You’ve picked your dream wallpaper. The colour? Perfect. The pattern? Chef’s kiss. You’re ready to transform your space - until you flip over the roll and find yourself staring at a row of mysterious little icons. A sun? Some wavy lines? A brush? Suddenly, you feel like you’re trying to decipher hieroglyphics instead of planning a home makeover.
If you’ve ever been flummoxed by these symbols, wondering whether your beautiful new wallpaper is washable, removable, or secretly training for the Olympics, you’re not alone. Found on every wallpaper roll, these small but significant icons provide essential information about application, durability, and care. This guide is designed to demystify wallpaper symbols, offering not just definitions but practical insights into why they matter. Whether you’re decorating a high-humidity bathroom, a child’s bedroom, or a commercial space, knowing how to read these symbols can prevent costly mistakes, and help you make an informed decision. Let’s take a closer look at what these symbols mean and how they impact your choice of wallpaper.
Washability
Lightfastness
Paste Instructions
Pattern Matches
Hanging
Adhesive/a>
Removal Symbols
Non-Categorised
Fire Rating
VOC/SVOC Labels
Conformity Certifications
Quality Seals
Washability Rating symbols
It’s spaghetti night, and your five-year-old decides the wall makes a better napkin than their serviette. Whether or not your wallpaper will be able to handle the cleanup depends on its washability rating. That is why it’s so important to understand wallpaper washability symbols! To find out more about how to remove all types of stains, head to How to remove any type of stain from wallpaper. To learn about how to keep your wallpaper clean, check our article How to keep every type of wallpaper clean?.
Spongeable
This symbol allows for very light cleaning using a damp (not soaked) sponge. Do not use any cleaning fluids or chemicals, just water. It’s more designed for the removal of fresh adhesive residue during application than for cleaning after installation. Attempts to clean stains or dirt may damage the wallpaper surface.
Why is it relevant to you?
This is the lowest washability rating, typically found on wallpapers with delicate materials or finishes. If you’re decorating a space where spills and stains are unlikely, such as an adult bedroom or a formal sitting room, this level of washability may suffice.
Common misconceptions
“All wallpapers are at least spongable.” Actually, some highly decorative wallpapers, such as those with flocking or metallic details, may not even be spongable.
Washable
This type of wallpaper can handle light cleaning using a damp cloth and mild soapy water, but no chemicals. It makes it easier to wipe away surface dirt, but it requires you to proceed with great care: using a sponge that is too wet or applying too much pressure may cause the paper to rip and tear.
Why is it relevant to you?
Washable wallpaper strikes a balance between aesthetic appeal and practicality. It’s a great choice for rooms where minor spills or fingerprints might occur but where durability isn’t a primary concern. Think spaces with moderate use rather than high-traffic areas.
Common misconceptions
- “Washable means it’s stain-proof.” Not true! While you can clean small marks, any persistent stains, grease, or grime may not come off without damaging the wallpaper.
- “Washable wallpaper is ideal for kitchens and bathrooms.” While it can handle occasional cleaning, it’s not designed for high-moisture or heavy-use environments.
Extra Washable
This symbol denotes wallpaper that can withstand more intensive cleaning: light stains, marks, and dirt can be removed using a damp cloth and soapy water without damaging the surface. It is more resilient to damper environments, but still vulnerable to large amounts of water.
Why is it relevant to you?
Extra washable wallpaper is perfect for rooms where accidental messes are likely, such as dining areas, children’s bedrooms, or family living spaces. It can also be used in kitchens and bathrooms, but it must be kept away from direct water sources. Do not install it close to your sink or shower.
Common misconceptions
“Extra washable means it can handle any stain.” While it is more durable than washable wallpaper, it still has limits. Persistent or oily stains may not come off entirely.
Scrubbable
Scrubbable wallpaper is designed to withstand vigorous cleaning. You can remove dirt and a variety of different stains and marks using a soft brush, sponge or cloth along with mild detergents. Oils, fats and solvent-based stains must be cleaned immediately.
Why is it relevant to you?
Suitable for decorating spaces that are prone to spills, grime, or heavy use, such as kitchens, bathrooms, children’s playrooms, or commercial areas.
