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 Rating symbols
Spongeable
This symbol indicates that the wallpaper can be very lightly cleaned using a damp (not soaked) sponge. No cleaning fluids or chemicals should be used. It is mainly intended for removing fresh adhesive residue during installation rather than for routine cleaning.
Why is it relevant to you?
Spongeable wallpaper is typically found on very delicate designs where any aggressive cleaning could damage the finish. It is best suited for areas where spills are unlikely.
Common misconceptions
“All wallpapers are at least spongeable.” In reality, some decorative wallpapers (especially those with flocking or metallic details) may not even support a damp sponge cleaning.
Washable
This wallpaper can be cleaned lightly with a damp cloth and mild soapy water. It helps remove surface dirt but requires careful handling as excessive moisture or pressure may cause tearing.
Why is it relevant to you?
Washable wallpaper offers a balance between design and functionality, making it ideal for spaces where minor spills or fingerprints might occur, such as living rooms or bedrooms with moderate use.
Common misconceptions
- “Washable means stain-proof.” Small marks can be removed, but persistent or oily stains may not come off completely.
- “It’s perfect for kitchens and bathrooms.” While occasional cleaning is possible, these wallpapers are not designed for high-moisture or heavy-use environments.
Extra Washable
This symbol denotes wallpaper that can withstand a more intensive cleaning regimen. Light stains, marks and dirt can be removed using a damp cloth with soapy water without damaging the surface. It is more robust in damper conditions but still not suitable for heavy water exposure.
Why is it relevant to you?
Extra washable wallpaper is ideal for busy areas like dining rooms, children’s bedrooms or family living spaces. It can be used in kitchens and bathrooms as long as it is not exposed directly to streams of water.
Common misconceptions
“Extra washable means it can handle any stain.” Even though it is more durable than washable wallpaper, stubborn or oily stains may still remain.
Scrubbable
Scrubbable wallpaper is designed to withstand more vigorous cleaning. You can remove dirt and various marks with a soft brush or sponge and mild detergent. However, aggressive abrasives should be avoided.
Why is it relevant to you?
It is suitable for high-traffic areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, and children’s playrooms where spills and grime are more likely.
Common misconceptions
- “Scrubbable wallpaper is indestructible.” Although durable, excessive scrubbing or abrasive tools can still damage it.
- “Any cleaning product can be used.” Harsh chemicals may cause discoloration or damage the finish.
Extra Scrubbable
This type of wallpaper is designed for the most demanding cleaning situations. Tough stains, grease, or grime can be scrubbed using soft, mildly abrasive brushes and appropriate cleaning agents without harming the surface.
Why is it relevant to you?
Extra scrubbable wallpaper is best for high-traffic and high-mess environments such as kitchens, mudrooms, or commercial spaces.
Common misconceptions
- “Extra scrubbable means you can use any cleaning product.” Not so – harsh solvents and acidic cleaners may damage the finish.
- “It’s unnecessary for most homes.” For households with active lifestyles or children, it provides lasting durability and easier maintenance.
Lightfastness Symbols
Moderate
This wallpaper offers moderate resistance to fading. It can handle some exposure to natural light but may fade with prolonged or intense sun exposure.
Why is it relevant to you?
If your room receives indirect or low-level light (e.g. a hallway or north-facing bedroom), moderate lightfastness should suffice. However, rooms with intense sunlight might require a higher rating.
Common misconceptions
- “Moderate lightfastness is sufficient for every room.” Direct and intense sunlight can still cause noticeable fading.
- “It only matters for bold colours.” Even subtle or neutral shades can fade under prolonged light exposure.
Satisfactory
The wallpaper maintains its colour reasonably well under moderate light exposure. It is tested to resist fading in areas with fair daylight.
Why is it relevant to you?
Ideal for living spaces with filtered or indirect sunlight, satisfactory lightfastness ensures that the wallpaper stays vibrant for a longer period.
Good
This rating means the wallpaper provides good resistance to fading even with extended light exposure, making it suitable for brighter areas.
Why is it relevant to you?
Good lightfastness is recommended for rooms that receive a lot of daylight, such as living rooms or offices, ensuring a long-lasting appearance.
Excellent
Wallpapers with excellent lightfastness are designed to resist fading almost entirely, even in very bright environments.
Why is it relevant to you?
Perfect for conservatories, sunrooms or any area with intense, prolonged sunlight, ensuring the colours remain as vivid as on day one.
Common misconceptions
“Excellent lightfastness means no fading ever.” While it is the highest rating available, some minor changes may occur after many years of extreme exposure.
Paste Instructions Symbols
Paste the Paper
This symbol indicates that adhesive should be applied directly to the back of the wallpaper. Allow the paste to soak in for the recommended time before hanging.
Why is it relevant to you?
