Scraping off old wallpaper can feel like a monumental task, but with the right approach, removing wallpaper easily is achievable. Don’t just soak and scrape blindly; understand the different wallpaper types and the best methods for each. This guide breaks down the process, so you can tackle it like a pro.
prep your workspace and gather tools
Before you even think about touching the wallpaper, proper preparation is key. This prevents unnecessary mess and protects your home. Cover outlets and light switches with painter’s tape. Lay down drop cloths or plastic sheeting to protect your floors and any nearby furniture. Ensure you have good ventilation, especially if you’ll be using chemical strippers.
Essential tools you’ll need include:
- Putty knife or wallpaper scraper (a 4-inch wide one is versatile)
- Scoring tool (optional, but helpful for vinyl or heavily coated papers)
- Spray bottle or garden sprayer
- Bucket
- Hot water
- Dish soap or a commercial wallpaper remover solution
- Ladder or step stool
- Rags or sponges
- Trash bags
- Protective gear: gloves and eye protection
Having everything ready will make the process much smoother. For a more in-depth look at what you need, check out our guide on how to remove wallpaper effectively.
identify your wallpaper type
The method you use to remove wallpaper depends heavily on its type. Not all wallpaper is created equal, and trying to remove it incorrectly can damage your drywall.
Strippable wallpaper
This is the easiest to remove. It’s designed to be peeled off in large sections, often without water or chemicals. Try lifting a corner with a putty knife. If it pulls away cleanly, you’re in luck! This type is common with modern peel-and-stick options, like those found in our peel and stick wallpaper guide.
Peelable wallpaper
This type has a top layer that peels off, leaving a paper backing adhered to the wall. You’ll need to remove this backing separately using water or a stripper solution.
Vinyl or foil-backed wallpaper
These are typically more durable and harder to remove. They often have a waterproof top layer that prevents water from penetrating. You’ll likely need to score the surface to allow the water or stripper to reach the adhesive.
Traditional paper wallpaper
This is the most common type found in older homes. It usually requires water or a stripper solution and a good amount of scraping. If it’s been up for a long time or painted over, it can be stubborn.
the wet stripping method: for most common wallpapers
This is the go-to method for traditional, peelable, and even some vinyl wallpapers when scoring is effective. The goal is to soften the adhesive so the wallpaper and its backing can be removed.
Step 1: prepare your solution
In a bucket, mix hot water with a small amount of dish soap. A good ratio is about 1 gallon of hot water to a tablespoon of soap. Alternatively, you can use a commercial wallpaper stripper solution, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Some people also swear by fabric softener or vinegar mixed with water, but test a small area first.
Step 2: score the wallpaper (if necessary)
For vinyl, foil-backed, or heavily coated papers, use a scoring tool. This creates tiny perforations that allow the solution to penetrate the wallpaper’s surface and reach the adhesive underneath. Be gentle; you don’t want to gouge the drywall.
Step 3: apply the solution
Using a spray bottle or garden sprayer, generously apply the hot water solution to a manageable section of the wall, about 3-4 feet wide. Start from the top and work your way down. Allow the solution to soak for 10-15 minutes. You want the wallpaper to feel saturated and slightly softened, not just wet.
Step 4: start scraping
Once the solution has soaked in, use your putty knife or wallpaper scraper. Start at a seam or a lifted corner. Hold the scraper at a low angle (around 30 degrees) to avoid damaging the drywall. Gently push the scraper under the wallpaper and peel it away. If it’s not coming off easily, it likely needs more soaking or the solution isn’t penetrating.
Step 5: reapply and repeat
If you encounter stubborn areas or the wallpaper dries out, reapply the hot water solution and let it soak again. Patience is crucial here. Trying to force it will lead to torn paper and damaged walls.
dry stripping: for strippable wallpapers
If you’re lucky enough to have strippable wallpaper, the process is much simpler.
Start at a corner or seam. Use your putty knife to gently lift an edge. Once you have a good grip, pull the wallpaper down slowly and steadily. It should come off in large sheets. If it tears, try to find another starting point or get a better grip on the remaining section.
This method is ideal for newer wallpapers and is often the case with modern decorative papers, such as those from Rifle Paper Co. that offer beautiful patterns like Rifle Paper Co. wallpaper or floral designs similar to those in our flowers on wallpaper post.
dealing with stubborn adhesive residue
Even after the wallpaper is gone, you might be left with a sticky residue. This needs to be cleaned thoroughly before you paint or apply new wallpaper.
Use a sponge or rag dipped in your hot water and soap solution (or a dedicated adhesive remover). Scrub the residue gently. For tougher spots, you might need to let the solution sit for a few minutes. Rinse the wall with clean water and a clean rag to remove any soap or stripper residue. Let the walls dry completely.
what about painted-over wallpaper?
This is a common and frustrating situation. If wallpaper has been painted over, the paint seals the paper and makes it much harder to remove. Your best bet is to:
- Score the wallpaper thoroughly to break the paint seal.
- Apply your hot water or stripper solution generously.
- Let it soak longer than usual, perhaps 20-30 minutes, reapplying as needed.
- Scrape carefully. You may need to use a metal scraper for this.
For very stubborn, painted-over wallpaper, you might consider a steamer. Renting a wallpaper steamer can be effective, but be cautious. Too much steam can damage drywall, especially if it’s already weakened. Always follow the steamer’s instructions and test in an inconspicuous area first. Some of the most durable wallpapers, like those inspired by Yellowstone wallpaper designs, might have been painted over in older installations.
common mistakes and how to avoid them
Removing wallpaper easily requires avoiding pitfalls that can lead to costly repairs.
- Not protecting your floors: Use plenty of drop cloths. Water and adhesive can make a huge mess.
- Using a sharp scraper at the wrong angle: This will gouge your drywall. Keep the angle low and be patient.
- Not letting the solution soak long enough: Rushing the process means more scraping and potential damage. Give the water time to work.
- Using too much water on drywall: While you need water to soften the adhesive, excessive soaking can weaken drywall. Work in manageable sections and don’t let water pool for extended periods.
- Not cleaning off all the residue: Painting over adhesive residue will cause the paint to peel later. Ensure walls are clean and dry.
- Not testing your method: Always test your chosen method in a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t damage the underlying wall.
By understanding these common mistakes, you can make removing wallpaper much easier and ensure your walls are prepped perfectly for their next transformation.