Common misconceptions
- “Scrubbable wallpaper is indestructible.” While it is more robust, it is still paper and aggressive abrasives, excessive force or abrasive cleaning tools (like steel wool) can damage the surface.
- “It’s suitable for all cleaning products.” Harsh chemicals or solvents can still cause discolouration or weaken the wallpaper’s finish. Always use mild detergents.
Extra Scrubbable
This type of wallpaper is designed for the most demanding cleaning needs. Tough stains, grease, or grime in areas where walls are exposed to frequent spills or dirt can be scrubbed with soft and mildly abrasive brushes, stronger cleaning agents and water without damage. Oils, fats and other solvent-based stains must be cleaned immediately.
Why is it relevant to you?
It is perfect for high-traffic or high-mess areas like kitchens, mudrooms, playrooms, or commercial settings.
Common misconceptions
- “Extra scrubbable means you can use any cleaning product.” Abrasive cleaners, strong solvents or acidic products may still harm the surface or fade colours. Always test cleaning solutions on a small hidden area first.
- “It’s overkill for most homes.” Not true! For families with young children, pets, or active lifestyles, extra scrubbable wallpaper can be a lifesaver, ensuring walls stay spotless and avoiding the need for frequent replacements.
Lightfastness Symbols
When selecting wallpaper, it’s important to think about the light conditions in the room throughout the year. Sunlight, whether direct or indirect, can cause fading over time. That’s why you need to understand what these symbols mean. For more info on wallpapering in sunny, tropical climates read the article Is it possible to use wallpaper in tropical climates?
Moderate
The wallpaper offers moderate resistance to light and fading. While it can withstand some exposure to natural light, prolonged or intense sunlight may cause noticeable fading over time.
Why is it relevant to you?
If you’re planning to use this wallpaper in an area with indirect or low light such as a hallway or a north-facing bedroom, it will retain its colours well. However, for sun-drenched spaces like a conservatory or a room with large windows, this level of lightfastness might not be sufficient to maintain the wallpaper's vibrancy.
Common misconceptions
- “Moderate lightfastness is good enough for any room.” Not quite, intense or prolonged sunlight will still cause fading, so it’s not ideal for brightly lit areas.
- “Lightfastness only matters for bright, bold colours.” Even subtle tones or neutral shades can fade under strong light exposure, making this symbol relevant for all models.
Satisfactory
The wallpaper has a satisfactory level of resistance to fading from light exposure. It can handle a reasonable amount of sunlight without significant discolouration.
Why is it relevant to you?
If you’re decorating rooms that receive a fair amount of daylight but not direct, harsh sunlight, like a living room with filtered light or an east-facing bedroom, this wallpaper will maintain its colours for a longer time.
Good
The wallpaper offers good resistance to fading, even when exposed to natural light for extended periods.
Why is it relevant to you?
Good lightfastness makes this wallpaper a reliable choice for areas with consistent light exposure, such as living rooms, dining areas, or home offices.
Common misconceptions
“It only matters for sunny rooms.” Any room with consistent lighting can benefit from good lightfastness, as it extends the wallpaper's beautiful appearance.
Very Good
The wallpaper offers very good protection against fading, even in rooms exposed to prolonged or intense sunlight.
Why is it relevant to you?
Very good lightfastness is the perfect choice for sun-drenched rooms such as conservatories, south-facing living spaces, or areas with large windows.
Excellent
The wallpaper is designed to withstand prolonged, intense light exposure without fading.
Why is it relevant to you?
Excellent lightfastness makes this wallpaper the top choice for sun-soaked rooms like atriums or south-facing walls with large windows. It’s also suitable for commercial spaces where lighting is consistently bright.
Common misconceptions
“Excellent lightfastness means no fading, ever.” While this classification provides the highest level of protection, the wallpaper may still show some fading after years of extreme exposure.
Paste Instructions Symbols
Gone are the days when wallpapering meant a messy, time-consuming process. Wallpapers have evolved - and so have the ways to apply them. That’s why it’s essential to understand the paste instruction symbols for your wallpaper.
Paste the Paper
This is the most common paste symbol that you will see. Pasting the paper is the process of applying the paste directly to the back of the wallpaper, leaving it to soak for a specific amount of time before putting the pasted strip up on the wall.