It ensures even absorption of adhesive, reducing the risk of bubbles or peeling once the wallpaper is installed.
Common misconceptions
- “Any adhesive works.” Always use the recommended paste to ensure proper adhesion.
- “It’s a complicated process.” With a little practice, applying paste to the paper is straightforward and effective.
Paste the Wall
This method requires applying adhesive directly onto the wall. Once the wall is prepped and pasted, the wallpaper is hung immediately.
Why is it relevant to you?
It reduces mess and speeds up installation, especially for non-woven wallpapers that do not expand when wet.
Common misconceptions
- “It works for all wallpaper types.” It is only suitable for specific non-woven wallpapers.
- “No wall prep is needed.” The wall must be clean, dry, and smooth for optimal adhesion.
Ready Pasted
This symbol indicates that the wallpaper comes with adhesive pre-applied to the back. Activation is typically done by soaking or spraying with water.
Why is it relevant to you?
Ready pasted wallpapers simplify the installation process, reducing mess and saving time – ideal for DIY projects.
Common misconceptions
“It’s only for temporary use.” Many ready pasted wallpapers are designed for long-term durability when installed correctly.
Pattern Matches Symbols
Free Match
Free match indicates that the wallpaper design does not require alignment between strips – each strip can be hung at any position without pattern matching.
Why is it relevant to you?
It simplifies installation and minimizes waste, making it a cost-effective choice for large areas or challenging wall shapes.
Common misconceptions
- “Free match means low quality.” In fact, many high-end designs use free match for versatility.
- “Alignment is unimportant.” Although alignment isn’t critical, careful cutting still ensures neat edges.
Straight Match
Straight match requires that the design aligns horizontally across all strips. Each strip must be hung at the same height for a continuous pattern.
Why is it relevant to you?
This method is common for symmetrical designs such as stripes or geometric patterns and ensures a flawless finish.
Common misconceptions
“Small patterns don’t need alignment.” Even the smallest designs require precise matching to avoid noticeable discontinuities.
Offset Match
Offset match means that every second strip must be shifted vertically by a specific offset value to ensure the design aligns perfectly across the wall.
Why is it relevant to you?
It is typically used for intricate patterns such as damasks or large florals. Although it can result in more waste, it achieves a seamless look.
Common misconceptions
“Only professionals can install offset match wallpaper.” With careful measurements and patience, DIY enthusiasts can also achieve excellent results.
Distance Offset
This symbol specifies the vertical shift (drop) needed between adjacent strips to align the pattern correctly. For example, a “50/25 CM” reading indicates a 50 cm repeat with a 25 cm offset.
Why is it relevant to you?
Accurate calculation of the offset ensures you purchase the correct amount of wallpaper and achieve a seamless installation.
Common misconceptions
“You can cut all strips to the same length.” For offset match wallpapers, strips may require different lengths to maintain the pattern continuity.
Hanging Symbols
Straight Hanging
This symbol indicates that all wallpaper strips should be hung in the same direction.
Why is it relevant to you?
It is essential for designs with a distinct directional pattern, ensuring a uniform and harmonious look.
Reverse Alternate Lengths
This symbol instructs that each subsequent wallpaper strip must be rotated or reversed to achieve the desired final appearance.
Why is it relevant to you?
It is often used to distribute any slight variations evenly across the wall, resulting in a more balanced overall look.
Horizontal Hanging
This symbol indicates that the wallpaper should be installed horizontally rather than vertically.
Why is it relevant to you?
It is used for designs such as landscapes or stripes that are intended to be viewed in a horizontal orientation, often creating a unique feature wall effect.
Double Embossed
This symbol means the wallpaper is duplex embossed – the texture is present on both sides, providing extra depth and durability.
Why is it relevant to you?
It ensures the wallpaper can hide minor wall imperfections and maintain dimensional stability during installation.
Common misconceptions
- “Double embossed means it’s thicker and harder to install.” In reality, when using the correct adhesive, it installs as easily as standard wallpaper.
- “Embossing will peel off easily.” Properly manufactured double embossed wallpaper retains its texture for years.
Overlap and Double Cut
This symbol instructs you to slightly overlap two wallpaper strips and then make a precise double cut so that the edges align seamlessly.
Why is it relevant to you?
This technique is essential for achieving a clean, professional finish especially on wallpapers that are prone to shrinkage or have a textured surface.
Common misconceptions
“It’s only for professional installers.” With the proper tools and care, DIY enthusiasts can also execute this method effectively.
Adhesive 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
This adhesive is designed for heavier or textile-backed wallpapers and is compatible with wallpapering machines for large-scale installations.
Textile Adhesive with < 20% Dry Matter
A lightweight adhesive with a lower dry matter content, ideal for delicate or thinner textile wallpapers for an even application without rigidity.
