Choosing the right wall art for your bathroom deserves more care than for the rest of the house. Bathrooms can be particularly harsh environments for prints, and it’s easy to see why. High humidity and condensation from steam can cause material damage and encourage mould growth.

If you thought a simple frame would make it easier, unfortunately, it doesn’t work that way. Moisture can collect along the frame edges, and mould can form behind the glass, making it difficult to remove. 

Even if you can’t completely control the environment, you can still proactively avoid damage and reduce risk by choosing bathroom wall art that's resistant to humidity. 

Before Bathroom Prints, Think Smart About Positioning

One of the most underrated considerations when decorating walls is where to hang your prints. Positioning matters more than you might think when hanging bathroom wall art. The truth is, the longevity of your bathroom prints depends on how well your bathroom ventilates. A good ventilation system or an extractor fan can help reduce moisture and condensation. 

If your bathroom doesn’t have a ventilation system, opening a window after hot showers can also help moisture escape, depending on the room's overall ventilation. It’s also sensible to keep your prints away from the taps and the bath or shower.

Positioning Suggestions for Your Bathroom Wall Art

That said, there are a couple of potentially lower-risk positions depending on the bathroom layout:

• Above the toilet: depending on your bathroom layout, this placement may reduce the risk of direct splashes.

• Opposite the mirror: usually, condensation can form on mirrors. Opposite the mirror can work well if that position is also away from the bath, shower and other direct splash zones. You can also see its reflection while using the sink.

Mindfully Choose Your Artwork Material

If you don’t already have bathroom prints and need to buy some, make sure you either choose a piece made with moisture-resistant materials or one that’s not an original. You might want your pieces to last longer than a single shower. 

Acrylic and Aluminium Prints: Why They Work Well in Humid Spaces

Acrylic and aluminium prints are generally moisture-resistant; hence, their non-porous surfaces can make them less susceptible to moisture damage.

Acrylic prints create a glossy, gallery-like look and a sense that the subjects are part of your daily bathroom routine. Moreover, their solid plastic surface replaces the need for glass, reducing the risk of condensation and damage.

Aluminium can work as another moisture-resistant material. In contrast with other metals, it handles humid conditions better than many traditional print materials. It is also easy to clean and gives your bathroom a minimalist, modern, and elegant appearance, matching the silver-coloured details of baths and taps. 

The Advantages of Choosing Sealed Canvas for Your Bathroom

Sealed canvases resist steam damage more effectively than regular canvases. The protective layer of varnish acts as a moisture barrier, helping reduce moisture absorption into the canvas fibres. It can help reduce the risk of moisture-related damage and preserve the appearance of bathroom prints.

Make sure you seal the back of your canvas too. It doesn’t have to be a detailed operation, but you can either ask a professional or do it yourself. Check the artwork manufacturer's care instructions or ask a professional which protective coating is suitable before applying anything to protect the entire piece from water and steam.

The Durability of Vinyl Decals and Resin Panels

Vinyl can be a practical option for bathrooms, as it is easy to clean and resistant to water and temperature fluctuations.

Bathroom-suitable vinyl decals typically use materials that resist peeling and bubbling, even in humid environments. The surface does not absorb water and can adhere to many suitable surfaces.

Resin panels are equally moisture-resistant and are easy to install. Their non-porous surfaces are generally easier to clean and don’t absorb moisture like paper-based materials.

What to Avoid in Your Bathroom Decor

Some art pieces should be avoided for your bathroom wall art, regardless of how beautiful they are. Here’s a list of wall art items you might want to hang somewhere else:

• Unsealed or untreated paper prints: untreated paper is particularly vulnerable to prolonged exposure to steam and moisture.

• Original or valuable wooden or paper pieces: wood and paper can absorb moisture, making valuable pieces particularly unsuitable for humid environments. Fungi and mould might appear after prolonged exposure to humidity.

• Unsealed wooden frames: regardless of their importance or financial value, consider sealing them to protect against moisture.

Your studio and your bedroom or living room are more suitable locations for items made from fragile materials. Make sure you hang them where they are safer and get the visibility their value deserves.

So, What Wall Art Works Best in a Bathroom?

To conclude, avoiding water-absorbing or delicate materials in your bathroom is a general practice that helps your pieces last longer. Your bathroom deserves just as much attention as the rest of your home. You simply need to choose materials and positions with moisture in mind, considering the damaging effects of steam and water.

To avoid damage and mould growth, opt to seal your pieces or buy moisture-resistant ones. Your bathroom can still make an impression on your guests, and you’ll be able to enjoy a stylish bathroom without worrying as much about moisture damaging the artwork.

At The House Outfit, we have plenty of bathroom prints for you to choose from. Choose from our range of wall prints, black-and-white, abstract and minimal, and pick your favourite frame. Never leave your bathroom walls naked.