How to Remove Wallpaper: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

Removing wallpaper can seem like a difficult home project, especially when the paper is old, stuck, or covering drywall. But with the right tools and method, most homeowners can handle the job themselves.

The key is to identify the wallpaper before you start. Peelable wallpaper may come off dry, while traditional paper or vinyl wallpaper may need warm water, wallpaper remover, or steam. Working slowly also helps protect the wall underneath.

What Is the Easiest Way to Remove Wallpaper?

The easiest way to remove wallpaper depends on the type of wallpaper and the wall underneath. Start by testing a small corner to see if the paper peels away. If it does not, score the surface and use warm water or wallpaper remover to soften the adhesive. For very stubborn wallpaper, a wallpaper steamer can help. Work in small sections, scrape gently, remove all wallpaper glue, and repair the wall before painting or adding new wallpaper.

How Do You Remove Wallpaper?

Removing wallpaper is easiest when you follow a simple process instead of pulling at the paper randomly.

1. Identify the wallpaper type.
2. Prepare the room.
3. Protect the floor and electrical outlets.
4. Test a small section.
5. Peel or score the wallpaper.
6. Apply warm water or wallpaper remover when needed.
7. Let the adhesive soften.
8. Peel and scrape the wallpaper.
9. Remove leftover wallpaper glue.
10. Repair and prepare the wall.

The best method depends on whether you have peel-and-stick wallpaper, peelable wallpaper, vinyl wallpaper, or traditional paper wallpaper.

Do not start by soaking the whole wall. Test a small area first. This helps you find the safest method and reduces the chance of damaging drywall or plaster.

What Type of Wallpaper Do You Have?

Before you start wallpaper removal, find out what you are working with. Different wallpaper types need different methods.

Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper

Peel-and-stick wallpaper is usually the easiest to remove. Start at a corner or seam and slowly pull the wallpaper away from the wall.

Do not pull too fast. If the wall surface starts coming away with the paper, stop and use less force.

Peelable or Strippable Wallpaper

Some wallpaper is designed to peel away from the wall. Lift a corner with a putty knife and gently pull the paper.

If the top layer comes away but a paper backing stays behind, you will need to remove that backing separately.

Vinyl Wallpaper

Vinyl wallpaper can be harder to remove because its surface may stop water from reaching the wallpaper adhesive.

You may need to use a wallpaper scoring tool first. Small holes allow the removal solution to reach the adhesive underneath.

Traditional Paper Wallpaper

Traditional paper wallpaper often responds well to warm water or wallpaper remover. After the adhesive softens, you can peel and scrape the paper away.

Multiple Layers

Older walls may have several layers of wallpaper. If you find one layer underneath another, do not try to remove everything with force.

Work through the layers one at a time. A wallpaper steamer may help when several layers are strongly attached.

What Tools Do You Need to Remove Wallpaper?

You do not need a large collection of tools for most wallpaper removal projects.

Keep these items nearby:

• Wallpaper scoring tool
• Putty knife
• Wallpaper scraper
• Spray bottle
• Bucket
• Sponge
• Warm water
• Wallpaper remover
• Drop cloth
• Painter's tape
• Gloves
• Safety glasses
• Sandpaper
• Joint compound or spackling compound
• Primer

A putty knife helps lift loose edges. A wallpaper scraper helps remove paper and softened adhesive. A scoring tool is useful when water or wallpaper remover cannot reach the adhesive.

If you plan to use a wallpaper steamer, follow the instructions for that specific tool.

How Should You Prepare the Room Before Removing Wallpaper?

Good preparation makes the job easier and helps prevent damage.

First, move furniture away from the wall. Remove unnecessary items from the room so you have enough space to work.

If the room needs more preparation, see our guide on how to declutter your home.

Place a drop cloth on the floor. Use painter's tape to hold it in place if needed.

Remove pictures, shelves, wall decorations, and other items attached to the wall.

You should also protect electrical outlets and switches from water. Never spray water directly around electrical components.

Open a window or improve ventilation if you are using wallpaper remover or another cleaning solution.

Once the room is ready, start with a small test area.

How Do You Remove Peelable or Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper?

If your wallpaper is peelable, start with the easiest method first.

Step 1: Find a Corner or Seam

Look for an edge where two pieces of wallpaper meet.