Why is it relevant to you?
If you’re working with traditional wallpapers, understanding this symbol is essential. Applying the paste directly to the paper allows it to absorb evenly, preventing bubbles or peeling once it’s on the wall.
Common misconceptions
- “Any wallpapering paste will work.” Not all adhesives are created equal - always use the paste recommended for the specific type of wallpaper to avoid complications.
- "It’s harder to install." While it requires an extra step, applying paste to the paper is straightforward and ensures a strong bond, a fact that is particularly useful for heavier wallpapers.
- "It’s outdated." Many high-quality and specialty wallpapers still require this method as it provides better adhesion and durability compared to other options.
Paste the Wall
This symbol indicates that you should apply adhesive directly to the wall (instead of the wallpaper). Once the wall is coated, you can hang the wallpaper strips immediately. A more recent addition to the wallpaper world, this method is commonly used for non-woven wallpapers which do not expand when wet and are easier to handle during installation.
Why is it relevant to you?
As it’s quicker and less messy compared to pasting the paper, paste-the-wall models are ideal for DIY projects, allowing you to focus on positioning the wallpaper without worrying about sticky pasted strips. Also, the wallpaper itself does not expand or contract when wet, making it easier to handle. For more info on this popular wallpaper type, you can head to What does “paste the wall” mean?
Common misconceptions
- “You can use this method for all wallpapers.” Not true. This technique is specifically designed for non-woven wallpapers. Traditional wallpapers require the paste-the-paper method.
- “The wall doesn’t need preparation.” Incorrect. The wall should be clean, dry, and smooth to ensure proper adhesion.
Ready Pasted
This symbol means the wallpaper comes with adhesive already applied to the back. To activate the adhesive, you soak the wallpaper in water for a short time or simply spray the backing with water. Once activated, the wallpaper can be hung directly on the wall without the need for additional paste.
Why is it relevant to you?
Typically used for lighter wallpapers that don’t require heavy-duty adhesion, ready-pasted wallpaper eliminates the need to apply adhesive separately, reducing mess and saving time. This makes it especially appealing for first-time DIYers or smaller wallpapering projects.
Common misconceptions
- "It’s only for temporary use." Many ready-pasted wallpapers are designed for long-term use and can last for years if properly installed and maintained.
- “It works for any type of wall.” Not all surfaces are compatible with ready-pasted wallpaper. Ensure the wall is clean, smooth, and free of moisture for the best results.
Pattern Matches Symbols
You’ve found the perfect wallpaper and are ready to get going with your project! Before you start cutting and pasting, however, there’s one thing you need to know: how the pattern fits together. That’s where pattern repeat symbols come in. Understanding them can make all the difference between a seamless, stunning wall and one that feels a little… off. For a more in detail look at this topic, head to What does pattern repeat and pattern match mean?
Free Match
The term Free Match indicates that the wallpaper design does not require any alignment between strips. You can hang each strip in any position without worrying about matching patterns or motifs.
Why is it relevant to you?
The easiest of the pattern matches to hang, free match wallpapers are ideal for beginners or anyone looking for a hassle-free application. They work especially well in rooms with high ceilings or awkward spaces as there’s no need to calculate pattern repeats or adjust for alignment. Plus, since there’s minimal waste, it’s a more cost-effective choice for large projects.
Common misconceptions
- “Free match means low quality.” Not at all! Many elegant wallpapers, including textured and plain designs, use a free match pattern for simplicity and versatility.
- “It doesn’t matter how you cut the strips.” While alignment isn’t needed, it’s still important to handle each strip carefully to avoid uneven cuts or damaged edges.
Straight match
Straight match wallpaper requires the design to align horizontally across all strips. This means that each strip must be hung at the same height to ensure the pattern continues seamlessly across the wall.
Why is it relevant to you?
Straight match is commonly used for wallpapers with symmetrical or continuous patterns, such as stripes, geometric designs, or floral arrangements. It can result in slightly more waste compared to free match, as adjustments are often needed to align the pattern.
Common misconceptions
“You can skip alignment if the pattern is small.” Even tiny patterns require alignment for a seamless finish - otherwise, mismatched designs can be quite noticeable.
