Removing wallpaper takes effort. You face glue, layers, and old paper that won’t budge. Many walls hide surprises under the surface. Some have paint. Others have plaster or drywall. Each reacts differently to moisture and scraping.
A wrong move can tear the wall or leave deep marks. That’s why you must follow the right steps. This guide shows how to remove wallpaper the smart way. It breaks down four simple methods. Each one targets a different type of wallpaper and wall condition.
Steam loosens thick or stubborn paper. Vinegar or fabric softener helps with light or temporary wallpaper. Liquid remover works on vinyl. Gel sticks longer and helps when you need more time.
You don’t need fancy tools. You only need a putty knife, some household items, and care. With the right approach, you avoid damage. You also save time and money.
This guide makes the process clear. You learn what to do, how to do it, and what to avoid. Follow each method step by step. You will get clean, smooth walls—ready for paint, new wallpaper, or a fresh design.
Pick the Right Method
Each wallpaper type needs a different solution. Choose what fits your wall:
Steamer removes old or stubborn wallpaper. It works well on plaster.
Vinegar or fabric softener helps with temporary or peelable wallpaper. It suits people avoiding harsh chemicals.
Liquid remover handles vinyl wallpaper, common in bathrooms.
Gel remover sticks to walls longer and breaks down glue over time.
Prepare Before You Start
Wallpaper removal creates mess fast. Glue, water, and paper scraps can ruin floors and furniture. You must protect your space before the job begins.
Cover the floor with thick towels, plastic sheets, or flattened cardboard. Tape the edges down to stop slips and leaks. Use extra layers near the baseboards where water collects.
Clear the walls completely. Take down all frames, mirrors, and shelves. Pull out nails or hooks to prevent damage when scraping.
Unscrew and remove all outlet covers and switch plates. This step stops liquid from seeping into electrical parts. It also gives you full access to every inch of wallpaper.
Move small furniture out of the room. Cover large pieces with plastic or old sheets. Keep the space open so you can work safely and without delay.
Safety Tips
Some safety risks come with wallpaper removal. You must stay alert, especially in older homes.
Lead paint poses a serious danger. Homes built before 1978 may have lead under the wallpaper. Scraping or steaming can release toxic dust. Lead harms both children and adults. It affects the brain, kidneys, and nervous system.
If you suspect lead paint, take no chances. Wear an N95 mask to block dust. Keep windows open to improve airflow. Never dry-scrape or sand the wall.
Steamers also carry risks. The steam plate and hose get extremely hot. Accidental contact can burn your skin. Always unplug the steamer after use. Wait until it cools fully before refilling with water. Pressure buildup during refill can cause scalding if the tool is still hot.
Use gloves when working with hot tool or liquid remover. Wear safety goggle to protect your eyes from splashes. Take your time. Work smart and stay safe from start to finish.
Tools and Supplies
Steamer Method
Wallpaper steamer
Putty knife
Scoring tool
Sponge
Vinegar or Fabric Softener Method
Spray bottle
Putty knife
Vinegar or fabric softener
Liquid Remover Method
Wallpaper stripper
Scoring tool
Putty knife
Gel Remover Method
Gel-based remover
Scoring tool
Putty knife
Method 1: Use a Steamer
Step 1: Prepare the Steamer
Fill it with water. Plug it in. Wait for full steam.
Step 2: Apply Steam
Place the plate on wallpaper. Hold for 20 seconds. Set the steamer aside.
Step 3: Peel the Paper
Scrape with a putty knife. Keep steaming and peeling section by section.
Step 4: Clean the Wall
Re-steam if needed. Scrape leftover glue. Wipe the wall with a sponge.
Pro Tip: Score tough spots before steaming. This lets steam reach the glue faster.
Method 2: Use Vinegar or Fabric Softener
Step 1: Make the Mix
Use equal parts water and vinegar. Or mix three parts water with one part fabric softener.
Step 2: Spray the Wall
Soak the wallpaper with the spray. Let it loosen.
Step 3: Remove the Paper
Scrape off the soaked paper. Repeat if needed.
Method 3: Use Liquid Remover
Step 1: Spray the Remover
Coat a small section. Wait five minutes.
Step 2: Lift the Paper
Slide the knife under the edge. Pull the paper gently.
Pro Tip: Score vinyl wallpaper before spraying. The liquid works better that way.
Method 4: Use Gel Remover
Step 1: Apply the Gel
Brush or roll the gel on the wallpaper. Score the surface first if needed.
Step 2: Wait and Remove
Let it sit for 20 minutes. Then lift the wallpaper with your knife.
Extra Tips
These small tips can save you time and protect your walls.
Use steamers only on plaster walls. Drywall soaks in moisture fast and breaks down under heat. Steaming drywall causes bubbles, soft spots, or even holes.
Keep your steam time short. Hold the steamer on each section for no more than 30 seconds. Longer exposure may damage the surface or loosen parts of the wall underneath.
Always control your scraping. Slide the putty knife slowly under the wallpaper. Apply light pressure. Sharp or fast movements can gouge the wall and leave deep marks.
Choose the right tool. Plastic knives work better on soft walls. They flex slightly and reduce the chance of damage. Metal knives are sharper but less forgiving.
Work in small areas. Focus on one section at a time. Clean each part before moving on. This approach keeps the process clean, steady, and safe.
Common Questions
What removes wallpaper fastest?
A steamer works best. Hold it on the wallpaper. Then scrape and lift.
Is wallpaper removal easy?
It takes time, but anyone can do it with patience and the right tools.
How do pros handle it?
They score the paper, steam it, and peel it clean.
Can I add new wallpaper on top of old?
That saves time, but it’s not ideal. Removing old wallpaper gives better results.
Final Words
Wallpaper removal takes time, but it’s worth the effort. Clean walls change the whole look of a room. They let you paint, decorate, or hang new wallpaper without problems. Damaged walls or leftover glue only make future work harder.
Start with the method that fits your wall. Steam works best on thick, old paper or plaster. Vinegar or fabric softener helps if you want a chemical-free option. Liquid remover is strong and cuts through vinyl. Gel remover sticks longer and softens glue without drying fast.
Never skip steps. Prepare your space. Lay down covers. Move furniture. Take off outlet covers. This makes the job safer and cleaner.
Use the right tools. Don’t force anything. Scrape gently. Keep your hands safe. Protect your eyes and lungs. Always let the steamer cool before touching or refilling it.
Work in small zones. Clean each spot fully before starting the next one. Keep checking the wall as you go. Watch for soft areas, holes, or bubbles. If you see damage, stop and fix it right away.
Once the wallpaper is gone, take a step back. Your walls should look smooth and clear. Wipe them down. Let them dry. Now you can paint, paper, or leave them bare.
This is your chance to refresh your space. Clean walls open the door to a new style. Every project starts with a blank surface. Removing old wallpaper is your first step. Do it the right way. Take your time. Finish strong. Your home will feel new again.