Textile Adhesive with > 20% Dry Matter
A stronger adhesive with higher dry matter content, designed for robust textile-backed wallpapers requiring extra adhesion.
Non-woven Wallpaper Adhesive
This adhesive is specifically formulated for non-woven wallpapers, ensuring excellent adhesion without causing expansion or shrinkage.
Removal Symbols
Strippable
This symbol indicates that the wallpaper can be removed dry without leaving adhesive residue or damaging the underlying surface.
Why is it relevant to you?
Ideal for rental properties or frequent redecorators, strippable wallpaper allows for easy removal and replacement.
Common misconceptions
- “It’s only for temporary use.” In fact, strippable wallpapers are durable if installed properly.
- “It works on any wall surface.” A smooth, well-prepared wall is still required.
Peelable
This symbol means that the top decorative layer can be peeled off, leaving the backing which can serve as lining or be removed with water.
Why is it relevant to you?
Peelable wallpaper simplifies future redecorations by allowing you to remove only the decorative layer while reusing the lining.
Common misconceptions
“The backing is always reusable.” Often the backing may be too damaged to reuse even if it serves as a lining.
Wet Removable
This symbol requires soaking the wallpaper with water or a stripping agent before removal. Both the decorative layer and backing are removed together.
Why is it relevant to you?
It is typically used in areas where a strong adhesive bond is needed. Although the removal process is more time‐intensive, it ensures a secure installation during use.
Common misconceptions
“It always requires extensive scrubbing.” With proper soaking, removal can be achieved with minimal effort.
Other Symbols
Durable
This symbol indicates that the wallpaper is engineered to withstand heavy use through tough, washable, and scrubbable materials.
Why is it relevant to you?
Durable wallpaper is ideal for high-traffic areas such as hallways, children’s rooms, kitchens or commercial spaces.
Common misconceptions
“It is only for commercial use.” Durable wallpaper can be a smart choice in any home with high usage.
Matched to Fabric
This symbol shows that the wallpaper’s design is coordinated with a specific fabric collection – ensuring a harmonious look when combined with curtains, upholstery, or cushions.
Why is it relevant to you?
By pairing the wallpaper with matching fabrics, you can create a unified, stylish space with consistent design elements.
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 (EU)
This certification categorizes the wallpaper based on its reaction to fire, ranging from non-combustible (A1) to materials with no determined performance (F). Additional details on smoke and droplet formation are provided.
Why is it relevant to you?
It ensures that the wallpaper meets European fire safety standards, protecting you and your family from potential hazards.
DIN 4102-1 (Germany)
This German standard evaluates the reaction of wallpapers to fire. Materials are categorized from non-combustible to flammable. Although largely superseded by EN 13501-1, it remains an important benchmark.
Why is it relevant to you?
It provides additional assurance of fire safety, particularly in markets where DIN standards are still referenced.
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)
This standard evaluates flame spread and smoke production. Wallpapers are classified into three groups (Class A, B, or C) based on their performance.
Why is it relevant to you?
It is especially important for ensuring safety in public and commercial spaces in the United States.
NFPA 286 (USA)
This full-scale fire test assesses how wallpapers perform in an actual room fire scenario, emphasizing safety beyond just flame spread.
Why is it relevant to you?
It ensures that the wallpaper meets strict fire safety requirements, especially in buildings with high occupancy.
CAN/ULC S102 (Canada)
This Canadian standard assesses flame spread and smoke development, ensuring the wallpaper meets strict local fire safety criteria.
Why is it relevant to you?
It is critical for ensuring compliance with Canadian fire safety regulations.
NR-23 (Brazil)
This standard governs fire prevention and safety in public buildings in Brazil, ensuring that wallpapers minimize fire spread and protect occupants.
Why is it relevant to you?
It guarantees that the wallpaper meets Brazilian regulatory requirements for fire safety.
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
Vinyl Plus (EU)
This label certifies that the wallpaper is made with sustainable PVC, free from harmful chemicals, and meets recycling standards.
Why is it relevant to you?
It helps ensure that your wallpaper contributes to a healthier indoor environment and supports sustainable practices.
Blue Angel Eco Label (Germany)
The Blue Angel is Germany’s official eco-label and certifies that the wallpaper is produced with minimal environmental impact and free of harmful substances.
Why is it relevant to you?
It ensures that the product is environmentally friendly and safe for indoor air quality.
Emissions dans l’air intérieur (France)
This label indicates that the wallpaper complies with strict French regulations on VOC emissions, ensuring a healthier indoor environment.
Why is it relevant to you?
It is crucial for those concerned with indoor air quality and health, especially in densely occupied spaces.
DICL (Denmark)
The Danish Indoor Climate Label certifies that the wallpaper emits minimal VOCs and is safe for indoor use.