Offset Match
Offset match means that in order for adjacent strips to match up, every second strip must be offset by a specific distance indicated on the wallpaper roll, called “drop” or “offset” match. This means each second strip must be shifted vertically by the specified amount to maintain the seamless flow of the pattern.
Why is it relevant to you?
The most difficult wallpaper pattern to hang, offset match is commonly found on wallpapers with intricate or complex patterns like damasks, murals, or large floral designs. This pattern type results in more waste as strips need to be trimmed to achieve the correct alignment.
Common misconceptions
“Offset match is only for professional installers.” While it’s a bit more challenging, careful measurements and patience make it achievable for DIY enthusiasts, too!
Distance Offset
Directly related to the above offset match wallpaper symbol, it tells you the distance you need to shift each strip vertically to align the pattern correctly. If the symbol reads “50/25 CM,” the full pattern repeat is 50 cm, and the offset distance between strips is 25 cm.
Why is it relevant to you?
Understanding the distance offset is critical for calculating how much wallpaper you’ll need and ensuring the pattern aligns correctly during installation.
Common misconceptions
“You can cut all strips the same length.” Not for offset match wallpapers. Each strip may need to be cut differently to maintain pattern alignment.
Hanging Symbols
No matter how eager you are to get your decoration project started, before you dive in there’s one crucial step you can’t afford to skip: checking the hanging symbols. These icons might seem small, but they hold the key to a smooth installation and a flawless finish!
Straight hanging
This symbol indicates that all wallpaper strips are put up on the wall in the same direction.
Why is it relevant to you?
It is particularly important for designs with a specific orientation, such as geometric patterns, large florals, or motifs with a top-to-bottom layout.
Reverse Alternate Lengths
This symbol indicates that the wallpaper should be hung in the opposite direction to achieve the desired final look. This means that each wallpaper strip must be rotated and reversed when hanging the next length.
Why is it relevant to you?
This method is typically used for plain or textured wallpapers where reversing the strips ensures an even distribution of colour, pattern, or texture variations. It helps avoid subtle mismatches that can occur due to natural differences in wallpaper rolls or production processes.
Common misconceptions
“It only applies to patterns.” Even plain or textured wallpapers can have directional nuances, which is why reversing strips is crucial for achieving a flawless look.
Horizontal hanging
This symbol specifies that the wallpaper is designed to be installed horizontally, with each strip running along the width of the wall.
Why is it relevant to you?
It is used in some wallpapers featuring landscapes, stripes, or geometric patterns that are meant to be viewed horizontally. They are very effective for creating striking feature walls or for spaces with low ceilings.
Common misconceptions
- “Horizontal hanging is optional.” It’s not. Installing the wallpaper vertically will disrupt the design and result in a look that doesn’t match the intended style.
- "It’s harder to hang." Hanging wallpaper horizontally isn’t necessarily harder, but it does require careful planning to ensure the pattern matches at the seams.
Double embossed
Double embossed wallpaper (also known as “duplex”) features a textured surface on both sides, providing extra depth and durability. The symbol indicates that the wallcovering is made from two base papers, combined with an adhesive before the wallcovering is embossed.
Why is it relevant to you?
It means the embossing is of high quality and the wallpaper will remain dimensionally stable during installation. This process enhances the wallpaper's ability to hide minor imperfections on walls while offering a tactile, decorative finish.
Common misconceptions
- “Double embossed means it’s thicker and harder to install.” While it may feel slightly sturdier, it is just as easy to hang as standard wallpaper when using the correct adhesive.
- “Embossing can peel off easily.” Double embossed wallpapers are designed for durability, and with proper installation and care, the texture will stay intact for years.
Overlap and double cut
This symbol instructs you to slightly overlap two strips of wallpaper during installation and then make a precise double cut through both layers. Once the excess material is removed, the edges will align seamlessly.
Why is it relevant to you?
The overlap and double cut method is essential for achieving a clean, professional look with wallpapers that are prone to shrinkage or have a thick, textured surface.
Common misconceptions
“It’s only for professionals.” With the right tools, such as a sharp blade and a straight edge, DIYers can achieve excellent results using this method.
