Methods of Wallpaper Removal

Prepping Your Wallpaper

• Make sure your wallpaper is not vinyl. If it is, try to pull off the first layer because the solutions will not penetrate it to reach the wallpaper glue. If your wallpaper is vinyl and very thick, and you cannot remove the first layer, score it with a wallpaper scoring tool or a utility knife. Only use the utility knife if you can score deep enough without damaging the wall surface behind the wallpaper. Score the entire surface so that the solution will evenly soak the wallpaper backing. Use either a bucket and sponge or a spray bottle to apply the water or solutions to the wall.

Commercial Products

• There are many commercially available wallpaper removal solutions. These work by soaking through the wallpaper to chemically react with and break down the wallpaper adhesive. The wallpaper is then easy to peel off of the walls. Carefully follow the instructions on how to apply the wallpaper removal solution to your walls.

Steamers

• Hot steam is used to melt away the wallpaper adhesive. Wear protective gloves when handling the steamer. Pull off the wallpaper as you pass the steamer over sections of the wallpaper. Continue until all of the wallpaper is removed.

Homemade Solutions

• Start by using plain hot water to soak into and loosen the wallpaper. Allow the hot water to sit for 15 minutes, then wet it again. Use a wallpaper scraper to remove the wallpaper. For some wallpaper, hot water is enough to break down the adhesive.

  If you need a stronger alternative to plain hot water, make a solution of one part vinegar and one part very warm water. The acetic acid in the vinegar will dissolve the adhesive, and the water will help to soak the paper backing. Apply to the wall and allow it to sit for 15 to 20 minutes before scraping the wallpaper off the wall.

  A vinegar, baking soda and water solution will also help to release the adhesive bond between the wallpaper and the wall. Add 1/2 cup baking soda to 1 qt. of water, then add 1 cup of vinegar. Keep stirring the mixture as it bubbles over. Once it settles, pour into a spray bottle or use directly from the bucket. Again, saturate the wallpaper, allow it to soak in for about 15 minutes, then scrape the wallpaper away.

  Fabric softener and water is another homemade solution for removing wallpaper. The fabric softener softens both the paper and adhesive, breaking down its bond to the wall. Add 1 cup of fabric softener to 4 cups of warm water. Wash or spray onto the walls, making sure to saturate the wallpaper. Let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes before scraping the wallpaper off the wall.

Cleaning Up

• Clean the walls with soap and water, or vinegar and water, once all of the wallpaper is removed. You may have to wash the walls more than once if a lot of adhesive residue is still on the walls. Allow the wall time to dry before applying your new wall finish.