Use a putty knife to gently lift the edge if needed.

Step 2: Pull Slowly

Grab the loose edge and pull the wallpaper away from the wall.

Keep the pull slow and steady.

If the wallpaper comes away cleanly, continue.

Step 3: Stop if the Wall Starts to Lift

Do not keep pulling if you see drywall paper or part of the wall surface coming away.

Slow down and try a different method.

Step 4: Remove Any Remaining Backing

If only the top layer comes away, you may have a backing layer left on the wall.

This layer can often be softened with warm water or wallpaper remover.

How Do You Remove Traditional or Vinyl Wallpaper?

Traditional and vinyl wallpaper may need more preparation.

The basic process is to score, soften, peel, and scrape.

Step 1: Score the Wallpaper

Use a wallpaper scoring tool to make small holes in the wallpaper surface.

Use light pressure.

The goal is to make openings in the wallpaper, not deep cuts in the wall.

This is especially important when working with drywall.

Step 2: Apply Warm Water or Wallpaper Remover

Use a spray bottle, sponge, or another suitable method to apply the solution.

Work on a small section at a time.

Do not soak the entire wall at once.

Too much moisture can damage some wall surfaces.

Step 3: Let the Adhesive Soften

Give the solution time to work.

The exact time depends on the wallpaper and the removal product.

Check the product instructions when using a commercial wallpaper remover.

The wallpaper should become softer and easier to lift.

Step 4: Peel the Wallpaper

Start at a seam or edge.

Pull the softened wallpaper away from the wall.

If it tears, do not worry. Continue working in small sections.

Step 5: Scrape the Remaining Paper

Use a wallpaper scraper or putty knife to remove pieces that remain.

Keep the scraper at a low angle and use gentle pressure.

The goal is to remove the wallpaper without cutting into the wall.

When Should You Use a Wallpaper Steamer?

A wallpaper steamer can help when wallpaper is old, stubborn, heavily bonded, or installed in several layers.

Steam uses heat and moisture to soften the wallpaper adhesive.

However, more steam is not always better.

Work in small sections and avoid keeping the steam plate against the wall for too long. Too much heat or moisture can damage drywall or soften plaster.

A good approach is:

1. Work on a small section.
2. Apply steam for a short period.
3. Test the wallpaper with a scraper.
4. Remove the softened paper.
5. Move to the next section.

If the wall surface starts to soften or lift, stop using steam and allow the area to dry.

How Do You Remove Wallpaper Glue After the Paper Is Gone?

Removing the wallpaper is only part of the job. Wallpaper adhesive can remain on the wall after the paper is gone.

Do not paint directly over thick glue.

Instead, work in small areas.

1. Apply warm water or a suitable removal solution.
2. Let the adhesive soften.
3. Gently scrape the residue.
4. Wipe the wall with a damp sponge.
5. Rinse the sponge often.
6. Allow the wall to dry completely.

Run your hand over the dry wall when you are finished. The surface should feel reasonably smooth.

If you can still feel sticky or raised areas, clean them again.

Removing wallpaper glue is important because leftover adhesive can affect the final paint finish.

How Do You Remove Wallpaper Without Damaging Drywall?

Drywall needs extra care during wallpaper removal.

The surface can be damaged by aggressive scraping, deep scoring, or too much water.

Follow these simple rules:

• Do not pull wallpaper with excessive force.
• Score the wallpaper lightly.
• Do not cut deeply into drywall.
• Use controlled moisture.
• Work in small sections.
• Keep your scraper at a low angle.
• Stop if the drywall paper begins to lift.
• Let wet areas dry before continuing.

If you have drywall and the wallpaper is strongly attached, patience is more important than force.

It is better to spend extra time softening the adhesive than to remove part of the wall with the wallpaper.

What About Plaster Walls?

Plaster walls are generally more solid than drywall, but they can still be damaged by aggressive scraping or excessive steam.

Use the least aggressive method that works.

Test a small area before treating the entire wall.

What If You Damage the Wall While Removing Wallpaper?

Small areas of wall damage are common during wallpaper removal.

You may see:

• Small gouges
• Torn drywall paper
• Scratches
• Small holes
• Uneven areas
• Remaining adhesive

Small damage can often be repaired with spackling compound or joint compound.