Adhesive Symbols
Not all wallpaper adhesives are created equal. Just because it says “wallpapering paste” it doesn’t mean it is necessarily suitable for your specific model. Let’s look at the meaning behind these cryptic symbols.
PVAc-Reinforced
The adhesive is fortified with PVAc, making it suitable for heavier wallpapers such as vinyl or textured designs.
Fabric Adhesive, Suitable for Machine Use
The adhesive is suitable for heavier or textile-backed wallpapers and compatible with wallpapering machines, for large-scale or professional installations.
Textile adhesive with < 20% dry matter content
Lightweight textile adhesive with a lower dry matter content, suitable for delicate or thinner textile wallpapers. The reduced dry matter ensures a smooth and even application without causing the wallpaper to become overly rigid or heavy.
Textile Adhesive with Dry Matter Content >20%
Stronger textile adhesive with a higher dry matter content, designed for heavier or more robust textile-backed wallpapers.
Non-woven Wallpaper Adhesive
Adhesive specifically formulated for non-woven wallpapers. Non-woven adhesives are designed to be applied directly to the wall as non-woven wallpapers do not expand or shrink when wet, making them easier to handle and install.
Removal Symbols
Even your favourite wallpaper might one day have to make way for something new. Whether you’re refreshing your place, updating your style, or simply are ready for a change, understanding wallpaper removal symbols is key to making the process as smooth as possible.
Strippable
Entire lengths of the wallpaper can be removed dry without leaving adhesive or residue or damaging the surface underneath. Both the back and front layers will come off the wall. No special tools or soaking are required.
Why is it relevant to you?
Strippable wallpaper is perfect for those who like to redecorate frequently or want a low-commitment option. It’s a great choice for rental properties or children’s rooms where the wallpaper may need to be replaced as preferences change.
Common misconceptions
- “It’s only for temporary use.” Strippable wallpaper models are just as durable as traditional ones and can last for many years if properly installed and maintained.
- “It’s suitable for any wall condition.” Strippable wallpaper still requires smooth, well-prepared walls; uneven or damaged walls might make removal more difficult.
Peelable
The wallpaper's top layer can be peeled off easily, leaving the backing layer on the wall. The remaining backing can either serve as lining for the new wallpaper or be removed with water and a sponge.
Why is it relevant to you?
Peelable wallpaper is a practical option for those who plan to redecorate in the future. It simplifies the removal process by allowing you to peel off the decorative layer while providing a ready-made lining for the next application.
Common misconceptions
“The backing layer is always reusable.” The backing serves as a lining for new wallpaper but may not be in good enough condition to reuse if damaged during removal.
Wet Removable
The wallpaper must be soaked with water or a stripping agent to loosen the adhesive before removal. The top layer and backing are removed together with the help of a scraper or a putty knife.
Why is it relevant to you?
Wet removable wallpaper is often used for spaces where a strong adhesive bond is required, such as kitchens or bathrooms. While the removal process is more time-intensive, it ensures secure adhesion during the wallpaper's lifespan.
Common misconceptions
“Wet removable wallpaper always requires extensive scrubbing.” With proper soaking and patience, the wallpaper can usually be removed with minimal effort.
Other Symbols
Durable
The wallpaper is specifically designed to withstand heavy use and maintain its integrity over time. It’s made from tough, washable, and scrubbable materials that can handle wear and tear in high-traffic areas or demanding environments.
Why is it relevant to you?
Durable wallpaper is the perfect choice for busy areas like hallways, children’s rooms, kitchens, or commercial spaces.
Common misconceptions
“Durable wallpaper is only for commercial use.” While it’s ideal for commercial settings, it’s also a smart choice for family homes or any area subject to heavy use.
Matched to Fabric
The wallpaper is designed to match or complement a specific fabric collection. Its patterns, colours, or textures are coordinated to allow seamless integration between wallpaper and fabric, such as curtains, upholstery, or cushions.
Why is it relevant to you?
By pairing your wallpaper with matching curtains, cushions, or upholstery, matched-to-fabric wallpapers are designed to provide a unified, stylish space.
Fire Rating Logos, Ratings and Certifications
When it comes to wallpaper, fire safety is just as important as aesthetics. Understanding the fire regulation standards for your country ensures that your chosen wallpaper meets safety requirements to minimise risks for you and your family.
