You’ve decided your wallpaper has had its time — but the thought of stripping it off sounds like a weekend-long nightmare. It’s tempting to just paint over it and call it done. The question is: should you?
At Southern Highlands Painting and Wallpapering, we get asked this all the time. The truth is, painting over wallpaper can work — but only in the right circumstances and with careful preparation. Done well, it can save time and mess. Done wrong, it can leave bubbling, peeling paint and an uneven finish that’s harder to fix later.
This guide breaks down when painting over wallpaper is a smart shortcut, when it’s not, and how to get the best possible result if you go ahead.
When Painting Over Wallpaper Works
Painting over wallpaper can be an effective option if the paper is in good condition and firmly attached to the wall.
Here’s when it’s usually safe to do so:
- The wallpaper is smooth and well-adhered. There are no loose seams, tears, or bubbles.
- It’s a single layer of wallpaper. Multiple layers can trap moisture, causing peeling.
- You’re using the right paint. Acrylic or water-based paints tend to work best for this job, as oil-based paints can loosen adhesive.
- The room isn’t high-humidity. Bathrooms and laundries are risky — steam can weaken the wallpaper adhesive over time.
In these situations, painting over wallpaper can save hours of scraping and mess, especially in older homes where removing wallpaper could damage the plaster beneath.
When You Shouldn’t Paint Over Wallpaper
Sometimes, the shortcut just isn’t worth it.
You should avoid painting over wallpaper if:
- The wallpaper is damaged or peeling. Paint will only emphasise imperfections.
- There are multiple wallpaper layers. Moisture from paint can loosen them, causing bubbles and lifting.
- It’s made from vinyl or has a glossy coating. These surfaces don’t absorb paint well and may cause adhesion issues.
- You’re planning a long-term finish. If you want a flawless, lasting result, removal and proper preparation will always give you a better foundation.
If any of these apply, it’s better to remove the wallpaper first — even if it takes longer. A smooth, clean surface always produces the best paint finish.
How to Paint Over Wallpaper (The Right Way)
If you decide to go ahead, preparation makes all the difference. Here’s how to do it properly:
- Clean the wallpaper. Wipe it down with a damp cloth and mild detergent to remove dust, grease, and dirt. Let it dry completely.
- Repair any damage. Re-glue loose seams, fill small tears with filler, and sand lightly for a smooth finish.
- Prime the surface. Use a good quality acrylic primer to seal the wallpaper and prevent moisture from reaching the adhesive. This also blocks stains and patterns from showing through.
- Paint carefully. Apply two light coats of high-quality interior paint, allowing proper drying time between coats. Use a roller for even coverage and a brush for edges.
Following these steps can produce a surprisingly clean, professional-looking finish — provided the wallpaper underneath is in solid condition.
The Pros and Cons of Painting Over Wallpaper
| Pros | Cons |
| Faster and less messy than stripping | May trap moisture, leading to bubbling or peeling |
| Protects delicate plaster in older homes | Paint may highlight seams or textures |
| Can look smooth if properly primed | Difficult to remove later — both paint and wallpaper come off together |
| Suitable for low-humidity areas like bedrooms or hallways | Doesn’t work well on vinyl or heavily textured wallpaper |
When It’s Worth Getting Professional Help
If your wallpaper is old, textured, or covering uneven plaster, hiring a professional can save time — and ensure the finish lasts. At Southern Highlands Painting and Wallpapering, we can assess your walls and recommend whether painting over wallpaper is worth it or if removal is the smarter long-term option. See our recent blog on the “Wallpapering yourself vs hiring a professional
We also have the tools and primers needed to seal wallpaper properly, preventing moisture damage and ensuring your new paint finish looks smooth and even.
Painting over wallpaper can be a smart shortcut — but only if the wallpaper is sound, the surface is prepped correctly, and you’re realistic about the results. In some cases, it’s a practical fix; in others, it’s a short-term patch that can lead to bigger issues down the track.
If you’re unsure whether to paint or strip, talk to your local experts at Southern Highlands Painting and Wallpapering. We’ll help you choose the right approach for your walls — so you end up with a flawless finish that lasts.