice for fast home transformations. It's popular, renter-approved, and simple to install but what happens if your walls already have wallpaper on them? One of the most common questions we receive is: Can peel and stick wallpaper be installed over existing wallpaper?

The short answer is yes, but with some caution. In this blog post, we're going to take you through when you can, when you can't, and how to achieve the best outcome if you do decide to lay peel and stick wallpaper on top of existing paper.

When Can You Apply Peel and Stick Wallpaper Over Existing Wallpaper?

You may apply peel and stick wallpaper over existing wallpaper if the existing surface is smooth, well-adhered, and clean. The following are the things to inspect prior to starting:

1. Surface Condition

In case of bubbling, peeling, or texturizing of the existing wallpaper, applying peel and stick wallpaper over it can result in weak adhesion and an irregular surface.

2. Cleanliness

Dust, dirt, or oils may interfere with the adhesive on peel and stick wallpaper. Make sure to clean the old wallpaper with a mild soap solution and allow it to dry thoroughly.

3. Colour and Pattern

If the old wallpaper contains strong colors or bold patterns, and your new peel and stick wallpaper is thin or light, the old pattern will be visible. A primer or backing layer can prevent this.

Advantages of Using Peel and Stick Wallpaper Instead of Existing Wallpaper

Time-effective: No need to remove old wallpaper.

Less mess: Evades the challenge of eliminating glue residue or breaking the wall underneath.

Cost-effective: Saves on prep work and renovation expenses.

For an excellent DIY project with peel and stick wallpaper, see how to make a DIY Accent Wall with Peel and Stick Wallpaper. It's an excellent way to try out a new look without making a complete room makeover commitment.

Design Ideas That Work Well Over Existing Wallpaper

After evaluating the condition of your wall, you can now decide on a pattern that will be suitable for your room and covers the layer properly. Go for contemporary prints as well as heavy patterns that contribute to visual richness.

Check out Modern Peel and Stick Wallpapers That Redefine Style here to get some ideas. Abstract geometry to modern flower patterns, each of these collections is not just trendy but good at hiding the underlying.

Tips for a Flawless Finish

Test first: Put a small swatch on to test how well it sticks and whether the old design comes through.

Smooth application: Use a squeegee or smoothing tool to get rid of bubbles and achieve full contact.

Edge sealing: Watch the edges press them down firmly so they don't lift later.

If you are decorating a tricky area like a narrow hallway, effective layering of wallpaper becomes much more crucial. Check what looks good for wallpaper in a narrow hallway to find clever ideas for styling the tight spots.

When to Not Use It

There are times it is good to take away the existing wallpaper:

Textured or embossed as it leaves lumps between the old and the new layers.

If it's damaged or peeling, it will not be a stable base.

If moisture or mold is likely to become a problem, it's safer and healthier to strip the existing layer.

Final Thoughts

So, can you cover existing wallpaper with peel and stick wallpaper? Yes—but only if the circumstances are favorable. With a little preparation and the right design selection, you can create a new fresh look for your space without the added aggravation of removing old wallpaper.