Removing wallpaper doesn’t have to be a nightmare. With the right approach, you can strip old wallpaper efficiently without damaging your walls. Whether you’re dealing with stubborn glue, multiple layers, or delicate drywall, this guide covers every possible scenario.

We’ll walk you through step-by-step methods, expert tips, and common mistakes to avoid. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to remove wallpaper like a pro—without frustration or wasted effort.

Why Should You Remove Old Wallpaper?

Wallpaper can look great, but over time, it:

Peels, fades, or becomes outdated
Traps moisture, leading to mold or wall damage
Makes a room feel dated or dark

Removing it gives you a fresh start—whether you want to paint, install new wallpaper, or leave clean, smooth walls.

Essential Tools for Wallpaper Removal

Before you start, gather these supplies:
✅ Wallpaper scraper (plastic or metal) – For peeling off paper
✅ Spray bottle or garden sprayer – For applying water or solutions
✅ Wallpaper steamer (optional) – For tough, glued-on wallpaper
✅ Fabric softener or vinegar – Helps break down adhesive
✅ Scoring tool – Pokes holes for better solution penetration
✅ Drop cloths – Protects floors from water and debris
✅ Sponge & bucket – For cleaning glue residue
✅ Ladder – For reaching high areas
✅ Safety gear (gloves, goggles) – Protects from chemicals and dust

Do you want to know How to Open a Bottle Without an Opener?

Step-by-Step: How to Remove Wallpaper

1. Prepare the Room

Move furniture out or cover it with plastic.
Lay down drop cloths to catch falling paper and glue.
Turn off electricity if working near outlets (safety first!).

2. Test a Small Section

Peel a corner to see if the wallpaper comes off dry or needs moisture.
If it resists, you’ll need water, steam, or a removal solution.

3. Remove the Top Layer (If It’s Vinyl Wallpaper)

Some wallpapers have a removable top layer. Peel it off first, then work on the backing.

4. Score the Wallpaper (For Stubborn Types)

Use a scoring tool to create small holes.
This helps water or solution penetrate the glue.

5. Apply a Wallpaper Removal Solution

Option 1: Warm Water & Dish Soap – Simple and effective.
Option 2: Fabric Softener Mix – 1 part softener + 3 parts hot water.
Option 3: Vinegar Solution – Equal parts vinegar and water.

Spray generously and let it soak for 10-15 minutes before scraping.

6. Scrape Off the Wallpaper

Use a putty knife or scraper at a 30-degree angle to avoid gouging walls.
Work in small sections (3×3 feet) for better control.

7. Remove Leftover Glue

Mix warm water with a little vinegar and scrub with a sponge.
Rinse with clean water and let dry.

8. Repair Wall Damage (If Needed)

Fill holes or scratches with spackle.
Sand smooth once dry.
Apply primer before painting or re-papering.

Different Methods for Different Wallpaper Types

1. How to Remove Wallpaper with a Steamer

Best for: Thick, stubborn wallpaper

Fill the steamer and let it heat.
Hold the steamer plate against the wallpaper for 15-30 seconds.
Scrape off while warm.
⚠️ Warning: Over-steaming can damage drywall!

2. How to Remove Wallpaper from Drywall

Drywall is delicate—avoid soaking it too much.

Use a plastic scraper (less risk of damage).
Work gently to avoid gouging.
Sand lightly after removal if needed.

3. How to Remove Wallpaper Glue Residue

Even after scraping, glue may remain.

Mix equal parts vinegar & water, scrub, then rinse.
For heavy residue, use a commercial adhesive remover.

4. How to Remove Wallpaper Borders

Borders are often stuck tighter.

Score the border first.
Apply warm water or fabric softener mix.
Peel slowly to avoid wall damage.

5. How to Remove Multiple Layers of Wallpaper

Remove one layer at a time.
Reapply solution between layers.
Be patient—rushing can damage walls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Not testing a small area first – Some wallpapers peel easily; others need extra help.
❌ Using too much water on drywall – Can weaken the wall.
❌ Scraping too hard – Leads to gouges and repairs.
❌ Skipping glue removal – New paint or wallpaper won’t stick properly.

