Here’s What You Need to Know About Panelling In The Bathroom.
MDF wall panelling has become a go-to for adding charm and texture to our homes, from hallways to bedrooms, and now, more and more, bathrooms. If you love the look of panelling and you’re wondering whether it’s suitable for a steamy bathroom environment, the good news is: yes, you can use MDF panelling in a bathroom.
But.. and it’s a big but… it needs to be the right kind.
Why MDF Panelling Is So Popular Right Now?
Panelling is everywhere at the moment, and for good reason. It adds warmth, character, and a sense of structure to even the plainest of walls. In bathrooms, it can be a brilliant way to bring in a little texture and style, especially if you’re going for a traditional or spa-like feel.
MDF (medium-density fibreboard) is one of the most common materials for panelling because it’s smooth, easy to install, and much more affordable than solid wood. It can be painted in any colour, and works beautifully with popular styles like tongue and groove or shaker-style boards.
Not All MDF Is Made Equal
While MDF might work a treat in your living room, standard MDF doesn’t cope well with moisture. Bathrooms are humid spaces; steam from showers, splashes from baths, and condensation all come into play. If regular MDF gets damp, it can swell, warp or even start to fall apart.
That’s where moisture-resistant MDF (often called MR MDF) comes in. It looks and works much like regular MDF but is specially designed to handle humidity. You’ll usually notice it has a slight greenish tint – that’s a sign it’s been treated with a water-repelling resin during manufacturing.
Tips for Using MDF Panelling in a Bathroom
If you’re planning to add panelling to your bathroom walls, here are a few important things to remember:
1. Use Moisture-Resistant MDF Only
This is the non-negotiable. MR MDF is designed to cope with steam and general moisture in the air, but it’s still not suitable for areas that get properly wet, like inside a shower.
2. Prime, Paint and Seal It Well
Even moisture-resistant boards need protection. Use a good-quality MDF primer, and follow up with a tough bathroom paint, something that can handle steam without peeling or bubbling. Don’t forget to seal all the edges and joins properly with caulk or filler before painting.
3. Keep It Away from Splash Zones
MR MDF is fine for walls behind sinks or above baths, as long as it’s well protected. But if it’s going to get soaked regularly, like near a walk-in shower, you’re better off sticking to tiles or waterproof panels in those areas.
4. Make Sure the Room’s Well Ventilated
This is true for any bathroom. A good extractor fan or openable window helps reduce moisture build-up and keeps your panelling looking good for longer.
Opting For MR MDF Panels
So yes, you can use MDF panelling in a bathroom, and it can look brilliant. Just make sure you’re using moisture-resistant MDF, and that it’s properly sealed and painted to keep it safe from moisture.
Whether you’re creating a calm, country-style cloakroom or adding a bit of interest to a minimalist en-suite, panelling can give your bathroom a touch of texture and a lot of character, all without blowing the budget.
Check out some of our other blogs here on renovating and styling your bathroom to match your lifestyle and aesthetics.