How to Remove Wallpaper Easily: Step-by-Step Guide for a Clean, Damage-Free Wall

Removing wallpaper doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Whether you're updating an outdated look or prepping a room for paint, getting old wallpaper off your walls can actually be straightforward—if you know the right method. This guide will walk you through how to remove wallpaper easily, without damaging your walls or blowing your budget.

What You’ll Need

Before you start, gather these basics:

  • Wallpaper scorer or utility knife
  • Spray bottle or pump sprayer
  • Hot water
  • White vinegar or wallpaper removal solution
  • Plastic putty knife or scraper
  • Drop cloths or old towels
  • Sponge and bucket

Optional: A steamer (for stubborn wallpaper)

Step 1: Prep Your Space

  • Move furniture away from the walls.
  • Cover the floor with a drop cloth or old towels.
  • Turn off electricity and remove outlet/switch covers.

This will protect your space from moisture and make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Test the Wallpaper Type

Try peeling a corner of the wallpaper:

  • If it peels off in one piece – You have peelable wallpaper. Remove the top layer first, then soak the backing.
  • If it tears into layers – You have traditional wallpaper. You’ll need to soak and scrape both the top and bottom layers.
  • If nothing comes off easily – It’s likely old, heavy-duty wallpaper. Plan on more soaking and scraping.

Step 3: Score the Wallpaper

Use a wallpaper scoring tool or utility knife to make small holes or cuts across the surface. This helps your removal solution soak into the adhesive underneath. Be gentle—you want to puncture the paper, not the wall.

Step 4: Apply Hot Water & Vinegar

Mix a solution of:

  • Hot water + white vinegar (1:1) – eco-friendly and cheap
    OR
  • Use a commercial wallpaper remover

Spray a small section of the wall generously. Let it soak for 10–15 minutes. If it dries out, spray again.

Step 5: Scrape Carefully

Once the wallpaper softens, use a plastic putty knife to scrape it off. Avoid metal tools—they can gouge your walls. Work in sections: spray, wait, scrape. Be patient. For really stubborn spots, respray and wait again.

Step 6: Clean Off the Glue

After all the wallpaper is gone, you’ll likely have leftover adhesive. Use warm water and a sponge to scrub it off. Add vinegar or dish soap for extra cleaning power. Rinse with clean water and let the wall dry completely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Don’t skip scoring – the solution won’t penetrate the paper.
  • Don’t rush soaking time – the wetter the glue, the easier the job.
  • Don’t use metal scrapers – they’ll damage your walls.
  • Don’t forget to test a section first – this tells you how hard the job will be.

Final Tips

Removing wallpaper is all about technique, not brute force. Once you get a rhythm going, it’s surprisingly satisfying. And when you're done, you’ve got a clean canvas ready for a fresh coat of paint, new wallpaper, or whatever’s next.

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