Peel and stick wallpaper is designed for easy application and removal, but that doesn’t mean it always comes off cleanly without a little help. The ease of removal, or how easy it is to remove peel and stick wallpaper, depends heavily on the wall surface, the quality of the wallpaper, and the adhesive used. Some wallpapers adhere so well that they can pull off paint or even drywall paper if not removed correctly. Here’s how to approach removal to keep your walls looking pristine.
Prepare your tools and the room
Before you start peeling, gather your supplies. You’ll likely need a utility knife or a putty knife, a spray bottle filled with warm water (sometimes with a drop of dish soap or a vinegar solution), a heat gun or hairdryer, a plastic scraper or squeegee, and clean cloths. For larger rooms or stubborn sections, consider a handheld steamer. Remove any furniture or wall decor from the immediate area and lay down drop cloths to protect your flooring from any moisture or debris.
Test a small, inconspicuous area
This is crucial. Find a spot, perhaps behind a piece of furniture or in a corner, and try to peel back a small section. If it comes off easily, you’re likely in good shape. If the paint starts to lift or the paper tears, you know you’ll need a more cautious approach. This test will also help you determine if your walls were properly primed before the wallpaper was applied. Unprimed drywall or walls with low-quality paint are much more susceptible to damage.
Start peeling from a corner
Gently lift a corner of the wallpaper, ideally starting at the top of the wall. Use your fingernail or the edge of a putty knife to get under the edge. Once you have a good grip, begin to pull the wallpaper down slowly and steadily. Aim for a 45-degree angle, pulling parallel to the wall rather than straight out. If the wallpaper begins to tear, stop and try to start from a different section or use a heat source.
Apply heat for stubborn sections
For areas where the adhesive is particularly strong, or if the wallpaper is old and brittle, heat can be your best friend. Use a heat gun on a low setting or a hairdryer. Hold it a few inches away from the wallpaper and move it back and forth for about 30 seconds to warm the adhesive. The heat softens the glue, making it more pliable and easier to peel. Be careful not to overheat one spot, as this could damage the paint or drywall underneath.
Use warm water or a solution for tougher adhesives
If heat alone isn’t enough, or if you prefer a less intense method, warm water can help. Lightly spray a section of the wallpaper with warm water (or a solution of 1 part white vinegar to 2 parts warm water). Let it soak for a few minutes to allow the moisture to penetrate the paper and loosen the adhesive. You can also use a damp cloth or sponge. Avoid oversaturating the wall, especially if it’s drywall, as excessive moisture can cause damage.
Steaming for very stubborn wallpaper
For extremely difficult situations, a wallpaper steamer can be very effective. Renting one is usually cost-effective. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Hold the steamer plate against a section of the wallpaper for 30-60 seconds, allowing the steam to loosen the adhesive. Then, try to peel or scrape the wallpaper away. Be extremely cautious with steamers, as excessive heat and moisture can damage drywall and potentially cause mold growth if not managed properly.
Scrape and clean residue
After the main sections of wallpaper are removed, you’ll likely have some adhesive residue left on the walls. This is normal. Use your plastic scraper or putty knife to gently scrape away any remaining glue. You can also use a sponge with warm, soapy water or a dedicated adhesive remover for tougher spots. For very sticky residue, sometimes a bit more heat can help lift it, allowing you to scrape it off more easily.
Once all the wallpaper and residue are gone, wipe down the walls with a clean, damp cloth to remove any lingering solution or dust. Allow the walls to dry completely. If you’re planning to paint or re-wallpaper, ensure the walls are smooth and clean. You might need to fill any small gouges or imperfections with spackling paste and sand them smooth.
When to call a professional
While removing peel and stick wallpaper is a common DIY task, there are instances where professional help might be warranted. If you have very old, delicate walls, or if you’ve tried the above methods and are still encountering significant damage, a professional wallpaper removal service can save you time and potential repair costs. They have specialized tools and experience to handle challenging removals.
For those looking to explore stylish options before the removal stage, discover the best high-quality peel and stick wallpaper for your home. If you’re just starting and want to see how easy it is to transform a space, check out our guide on transforming your space with easy peel and stick wallpaper.