10 Unexpected Places to Use Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper (Yes, Even If You Rent!)
Peel-and-stick wallpaper isn’t just for walls anymore — and it’s not just for homeowners. In 2025, renters are reimagining how to personalize their spaces without permanent commitment. Whether you’re dealing with bland beige walls, builder-grade fixtures, or a lack of architectural character, removable wallpaper offers an affordable and stylish solution.
Thanks to modern designs and easy application, today’s peel-and-stick wallpapers are bold, beautiful, and surprisingly versatile. Below are ten unexpected places you can use them to make your space feel uniquely you — no paint, no nails, and no security deposit drama.
1. Ceilings That Pop
Look up — your ceiling is basically a blank canvas begging for a design moment. Applying peel-and-stick wallpaper to the ceiling might sound bold (because it is), but it’s also stunning when done right. Think starry skies in a bedroom, metallic prints in a powder room, or soft florals in a reading nook. It’s a design trick interior stylists have used for years to draw the eye upward and create a sense of luxury.
For renters, this is a genius way to add dimension without damaging existing paint. Just make sure your wallpaper is lightweight and the surface is clean and smooth. Trust us — the ceiling treatment will have your guests craning their necks in admiration.
2. Inside Closet Walls
Closets are often overlooked in rental design — until now. Lining the inside of your wardrobe or closet with patterned wallpaper transforms it from a utilitarian space to a personal sanctuary. Imagine opening your closet doors to a fresh pop of palm print or a soothing minimalist texture. Suddenly, choosing your outfit feels like a boutique experience.
It’s also a great hack if your rental comes with sliding doors or mirrored panels that can’t be changed — upgrade the inside instead. Bonus points if you coordinate your wallpaper with matching storage bins or hangers.
3. Kitchen Island or Bar Fronts
Kitchen islands often have plain, unadorned sides — which makes them perfect for a creative update. Using peel-and-stick wallpaper on the front or side panels of your kitchen island adds instant personality. Faux wood, tile, or even terrazzo prints can add warmth and texture to your cooking space — without clashing with existing cabinetry.
If you don’t have a built-in island, this also works great on freestanding carts or bar units. Choose water-resistant wallpaper varieties for extra durability in high-traffic zones.
4. Bookshelf or Cabinet Backs
Your shelves don’t have to be boring. Apply wallpaper to the back panel of open bookshelves or glass-front cabinets to add depth and visual interest. It’s one of the easiest ways to transform an IKEA piece into something that looks high-end and curated.
Patterned wallpaper can highlight your book spines, frame your decorative objects, or just give your room an unexpected splash of color. The best part? If you get bored of the look, just peel it off and try a new style next season.
5. Stair Risers
This one’s a showstopper. Stair risers (the vertical part between each step) are often overlooked — but that’s exactly why they’re perfect for a wallpaper makeover. Use peel-and-stick wallpaper in fun patterns, alternating designs, or a bold color gradient to give your staircase some major flair.
Since stairs are typically high-traffic areas, choose a durable peel-and-stick material that can handle occasional scuffing. You’ll be surprised how much character this adds to your entryway or hallway — and it’s 100% renter-friendly.
6. Bathroom Backsplashes
Tired of your rental’s beige bathroom? Add some flair to your sink area with peel-and-stick wallpaper as a makeshift backsplash. Choose moisture-resistant options and seal the edges with clear silicone for extra durability in humid environments.
Tiled patterns, marble prints, or retro florals work beautifully here. It’s a low-risk, high-reward upgrade — perfect for bringing some spa-like vibes to a small or outdated bathroom.
7. Fridge or Appliance Wraps
Believe it or not, your fridge doesn’t have to be an eyesore. Cover the front with peel-and-stick wallpaper to give it a fresh, design-forward look. This hack works especially well in older rentals where appliances are outdated or mismatched.
Try a faux matte black finish for a modern look, or embrace a fun pattern to create a statement piece. You can also coordinate with other nearby elements — like a backsplash or open shelving — to create a cohesive kitchen aesthetic.
8. DIY Faux Headboards
No headboard? No problem. Use peel-and-stick wallpaper to create a faux headboard effect behind your bed. Geometric patterns, arched designs, or textured prints (like velvet or linen styles) give your sleeping area a polished, designer feel — all without drilling a single hole.
This works especially well in studio apartments or minimalist bedrooms where you want to make a statement without adding bulk.
9. Inside Drawers or Drawer Sides
Talk about a hidden gem. Lining the inside of drawers with wallpaper might not seem like a big change, but it creates an instant sense of luxury. Every time you open a drawer, you’re met with a personalized touch that brings joy to even the most mundane task.
You can also apply wallpaper to the outer drawer sides for a peekaboo effect when opened — a detail that feels custom-made. It’s especially fun in desks, vanities, or kitchen drawers.
10. Temporary Entryway Accent Walls
First impressions matter. And in rentals, the entryway is often the only space you can truly make your own without overhauling everything. A peel-and-stick wallpaper accent wall sets the tone for your entire home — think bold geometric prints, warm textures, or calming neutrals.
It’s also the perfect canvas to pair with a small console table, statement mirror, or coat hooks. The result? A space that feels intentional, expressive, and uniquely yours — and when it’s time to move, no damage done.
Outro
Peel-and-stick wallpaper has evolved — and so has the way we use it. It’s no longer just a wall covering — it’s a tool for expression, creativity, and renter-friendly design freedom. Whether you’re dreaming of a jungle-themed closet, a celestial ceiling, or a statement fridge, the only limit is your imagination.
Looking to get started? Check out Deccoprint — a peel-and-stick wallpaper store with fresh patterns and renter-safe materials designed for stylish, no-commitment upgrades.