Understanding Your Wallpaper Type

Before grabbing tools, identify what you’re dealing with:

1. Traditional Wallpaper

Porous paper with water-soluble glue
Requires soaking for removal
Common in homes built before 2000

2. Vinyl Wallpaper

Plastic-coated surface with paper backing
Top layer often peels off first
Backing needs separate removal

3. Peelable Wallpaper

Modern “renter-friendly” types
Should come off in full sheets
May leave minimal residue

4. Grasscloth & Textured Wallpaper

Natural fibers make removal tricky
Often requires steaming
Higher risk of wall damage

Advanced Removal Techniques

1. The Double-Soak Method (For Stubborn Paper)

First application: Spray with warm water
Wait 5 minutes
Second application: Spray with fabric softener solution
Wait 10 minutes before scraping

Pro Tip: Add 1 cup white vinegar per gallon for extra adhesive breakdown

2. The Paper Towel Trick

Soak paper towels in removal solution
Press firmly against wallpaper
Cover with plastic wrap to prevent drying
Leave for 30+ minutes

3. Infrared Removal (Professional Method)

Uses heat lamps to loosen adhesive
Prevents water damage to drywall
Rentable from specialty tool stores

Dealing With Problem Areas

1. Removing Wallpaper From Corners

Use a narrow 1″ putty knife
Spray vertical strokes into the corner seam
Work top-to-bottom in small sections

2. Handling Plaster Walls

Avoid excessive water (can damage plaster)
Use a steamer on low setting
Repair cracks with setting-type joint compound

3. When Wallpaper Was Painted Over

Score through paint layer with a razor scraper
Apply DIF wallpaper remover (specifically for painted paper)
Use a stiff-bristle brush to work solution in

Post-Removal Wall Prep

1. Assessing Wall Damage

Check for:
- Gouges deeper than 1/8″
- Loose drywall paper
- Mold or water stains

2. Professional-Grade Repair Techniques

For torn drywall paper: Seal with oil-based primer
Deep grooves: Use setting-type compound
Texture matching: Practice on scrap drywall first

3. The Right Primer for Your Surface

Wall Condition	Recommended Primer
Glue residue	Oil-based (KILZ Original)
New drywall	PVA drywall primer
Stains	Shellac-based (BIN)

When to Call a Professional

Consider hiring help if:

You have multiple wallpaper layers (3+)
Walls show signs of structural damage
Dealing with specialty surfaces (brick, paneling)
Limited time for proper wall prep

Money-Saving Tips

Rent tools instead of buying (steamers $35/day)
Use dollar store fabric softener as remover
Repurpose old credit cards as scrapers
Save drop cloths for future projects

Seasonal Considerations

Summer Removal: Works faster but glue dries quickly
Winter Removal: Add 50% more soaking time in cold rooms
Humid Climates: Run dehumidifier to prevent mold

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

1. What’s the fastest way to remove wallpaper?

A steamer works fastest for thick wallpaper, but fabric softener mix is great for most cases.

2. Does vinegar really remove wallpaper glue?

Yes! Mix equal parts vinegar and water, spray, let sit, then scrub.

3. Can I remove wallpaper without a steamer?

Absolutely—hot water, fabric softener, or vinegar solutions work well.

4. How long does wallpaper removal take?

Depends on room size, but typically 2-6 hours.

5. Will removing wallpaper damage my walls?

It can if you scrape too hard or over-wet drywall. Be gentle!

6. Should I prime walls after removing wallpaper?

Yes! Primer seals glue residue and helps paint adhere better.

7. Can I paint over wallpaper instead of removing it?

Not recommended—paint may peel, and seams will show. Remove it first.

8. Why won’t my wallpaper come off?

Old glue or multiple layers may need extra soaking or steaming.

Final Tips for Success

✔ Work in small sections – Prevents the wall from drying out before scraping.
✔ Keep tools handy – Saves time and frustration.
✔ Be patient – Some wallpapers take longer to loosen.

Now you’re ready to tackle wallpaper removal like a pro! Follow these steps, and your walls will be smooth, clean, and ready for a fresh new look.