Wallpaper removal can feel like a messy, daunting task, but having done it a few times in my life, it's not as terrible as you think. That said, done wrong, it can leave you with torn drywall and extra repairs. But with a little patience, elbow grease, and the right removal method, you can take down layers of wallpaper without ruining your walls. Whether you're dealing with "temporary" peel-and-stick wallpaper or something that's been up for decades, knowing how to loosen the wallpaper adhesive and work carefully will make all the difference. Here’s how to do it without making more work for yourself later.

Test and Prepare Before You Start

Before you grab a putty knife and start peeling, figure out what kind of wallpaper you’re dealing with. Some types come off easily, while others need more effort.

  • Peel-and-stick wallpaper usually comes off in large sections without much trouble.
  • Strippable wallpaper is designed to be removed easily with water.
  • Traditional wallpaper often has a paper backing that stays stuck to the wall after the top layer is peeled off.
  • Vinyl-coated wallpaper resists water, so it may need scoring before applying a removal solution.

Start by testing a small section in an out-of-the-way spot. Use a putty knife or your fingernail to lift a corner. If it peels away smoothly, you’re in luck. If it tears or leaves backing behind, you’ll need water or a wallpaper remover to break down the adhesive glue.

Lay down drop cloths or plastic sheets to protect your floors. Have a trash bag nearby for the paper scraps. If you're using a liquid remover, keep a damp sponge and a bucket of warm water handy.

Person uses a tool to peel back wallpaper.
Once the paper is loosened, you'll usually be able to gently scrape it away. Credit: Pavelrodimov / Getty Images

Use the Right Method for Your Wallpaper

Once you know what type of wallpaper you have, choose the best removal process without damaging the drywall.

For peelable wallpaper or strippable wallpaper, slowly pull it off at an angle. If it resists, use warm water or a bit of fabric softener mixed with water to loosen the adhesive.

For traditional or vinyl-coated wallpaper, you’ll likely need to use one of these methods:

  • Soaking with hot water – Mix hot water with a bit of dish soap or liquid fabric softener. Apply it with a sponge or spray bottle and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. Then, gently scrape with a putty knife.
  • Using a wallpaper steamer – A steamer softens the glue so you can peel the wallpaper away. Move it slowly over the surface, working in sections. Wear gloves, as the steam can get hot. Sometimes a clothes steamer or inexpensive plastic steamer is as effective as a commercial-grade steamer.
  • Scoring for stubborn wallpaper – If the layer of paper has a water resistant coating or a coat of paint, lightly score it with a wallpaper scoring tool before applying water solution, wallpaper stripper, or remover solution. This helps moisture soak through and break down the glue.

Always scrape gently with a sharp scraper to avoid gouging the drywall. If the paper doesn’t come off easily, apply more wallpaper removal solution and wait a few minutes before trying again to leave the drywall intact.

Woman sands drywall with sandpaper.
Patch and sand imperfections before adding primer and paint (or new wallpaper). Credit: Supersizer / Getty Images

Clean and Smooth the Walls After Removal

Once all the wallpaper is off, you’ll likely have some residual glue left on the walls. If you skip this step, paint or new wallpaper won’t adhere properly.

  1. Mix warm water with a mixture of dish soap or white vinegar solution.
  2. Use a clean sponge or rag to wipe away any sticky spots.
  3. For stubborn wallpaper glue, try plastic putty knives or a Magic Eraser.
  4. Dry the walls with a clean towel, then let them air dry completely.
  5. If you find small dings or rough spots in the drywall, use a lightweight spackle to fill them in. Sand lightly with fine-grit sandpaper for a smooth finish. Once the walls are clean and dry, they’re ready for fresh paint or new wallpaper.

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FAQ

Can I paint over wallpaper instead of removing it?

We have, but it's not always the best choice. If the wallpaper panels are in good shape—smooth with no peeling edges—you can paint over it using a high-adhesion primer and a good paint roller. But if it’s textured, damaged, or has seams that might show through, removing the wallpaper it first will give you better results.

What if the drywall gets damaged during removal?

Small tears can be patched with spackle. For larger areas, apply a thin layer of joint compound, let it dry, and sand it smooth. If the damage is severe, a drywall patch may be needed before painting or re-wallpapering.