How to Hang Wallpaper Around a Backsplash Without Bubbles

Quick answer

To hang wallpaper around a backsplash without bubbles, start with a clean, smooth wall, measure and cut your panel with extra allowance, then peel the backing in small sections and smooth outward from the center using a felt-edged squeegee. Work slowly, keep the paper slightly taut, and press firmly around outlets and edges. Order all panels at once to avoid batch color differences.

Prep the wall and backsplash edge

Before you peel any backing, wash the wall with a mild degreaser to remove cooking residue, then rinse and let it dry completely. Sand any glossy paint or bumps, and wipe away dust. If your backsplash has a lip or trim, clean that edge too so the wallpaper can sit flush. A smooth, dry surface is the single biggest factor in avoiding bubbles and lifting later.

Measure twice and cut with a sharp blade

Measure the height from the top of your backsplash to the ceiling or desired stopping point, then add 2–3 inches of extra allowance at the top and bottom. For width, measure the full wall and divide by the panel width you ordered. Cut on a cutting mat with a fresh utility blade; a dull blade tears the textile backing and creates ragged edges that trap air. If you are using a patterned wallpaper, match the repeat before cutting each panel.

Install in small sections, not full strips

Peel only the top 12–18 inches of backing and press that section to the wall, leaving the rest of the backing in place. Smooth from the center outward with a felt squeegee or your hand covered in a soft cloth. Then peel another 12–18 inches and repeat. This method gives you control and prevents the paper from folding onto itself, which is a common cause of creases and bubbles. For peel and stick backsplash wallpaper, the adhesive grabs quickly, so reposition while the section is still partially unpeeled.

Handle outlets and switches without trapping air

Turn off power at the breaker before working around outlets. Lay the wallpaper over the outlet, then use a utility knife to cut a diagonal X from corner to corner of the outlet box. Fold the triangular flaps inward and trim them flush with the box edge. Press the paper firmly around the cutout with a squeegee. Cutting a clean X instead of a rectangle lets the paper conform to the box and reduces air pockets around the edges.

Smooth bubbles immediately and know when to prick

As you work, push air toward the nearest edge with your squeegee. If a small bubble appears, lift the nearest corner and re-smooth rather than pressing it flat. For stubborn bubbles after the paper is fully adhered, prick the center with a pin and smooth outward. This releases trapped air without tearing the surface. Avoid overworking the paper; too much pressure can stretch the material and create waves.

Step-by-step: bubble-free backsplash wallpapering

1. Clean and dry the wall: Wash with mild degreaser, rinse, and let dry fully. Sand glossy spots and wipe dust. Checkpoint: the wall should feel smooth and completely dry before you peel any backing.
2. Measure and cut with allowance: Add 2–3 inches to height and width for trimming. Use a sharp blade and a cutting mat. Checkpoint: a dull blade tears the textile backing—swap it before you start.
3. Peel and stick in small sections: Peel 12–18 inches of backing at a time. Press from the center outward with a felt squeegee. Checkpoint: if the paper folds onto itself, stop and lift that section before continuing.
4. Cut around outlets with an X: Turn off power. Cut a diagonal X over the outlet, fold flaps inward, and trim flush. Checkpoint: press the edges firmly with a squeegee to seal out air.
5. Smooth and prick stubborn bubbles: Push air to the nearest edge. For trapped bubbles, prick with a pin and smooth outward. Checkpoint: never press a bubble flat—lift and re-smooth or prick it.
6. Order all panels at once: Wallpaper colors may vary slightly between material batches, including samples. Order every panel for the project together. Checkpoint: confirm your full panel count before ordering to avoid batch color differences.

Products that fit this project

• Abstract Oysters Print Backsplash: Abstract Oysters Print Backsplash is a modern decorative panel designed for use as a backsplash, available in multiple dimensions from an 11" × 8" sample up to 15" × 95" widths, all with a 15" height, and in Black & Mist or a custom color. The 15-inch height suits standard backsplash areas, and the sample size lets you test the color and fit before ordering full panels.
• Neutral Funky Monkey Wallpaper: Neutral Funky Monkey Wallpaper is a self adhesive removable textile wallpaper that is water-resistant, gently cleanable, PVC free, and printed with GreenGuard Gold. Water resistance and gentle cleanability are practical near a kitchen backsplash where splashes and grease happen.