DIN EN 13501-1 (European Union)
The DIN EN 13501-1 standard categorises building materials, including wallpaper, based on their reaction to fire. The classifications range from A1 (non-combustible) to F (no performance determined), with additional labels indicating smoke production (s1-s3) and flaming droplets (d0-d2). The fire rating on your wallpaper label is likely to be composed of three parts, like for example: B s1 d0, which in this case translate as limited flammability, very limited smoke contribution, no burning droplets. For more info click here.
DIN 4102-1(Germany)
DIN 4102-1 is a German fire safety standard that evaluates the reaction of construction materials, including wallpapers, to fire. It categorises materials into several classes, ranging from "non-combustible" (A1 and A2) to "normal flammability" (B2) and "easily flammable" (B3). While largely replaced in the European Union by EN 13501-1, it is still widely recognised and used internationally as a benchmark for fire safety. For more info click here.
NF P 92 503-507 (France)
French standard that evaluates the fire performance of construction and decorative materials, including wallpapers. Materials are then classified into five categories: M0 (non-combustible), M1 (non-flammable), M2 (low flammability), M3 (moderately flammable), and M4 (highly flammable). Wallpapers are tested to ensure they meet at least M1 or M2 classification for use in public or high-occupancy buildings like schools, hospitals, and offices. For more info click here.
ASTM E84 (USA)
ASTM E84 is a key fire safety standard in the United States. It evaluates materials like wallpaper and categorise them into three classes: Class A, or Class I, represents the highest level of fire resistance with low flame spread and minimal smoke production, making it ideal for high-risk spaces like schools and hospitals. Class B and Class C allow for moderate and higher flame spread, respectively, and are typically suited for less stringent environments. For more info click here.
NFPA 286 (USA)
NFPA 286, is another fire safety standard in the United States. Unlike ASTM E84, which focus on flame spread and smoke development, NFPA 286 assesses the performance of materials in a full-scale room fire scenario. Wallpapers meeting NFPA 286 are ideal for spaces where enhanced fire safety is essential, such as schools, hospitals, and commercial buildings. This standard is often required in areas where fire code regulations are stringent. For more info click here.
CAN/ULC S102 (Canada)
CAN/ULC S102 is a Canadian fire safety standard that evaluates the flame spread and smoke development of construction materials, including wallpapers. Wallpapers certified under CAN/ULC S102 are essential for spaces requiring strict adherence to Canadian fire safety regulations. For more info click here.
NR-23 (Brazil)
NR-23 is the regulatory standard for fire prevention and safety measures in public buildings in Brazil. It outlines requirements for fire-resistant materials, including wallpapers, to minimise the spread of fire and protect building occupants. For more info click here.
AS 5637.1:2015 (Australia)
This Australian standard assesses the fire performance of wall and ceiling linings, including wallpapers. This standard is part of the National Construction Code (NCC), and wallpapers tested under AS 5637.1:2015 are assigned a Group Number (1, 2, or 3), with Group 1 being the highest fire safety rating. For more info click here
ISO 5660 (Australia and New Zealand)
International standard adopted in Australia and New Zealand, it assesses the critical fire behaviour characteristics such as heat release rate, smoke production, and material degradation when exposed to fire. It is often used in conjunction with local fire safety standards, like AS 5637.1 in Australia, to determine the wallpaper’s suitability for specific applications. For more info click here.
VOC/SVOC labels and Certifications
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and Semi-Volatile Organic Compounds (SVOCs) are chemicals that can evaporate into the air from building materials, furniture, and decorative products like wallpapers. These compounds are a growing concern due to their impact on indoor air quality and potential health risks, such as respiratory irritation and long-term effects on vulnerable population groups. To address these concerns, certification labels have emerged to identify products that meet strict emission standards.
Vinyl Plus (European Union)
A sustainability initiative for the European PVC industry, this label means that certified wallpapers are made with sustainable PVC, free from harmful substances like phthalates or heavy metals, and meet recycling standards.
