Can You Put Peel and Stick Wallpaper on Cabinets and Furniture?

Did you know that peel and stick wallpaper can be used on more than just walls?

Peel and stick wallpaper has surged in popularity—not just for walls but for furniture makeovers as well! This versatile material can breathe new life into old cabinets, dressers, and shelves without the hassle of paint or permanent finishes.

But does peel and stick wallpaper actually work on furniture? The short answer: Yes, but only on the right surfaces. So, if you're considering using it on cabinets, doors, or furniture pieces, you’ll want to make sure the surface is smooth, clean, and properly prepped–or it may not work.

In this post, we’ll talk more about the best surfaces for peel and stick wallpaper, how to prep furniture for success, and expert tips to ensure a long-lasting, beautiful finish.

Why Peel and Stick Wallpaper Is a Game-Changer for Furniture Makeovers

It’s pretty amazing that furniture transformations no longer require paintbrushes, sanding, or expensive refinishing projects. That’s because peel and stick wallpaper offers an affordable, stylish, and commitment-free way to update your furniture.

Why DIYers Love It:

• Budget-Friendly: Instead of buying new cabinets or furniture, you can give your existing pieces a high-end designer look for a fraction of the price.

• No Mess or Strong Fumes: Unlike painting, there’s no need for ventilation, drying time, or multiple coats.

• Perfect for Renters: It’s removable and damage-free, making it an ideal choice for renters who want to personalize their space without violating lease agreements.

• Easily Changeable: If your style evolves, you can switch it out without the commitment of permanent changes.
  

Whether covering outdated kitchen cabinets, a thrifted dresser, or an old bookshelf, peel-and-stick wallpaper lets you refresh furniture in just a few hours—without a single drop of paint.

What Surfaces Work Best for Peel and Stick Wallpaper?

Peel-and-stick wallpaper works best on flat, smooth, and non-porous surfaces where it can fully adhere without lifting or bubbling. Here are a few examples of the best and worst surfaces for peel and stick wallpaper:

Best Surfaces for Peel and Stick Wallpaper on Furniture:

• Flat cabinet doors (without raised panels or deep grooves)

• Dresser drawer fronts

• Smooth bookshelves and storage units

• Tabletops and desktops

Surfaces to Avoid:

• Intricate or deeply grooved wood panels – Raised woodwork and ornate cabinet fronts create air gaps where wallpaper won’t adhere properly.

• Unfinished wood – Raw or highly porous surfaces absorb adhesive, making it harder for the wallpaper to stay in place.

• Highly textured surfaces – Rough, bumpy, or uneven surfaces (like rustic wood or stucco) prevent a smooth application.

• High-moisture areas – If exposed to steam or frequent water splashes (like inside a bathroom vanity), wallpaper may peel faster.

Bonus Tip: If you're working with slightly textured laminate or glossy surfaces, a light sanding and primer can improve the adhesion of the peel and stick wallpaper.

How to Prep Your Cabinets and Furniture for the Best Results

A little preparation can make all the difference between a flawless finish and wallpaper that peels prematurely. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth, long-lasting application:

1. Clean the Surface Thoroughly

• • Use a mild soap and water solution or an alcohol-based cleaner to remove grease, dust, or residue.

  • Avoid using oil-based cleaners, as they can stop the adhesive from sticking properly.

  • Let the surface dry completely before applying wallpaper.

2. Make Sure the Surface is Flat and Smooth

• • If the surface has imperfections, lightly sand rough patches and wipe off debris with a clean cloth.

  • Fill in small holes or scratches with wood filler for a more even surface.

3. Test the Adhesion

• • Before applying the entire piece, place a small test strip on your furniture to ensure proper sticking.

  • If it doesn’t adhere well, consider a layer of adhesive primer to create a better grip.

These extra steps reduce the risk of bubbling, peeling, or lifting edges—ensuring a polished, professional look.

How to Apply Peel and Stick Wallpaper to Furniture

So, how do you actually apply the peel and stick wallpaper to furniture? We’ve broken it down in a few simple steps:

Step 1: Measure and Cut Your Wallpaper

• Use a measuring tape to carefully determine the exact size needed.

• Cut wallpaper slightly larger than the surface to allow for precise trimming.

Step 2: Peel and Stick Carefully

• Start at one edge, slowly peeling back the adhesive while smoothing it down with a credit card or squeegee.

• Work from the center outward to push out any air bubbles.

Step 3: Trim Excess Wallpaper for a Clean Edge

• Use a precision knife (X-Acto knife) or sharp scissors to trim any overhangs.

• Pay extra attention to corners and edges—these are the first places where peeling can occur.
  

Step 4: Secure Edges and Let It Set

• If needed, apply gentle heat (from a hairdryer on low) to help the adhesive bond more securely.

• Let it sit for a few hours before using or cleaning the surface.

Common Peel and Stick Questions and Troubleshooting

We get it; you probably have more questions. We’ve got you covered. Read on for our most common questions and troubleshooting your peel and stick wallpaper.

Will it damage my furniture when removed?

No, as long as the surface was smooth and sealed before application, peel-and-stick wallpaper should remove cleanly. If any residue remains, use rubbing alcohol or mild adhesive remover.

Can I use it on curved or rounded furniture?

Flat surfaces are ideal, but for mild curves, use a heat gun or hairdryer to help the wallpaper conform.

Will Peel and Stick last long-term?

With proper prep and application, it can last for years. However, it’s also easily removable if you want to switch things up.

Is Peel and Stick Wallpaper Right for Your Furniture?

If you’re looking for a stylish, easy, and renter-friendly way to upgrade cabinets, dressers, or bookshelves, peel-and-stick wallpaper is a fantastic choice. Keep in mind that it works best on smooth, flat, and clean surfaces, it’s

budget-friendly alternative to replacing furniture, and it has a temporary but long-lasting if applied correctly.

With endless design options, it’s the perfect way to transform old furniture into something fresh and modern—without the mess or commitment of paint.

Ready to try it for yourself? Browse our collection of high-quality peel and stick wallpaper designs and start your next DIY transformation today!