Why is it relevant to you?
It ensures that the wallpaper is a healthy choice for indoor environments, particularly in residential and public buildings.
M1 (Finland)
This Finnish certification verifies low VOC emissions, ensuring the wallpaper meets strict indoor air quality standards.
Why is it relevant to you?
It guarantees that the product contributes to a healthier living space with minimal harmful emissions.
Phthalate-Free
This label indicates that the wallpaper has been manufactured without phthalates, which are harmful plasticisers.
Why is it relevant to you?
It helps reduce the risk of exposure to harmful chemicals, contributing to better indoor air quality.
Greenguard (USA)
The Greenguard certification ensures that the wallpaper has low VOC emissions and is safe for indoor environments.
Why is it relevant to you?
It is especially important for settings such as schools, hospitals, and homes where air quality is a priority.
Greenguard GOLD (USA)
This certification applies even stricter VOC thresholds, ensuring an even safer product for sensitive environments.
Why is it relevant to you?
It provides an extra level of assurance for high-risk areas such as healthcare facilities and schools.
LEED (Global)
LEED certification indicates that the wallpaper meets high environmental and sustainability standards, including low VOC emissions.
Why is it relevant to you?
It helps in choosing products that support sustainable building practices and improved indoor air quality.
SCS Indoor Air Quality (USA)
This certification verifies that the wallpaper meets strict standards for low VOC emissions, contributing to a healthier indoor environment.
Why is it relevant to you?
It is particularly important in spaces where occupants are vulnerable, such as homes with children or the elderly.
Conformity Certifications
CE (EU)
The CE mark indicates that the wallpaper meets European safety, health, and environmental standards.
Why is it relevant to you?
It confirms that the product is compliant with essential regulatory requirements in the European market.
UKCA (UK)
The UKCA mark indicates that the wallpaper complies with British standards for safety, health, and environmental protection following Brexit.
Why is it relevant to you?
It is essential for products sold in Great Britain, confirming their compliance with local regulations.
UL-AU Mark (Australia & NZ)
This mark certifies that the wallpaper meets the safety and performance standards required in Australia and New Zealand.
Why is it relevant to you?
It ensures that the product is appropriate for use in these markets and complies with local regulations.
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)
This official EU certification identifies wallpapers with reduced environmental impact while maintaining high quality standards.
Why is it relevant to you?
It ensures that the wallpaper is not only safe and durable but also environmentally responsible.
IGI (Global)
Approved by the International Wallcovering Manufacturers Association, the IGI seal guarantees that the wallpaper meets high standards of quality, safety, and performance.
Why is it relevant to you?
It provides added assurance that the wallpaper has been rigorously tested and certified by industry experts.
FSC 100% (Global)
This certification confirms that the wallpaper is made entirely from wood or wood-based materials sourced from FSC-certified forests.
Why is it relevant to you?
It assures you that the product supports sustainable forest management practices.
FSC Recycled (Global)
This certification indicates that the wallpaper is made entirely from recycled materials, reducing the need for virgin resources.
Why is it relevant to you?
It is a sustainable choice that supports environmental conservation by promoting recycling.
FSC Mix (Global)
This label signifies that the wallpaper is produced from a combination of FSC-certified and recycled materials.
Why is it relevant to you?
It offers a balanced approach to sustainability, ensuring responsible resource use without sacrificing quality.
OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 (Global)
This globally recognised certification ensures that the wallpaper has been tested for harmful substances and is safe for indoor use.
Why is it relevant to you?
It guarantees that the product does not contain harmful chemicals, protecting your indoor air quality.
OEKO-TEX® MADE IN GREEN (Global)
Wallpapers with this label are produced in OEKO-TEX STeP certified facilities and meet rigorous criteria for chemical safety and sustainability.
Why is it relevant to you?
It ensures full traceability and eco-friendly production methods along the entire supply chain.
OEKO-TEX® GRÜNER KNOPF (Germany/EU)
This certification, launched by the German government, ensures that the wallpaper meets strict sustainability and social responsibility criteria.
Why is it relevant to you?
It adds an extra level of assurance regarding the environmental and ethical production of the wallpaper.
Nature Plus (Germany/EU)
This label certifies that the wallpaper has been evaluated for low VOC emissions and absence of harmful chemicals, ensuring safety for indoor air quality.
Why is it relevant to you?
It is widely recognised in Europe as a mark of environmentally friendly and safe products.
RAL (Germany)
The RAL certification ensures that the wallpaper meets specific colour and quality standards set in Germany.
Why is it relevant to you?
It guarantees a consistent colour quality and adherence to strict production standards.
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 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, sustainably sourced materials, and compliance with standards such as REACH and Cradle-to-Cradle. 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, 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.