Blue Angel Eco Label (Germany)
The Blue Angel is Germany’s official eco-label and one of the most trusted certifications for environmentally friendly products. It ensures that certified wallpapers are produced with minimal environmental impact, using sustainable materials, and are free from harmful chemicals such as formaldehyde, phthalates, and heavy metals.
Emissions dans l’air intérieur (France)
Since 2012, all construction and decorative products sold in France, including wallpapers, must comply with VOC labelling regulations under Décret n° 2011-321. Products are tested for emissions of 10 specific VOCs 28 days after application and are classified on a scale from A+ (very low emissions) to C (high emissions).
DICL (Denmark)
The Danish Indoor Climate Label (DICL) is a certification that ensures that wallpapers emit minimal VOCs and do not release harmful chemicals into the environment over time.
M1 (Finland)
The M1 label is a Finnish certification issued by The Finish Building Information Foundation RTS that certifies low-emission products and includes requirements on VOC, formaldehyde and ammonia emission according to EN 16516 and odour testing according to ISO 16000-28 (acceptance).
Phthalate-Free
The phthalate-free label is not governed by a single regulatory body and signifies that a wallpaper has been manufactured without the use of phthalates (chemical plasticisers often used to increase the flexibility of PVC and other plastics).
Greenguard (USA)
The GREENGUARD certification, awarded by UL (Underwriters Laboratories), screens products for more than 10,000 VOCs known to pollute indoor air. It certifies that a product has low volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions, addressing concerns about chemical exposure.
Greenguard GOLD (USA)
The stringent standards under the GREENGUARD Certification program provide tighter thresholds for volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions, making certified wallpapers safe for use in schools, healthcare facilities, and homes with children or the elderly.
LEED (United States/Mexico/Global)
LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is a globally recognised certification system for sustainable buildings and materials, developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). LEED compliant wallpapers are rated for low VOC emissions.
SCS Indoor Air Quality (USA)
The SCS Indoor Air Quality certification, provided by SCS Global Services, certifies that wallpapers meet stringent standards for low VOC emissions.
Conformity Certifications
Conformity certifications like CE, UKCA, and UL exist to guarantee that wallpapers meet safety, health, and environmental standards set by specific regions.
CE (European Union)
The CE mark is the European Union conformity certification and indicates that a product meets EU safety, health, and environmental protection standards. For wallpapers, this symbol ensures compliance with essential requirements, including fire safety, chemical composition, and manufacturing quality.
UKCA (United Kingdom)
The UKCA (UK Conformity Assessed) mark is a certification used in the United Kingdom to indicate that a product complies with British safety, health, and environmental standards. Introduced after Brexit, it replaces the CE mark for products sold in Great Britain.
UL-AU Mark (Australia and New Zealand)
The UL-AU Mark is a conformity certification issued by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) for products sold in Australia and New Zealand. It ensures that the product complies with local safety, performance, and environmental standards, making it suitable for these markets.
Quality Seals
In a globalised internet economy where the origins of a wallpaper might not always be clear, quality seals play a crucial role in guiding consumers towards safe and eco-friendly products that meet high standards for safety, sustainability, and performance.
Ecolabel (EU)
Official EU certification that identifies wallpapers with reduced environmental impact, while maintaining high quality standards. It also certifies compliance with REACH Regulation to ensure no harmful chemicals are used. For more info click here .
IGI (Global)
Approved by the International Wallcovering Manufacturers Association, for wallpapers meeting high standards of quality, safety, and performance. For more info click here.
FSC 100% Global)
Certification provided by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) guaranteeing the wallpaper is made entirely from wood or wood-based materials sourced from FSC-certified forests. For more info click here.
FSC Recycled (Global)
It guarantees the wallpaper is made entirely from recycled materials. Unlike FSC 100%, FSC Recycled focuses on reducing the use of virgin materials by promoting the reuse of existing wood and paper products. For more info click here.
FSC Mix (Global)
The wallpaper is made from a combination of FSC-certified materials (sourced from responsibly managed forests) and recycled materials. For more info click here.
OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 (Global)
Globally recognised certification that ensures wallpapers are tested for harmful substances, such as heavy metals, pesticides, and formaldehyde. For more info click here.
