Tips and Tricks for Removing Old Wallpaper
Removing old wallpaper may not be the most glamorous home project, but it can be surprisingly satisfying once you learn how to do it right. Whether you’re dealing with layers of stubborn wallpaper or just a single outdated pattern, there’s a method for every situation. Here’s how to tackle it with confidence—and maybe even a bit of fun.
Preparation
Before you start, remove outlet covers and light switch plates, and push furniture away from the wall. Lay down drop cloths or plastic sheets to protect your floors—wallpaper removal can get messy. You’ll also want to get your tools ready, including a putty knife, a scoring tool, and a spray bottle or steamer.
The Scrape Method
Start simple. If you’re lucky, you might be able to peel up a corner of the wallpaper and pull off large sections at a time. If it resists or tears easily, make your own wallpaper removal solution to speed things up.
Fill a spray bottle with equal parts hot water and your choice of vinegar or fabric softener. Saturate the wallpaper and wait for 15 to 20 minutes. The moisture softens the glue, allowing you to peel or scrape the paper off. If it still resists your efforts, gently roll a scoring tool over the wallpaper to create tiny holes, which allow your solution to soak in and loosen the adhesive underneath.
Steam Removal of Wallpaper
If you’re up against more stubborn wallpaper or multiple layers that have been there for decades, a steamer is your best friend. Fill it with water, heat it up, and hold the steamer plate against the wallpaper for about 15 seconds. The heat will soften the adhesive, making it easier to scrape off the paper in sections. This method is highly effective but slow, so be patient.
Clean Up and Final Touches
After the wallpaper is off, you’ll likely see some adhesive residue left behind. You must clean this up before painting or applying new wallpaper. A sponge dipped in warm, soapy water is your best bet for scrubbing away the leftover glue. Be thorough—leaving adhesive behind can lead to bumps or peeling if you paint over it.
Once the walls are clean and dry, check for gouges or scratches that may have occurred during wallpaper removal. Patch these up with joint compound, let it dry, and sand it smooth. Now you’re ready to paint or hang new wallpaper on the clean, smooth surface.