How about that old wallpaper that’s been collecting dust on the wall for years? It may have been fashionable at one time, but now it’s time to refresh it. Although removing wallpaper sounds like an intimidating process, it can be carried out smoothly with the correct technique. It’s not the most exciting DIY task, but learning how to properly strip off old wallpaper can instantly modernize a room. This guide will aid you in how to Remove Wallpaper from walls and reinvigorate your environment.
Table of Contents
How to Remove Wallpaper from Wall
1. Know Your Wall Type Before Starting
Before you start, it’s important to know what kind of wallpaper, adhesive, and wall surface you’re dealing with. This will guide you in determining the best approach for removing wallpaper from the wall without damaging it. Be especially wary when working with drywall (which is usually gypsum with gray or white paper around it)—too much water or rough scraping can permanently damage the surface. But if your walls are plaster, you are in luck. Plaster is far more durable, so you can use whatever removal method without fear of damaging the wall.
2. Protect Your Floors and Outlets
Before you dive into learning how to remove wallpaper from a wall, make sure you prep your space. And because water will be involved in the process, be sure to protect your floors from moisture and mess. Cover the floors with a plastic painter’s tarp to catch drips and any loose wallpaper. Don’t forget about the electrical outlets — for now, leave the covers off and tape around them to protect them from water damage. After most of the paper is gone, you can gently remove the little nubs that are left around the outlet cover for a professional look.
3. Score the Wallpaper for Better Removal
The first of our best removable wallpaper tips is scoring. The majority of wallpapers require a hot water solution to loosen the glue, however, not all types absorb water quickly—particularly the vinyl wallpapers commonly seen in kitchens and bathrooms. That’s when a wallpaper-scoring tool comes in handy. This inexpensive gadget makes small holes in the outer layer, which can make the solution penetrate to the adhesive below. Apply light pressure and draw the tool over the entire surface. But don’t press too hard, or you’ll damage the drywall or plaster and create more repair work down the line.
4. Using Liquid Removers to Take Off Wallpaper
Liquid removers can be a major help when learning how to remove wallpaper from a wall. These products feature agents that break down the adhesive located behind the wallpaper. To be water-resistant, wallpaper needs to be scored or perforated first. A roller-style scorer makes tiny holes (so the remover seeps through) — just don’t get too heavy-handed, or you’ll ruin the wall behind it. For larger areas, spray on the remover and use a sponge for corners. Allow the solution to soak as recommended. After the glue softens, carefully pull off the wallpaper or use a putty knife to scrape it off.
5. Using a Steamer to Remove Wallpaper
So if you want to know how to remove wallpaper from the wall without damaging it, try a steamer: this method works very well, especially for old, stubborn prints. Fill the steamer tank with water and let it heat up. When steam comes out from the plate, press it against the wallpaper for about 30 seconds to soften the glue. Use smaller sections for better products as well as attachments for edges or tight areas. Once steamed, use an angled-blade tool to gently scrape at the wallpaper — this will keep you from damaging your wall. Always use gloves and safety goggles to prevent steam burns.
6. Using Gel Removers to Take Off Wallpaper
Gel removers can also be a smart choice when learning how to remove wallpaper from a wall. Similar to liquid removers, gels are most effective when the surface of the wallpaper has been perforated, letting the solution seep in and dissolve the adhesive. Aside from the color intensity, the gel formula is ultimately mess-free, with less drip than liquids, making it more accurate. Gels are particularly useful on unprimed drywall or walls installed with clay-based adhesives. Spread the gel on with a spray bottle, roller, or brush and leave it on for 20–30 minutes. Then, gently lift and peel the wallpaper in strips using a scraper.
7. Clean and Repair the Walls After Wallpaper Removal
Once you’ve figured out how to take off wallpaper from the wall, you need to prep your walls for the next step. Start with a sponge (soaked in hot water with a small bit of trisodium phosphate) that you lightly brush over the surface to remove any residual glue or gunk. When clean and towel-dry the area well. Check the wall for minor imperfections — small holes, scratches or gouges. Fill these in and sand smooth with a sandable filler or spackle for an even surface. Whether you are going to paint or re-wallpaper, proper wall preparation is the key to achieving the best results.
For a less abrasive experience next time, apply two coats of primer on a new, unsealed wallboard, creating a strippable surface. If you’re stripping wallpaper, don’t destroy the plasterboard — you can use a spatula with rounded edges to avoid gouging. If hot water fails, use a wallpaper scrubber so moisture can penetrate the adhesive. A steamer, used with a scour for stubborn wallpaper, is effective, but don’t overheat the wall. You can also try using a wallpaper stripper or mix fabric softener with hot water. Scrub off any remaining adhesive with a sponge. With these tips, you’ll learn how to safely and effectively remove wallpaper from a wall.
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