How to Remove Wallpaper the Right Way

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What was once a trendy wallpaper pattern may now feel more tired than timeless. Old wallpaper has a way of making a room appear dated, no matter how much you update the furniture or decor. If you’re ready to update your walls and give your space a fresh look, removing your current wallpaper is the first step. Here’s how to tackle this DIY home improvement from prep to cleanup, so you can move forward with a clean, smooth surface ready for something new.

Get the Space Ready

A little prep work goes a long way in making wallpaper removal easier. Start by clearing the area, pushing furniture away from the walls and protecting your floors with plastic sheeting or an old blanket. Shut off power to nearby outlets or light switches, then remove the faceplates to avoid getting them wet or damaged. Keep a trash bag or bucket nearby so you can toss scraps of paper as they come off, keeping your workspace tidy as you go.

Identify Your Wallpaper Type

Next, determine how the wallpaper reacts to removal. Start by locating a seam or edge and carefully pry it up with a putty knife or scraper. If the paper comes off easily in large pieces, you likely have strippable or removable wallpaper, which means the job will be much easier. If it tears or leaves backing behind, you’re dealing with a more stubborn variety that will need a bit more effort and potentially a wallpaper removal solution or steam. Knowing this early will help you choose the right method and save time.

Score and Soak the Wallpaper

When dealing with tough, glued-down wallpaper, creating small holes in the surface will allow moisture to reach the adhesive underneath. Use a wallpaper scoring tool to gently perforate the paper without damaging the wall beneath. Next, apply a wallpaper remover using a sponge or spray bottle. This could be a commercial product or a homemade blend of warm water and vinegar. Allow the solution to soak in for about 15 to 20 minutes to loosen the adhesive for easier removal.

Gently Remove the Wallpaper

After the adhesive has softened, start lifting the wallpaper gently using a putty knife or scraper. Take your time to avoid damaging the wall surface beneath. If you encounter any stubborn spots, apply more removal solution and let it sit a bit longer before trying again. Being patient during this step will help preserve your drywall and make the process smoother.

Remove Any Residue

Once the wallpaper is fully removed, you may notice leftover adhesive on the walls. To clear this, scrub the surface with a mixture of warm water and mild dish soap or use a specialized adhesive remover. Rinse well and allow the walls to dry completely before moving on to priming or painting. This ensures an even canvas for your next project.

Disposing of Wallpaper Debris

By the time you’re finished, you’ll likely have bags of torn wallpaper, backing, and debris. This kind of material isn’t always easy to bundle up with your regular trash. If you’re removing wallpaper throughout your home, consider looking into dumpsters for hire in your area to simplify disposal. It’s an efficient way to keep your space clean and clutter-free, especially when dealing with bulky or dusty waste.

Conclusion

Removing wallpaper can be a bit messy, but it’s also a satisfying way to reveal a fresh canvas for your next design vision. Though it requires a bit of effort, the results are well worth it. Once the walls are clean and bare, you’ll be one step closer to creating the room you’ve been envisioning.