How to Remove Old Wallpaper
Old wallpaper makes a room look dull. To update your space, you need to take it down first. Many people think this is hard, but it is not. With simple tools and clear steps, anyone can do it. This Removing Wallpaper Guide gives you practical methods. For extra tips, check the installation guides.
Prepare the Room and Tools
Start by moving furniture to the center of the room. Cover it with plastic. Protect the floor with drop cloths. Tape outlets and switches. Gather tools before you begin:
- bucket with warm water or a spray bottle, or a steamer
- scraper or putty knife, plus a utility knife
- sponge and rags
- tape and plastic covers
Preparation saves time and keeps your walls safe.
Identify the Wallpaper Type
Test a corner with a knife. Pull slowly. If the strip comes off in large pieces, it is strippable wallpaper. Vinyl and non-woven types often peel easily. Paper wallpaper with paste holds tighter. Peel and stick wallpaper comes off clean but needs a smooth wall. Knowing the type helps you pick the right method. If you want to know How to Remove Old Wallpaper from different surfaces, start with this simple test.
Soften the Adhesive and Remove the Paper
Mix warm water with a small drop of dish soap. Spray a section of the wall. Wait five to ten minutes. The water needs time to loosen the paste. Scrape gently at the seams. Work on small areas. Repeat until the wall is clear.
If you see two layers, treat them one at a time. Many walls have a decorative top layer and a paper backing. Soak the top until it releases. Then spray the backing again and scrape slowly. For very stubborn wallpaper, use a steamer. Hot steam goes deep into the paste and makes it soft. Wear gloves. Open windows for ventilation.
Mistakes to Avoid
Some mistakes create more work later:
- not soaking long enough
- scraping too hard and damaging drywall
- leaving glue on the wall
- painting or hanging new wallpaper before the wall is dry
Work slowly. Focus on one section at a time.
Clean, Repair, and Prime
Wash the wall with clean water and a sponge. Rinse more than once if needed. Let it dry. Check for cracks or gouges. Fill them with filler. Sand until smooth. Wipe away dust.
Apply primer to seal the wall. Choose a water-based primer for drywall or a stronger one if the wall had heavy paste. Wait until it dries fully. This may take several hours. Do not rush. Smooth and primed walls give the best base for paint or wallpaper.
If you plan to use peel and stick wallpaper, a flat wall helps it stick well. You can also look at our materials to choose the right finish for your rooms.
Good preparation makes everything easier. Now you know the steps to remove old wallpaper. Protect the space. Soften the paste. Lift the paper. Clean the wall. Repair defects. Prime the surface. After this, your new finish will look smooth and last longer. Careful work at this stage also saves money and time when you decorate again. A few extra hours now will help your new design stay beautiful for years.