Apply the compound to the damaged area and let it dry. Then sand the surface until it is smooth.

Remove the sanding dust before applying primer.

For larger or serious damage, the repair may require more work.

If removing the wallpaper leaves holes or deeper damage, follow our guide on how to patch a hole in a wall before priming or painting.

Is It Safe to Remove Wallpaper in an Older Home?

Older homes need extra care.

Wallpaper may have been installed over old paint or several layers of wall covering. When you remove it, you may disturb the surface underneath.

For homes built before 1978 in the United States, lead-based paint can be a concern during renovation work. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recommends lead-safe renovation practices for work that can disturb painted surfaces.

If you are working in an older home and are unsure about the paint underneath the wallpaper, check the appropriate local safety guidance before starting.

Do not create dust from old painted surfaces without taking proper precautions.

What Are the Most Common Wallpaper Removal Mistakes?

Avoiding common mistakes can save time and prevent wall damage.

The biggest mistake is treating every wallpaper job the same way.

The safest method depends on the wallpaper type and wall material.

How Do You Prepare the Wall After Removing Wallpaper?

Once all wallpaper and wallpaper adhesive are gone, the wall needs to be prepared before you add a new finish.

Follow these steps:

1. Remove any remaining adhesive.
2. Wipe the wall clean.
3. Let the wall dry fully.
4. Repair holes and gouges.
5. Sand repaired areas.
6. Remove dust.
7. Apply primer.
8. Paint or install new wallpaper.

Do not rush this stage.

A wall can look clean after wallpaper removal but still have small bumps, scratches, or adhesive residue.

Good wall preparation gives you a smoother final result.

If you plan to repaint, primer can help create an even surface before the new paint goes on.

Once the wall is clean, smooth, and ready for a new finish, you can explore ideas for cozy home decor to complete the room.

Wallpaper Removal Method: Which One Should You Use?

Use this quick guide before you begin:

The important rule is simple:

Start with the least aggressive method and move to a stronger method only when needed.

This can help reduce wall damage and make the project easier.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the easiest way to remove wallpaper?

The easiest method depends on the wallpaper. Peelable and peel-and-stick wallpaper may come off dry. Traditional or vinyl wallpaper may need scoring and moisture. Stubborn wallpaper may need steam. Test a small section first before choosing a method.

Can you remove wallpaper without a steamer?

Yes. Many types of wallpaper can be removed with warm water or wallpaper remover. A scoring tool can help the solution reach the adhesive. A steamer is mainly useful for wallpaper that is difficult to loosen with other methods.

How do you remove wallpaper from drywall?

Start with a small test area. If the wallpaper does not peel, score it lightly and use controlled moisture to soften the adhesive. Scrape gently and avoid excessive water or force because drywall can be damaged.

Does vinegar remove wallpaper?

Warm water mixed with white vinegar is sometimes used as a DIY wallpaper removal solution. Results can vary depending on the wallpaper and adhesive. For difficult wallpaper, a commercial wallpaper remover or steamer may work better.

How long should wallpaper remover sit?

There is no single time that works for every product or wallpaper type. Follow the instructions on the wallpaper remover. In many cases, the solution needs several minutes to soften the adhesive before you begin scraping.

What should I do if wallpaper will not come off?

Do not pull harder right away. Check the wallpaper type and make sure the removal solution is reaching the adhesive. Score the surface when appropriate, work in smaller sections, and consider steam if the wallpaper is very stubborn.

Should you remove wallpaper before painting?

In most cases, removing old wallpaper and adhesive gives you a better surface for painting. After removal, clean the wall, repair damage, let it dry, sand rough areas, and apply primer before painting.

Final Thoughts

Learning how to remove wallpaper does not have to be difficult. The most important step is to identify the wallpaper before choosing your removal method.

Start with a small test area. If the wallpaper peels easily, continue with a dry method. If it does not, use controlled moisture, wallpaper remover, or steam when appropriate.

Work slowly, especially on drywall. Remove all wallpaper glue before painting, repair any damaged areas, and give the wall enough time to dry.

The goal is not simply to get the wallpaper off the wall. The goal is to leave the wall clean, smooth, and ready for its next finish.