OEKO-TEX® MADE IN GREEN (Global)
Wallpapers with this label are certified according to OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 and produced in an OEKO-TEX STeP (transparency and traceability in the supply chain, comprehensive analysis of chemical management, handling of environmental impact, occupational health and safety, social responsibility) certified facility. For more info click here.
OEKO-TEX® GRÜNER KNOPF (Germany/European Union)
The “Green Button,” is a certification launched by the German government that ensures that the wallpaper meets rigorous sustainability and social responsibility standards throughout its production. For more info click here.
Nature Plus (Germany / EU)
Certifies that the wallpaper has been evaluated for environmental protection, low VOC emissions, absence of harmful chemicals, and safety for indoor air quality. Originating in Germany, NaturePlus is widely recognised in Europe. For more info click here.
RAL (Germany)
Issued by the Quality Association for Wallpaper (Gütegemeinschaft Tapete e.V.) it guarantees that the wallpaper has passed quality and testing regulations, in addition to health and ecological safety standards. For more info click here.
Imprim'Vert (France)
French environmental certification that guarantees adherence to strict environmental guidelines, including safe disposal of hazardous waste, responsible energy and water usage, using inks with low volatile organic compound (VOC) content and avoiding toxic substances like heavy metals in inks and materials. For more info click here.
Nordic Swan Ecolabel (Scandinavia)
Certification introduced in 1989 by the Nordic Council of Ministers. It requires wallpapers to meet strict environmental, health, and quality standards, including limiting the use of hazardous chemicals such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) or heavy metals as well as encouraging the use of renewable and recyclable materials. For more info click here.
Ecologo (Canada)
EcoLogo, certified by UL (Underwriters Laboratories), evaluates the entire lifecycle of the wallpaper, from raw material extraction to production and disposal, ensuring compliance with strict sustainability and performance criteria. For more info click here.
PEFC (Global)
The PEFC (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification) ensures that wood-based products, including wallpapers with paper components, come from responsibly managed forests that meet strict environmental, social, and ethical standards. For more info click here.
B Corporation (Global)
B Corp-certified brands ensure their products are ethically made, eco-friendly, and contribute positively to communities and the planet. For more info click here.
Cradle to Cradle (Global)
Cradle to Cradle-certified wallpapers are free of harmful chemicals, can be safely returned to the environment or industry, and are manufactured using renewable energy. For more info click here.
Facts (United States)
Administered by the Association for Contract Textiles, FACTS-certified wallpapers adhere to strict criteria for resource use, recyclability, and indoor air quality, ensuring minimal environmental harm and a healthier indoor environment. For more info click here.
Climate Neutral Certified (Global)
The Climate Neutral Certified label is a global certification designed to recognise companies and products that have achieved carbon neutrality. In wallpapers featuring this label, the production and supply chain are designed to minimise climate impact. For more info click here.
Ecovadis (France)
Ecovadis evaluates wallpaper companies' sustainability performance across key areas: environmental practices, labour and human rights, ethics, and sustainable procurement. For more info click here.
BREEAM (UK)
Sustainability assessment and certification system developed in the UK; it certifies materials like wallpapers for contributions to achieving sustainability points through low VOC emissions, using sustainably sourced materials, REACH or Cradle-to-Cradle compliancy, or through thermal and acoustic properties. For more info click here.
SCS (North America)
North American environmental certification programme covering recycled content, material sourcing, and carbon-neutral manufacturing. For more info click here.
Masters of Linen (European Union)
The label guarantees that the linen wallpaper is made entirely in Europe using 100% European linen. For more info click here.
ABNT Ecolabel (Brazil)
Brazil's recognised environmental certification; it ensures that wallpapers meet strict eco-friendly standards, including sustainable sourcing of materials, non-toxic adhesives, and low VOC emissions. For more info click here.
Green Label (Israel)
Official ecolabel of the Standards Institution of Israel, indicating that a wallpaper is environmentally friendlier compared to its counterparts. For more info click here.
GECA Green Label (Australia)
The Australian GECA Green Label guarantees sustainable production processes, minimal VOC emissions, and the use of non-toxic materials. For more info click here.
ECNZ (Environmental Choice New Zealand)
The official ecolabel of New Zealand, owned and endorsed by Environmental Choice New Zealand (ECNZ). For more info click here.