How To Remove Wallpaper From Drywall: A Step-by-Step Guide

Sep 13, 2025 by Ahmed Latif 59 views

So, you're staring at that old wallpaper, thinking it's time for a change? You're not alone, guys! Removing wallpaper, especially from drywall, can seem like a daunting task, but trust me, with the right tools and a bit of patience, you can totally DIY this and give your walls a fresh new look. We're going to walk through a step-by-step guide to make this process as smooth as possible. So, let's dive in and learn how to remove wallpaper from drywall like a pro! It's not just about tearing it off; it's about preserving your walls and setting them up for their next beautiful chapter. Remember, preparation is key, so gather your supplies and let's get started!

What You'll Need

Before we get our hands dirty, let’s talk about the arsenal you'll need. Having the right tools makes a world of difference, trust me. Imagine trying to unscrew something with a butter knife – not fun, right? It’s the same with wallpaper removal. Here’s a rundown of the essentials:

Wallpaper Scoring Tool: This little gadget is a game-changer. It perforates the wallpaper, allowing your removal solution to seep in and work its magic. Think of it as creating tiny pathways for the moisture to penetrate. There are different types available, from simple rollers with small spikes to more elaborate tools. Find one that feels comfortable in your hand. You can find them at most hardware stores or online, and they're super affordable. Trust me, it's a worthy investment. Without scoring, you're just fighting a losing battle, trying to peel off a solid sheet of paper. This tool creates those crucial breaks in the surface.
Wallpaper Removal Solution: You've got a couple of options here. You can buy a commercial wallpaper removal solution, which is specifically formulated to break down the adhesive. These solutions often contain enzymes or other chemicals that target the glue. Follow the instructions on the label carefully, as some may need to be diluted. Alternatively, you can whip up a DIY solution using warm water and fabric softener or vinegar. A mixture of equal parts warm water and fabric softener (or white vinegar) often does the trick. The warm water helps to soften the adhesive, while the fabric softener or vinegar helps to break it down. Just be cautious with vinegar on certain surfaces, and always test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn't damage the drywall. Make sure to use warm water, not hot, as hot water can sometimes damage the drywall paper.
Spray Bottle or Garden Sprayer: This is your applicator for the removal solution. A spray bottle is great for smaller areas or detail work, while a garden sprayer is perfect for larger rooms. A garden sprayer allows you to cover a larger area quickly and evenly, saving you time and effort. Just make sure the sprayer is clean and free of any chemicals that could damage your walls. A consistent, even application is key to the solution soaking in properly.
Putty Knife or Scraper: This is your weapon of choice for actually removing the wallpaper. Choose a putty knife with a flexible blade, as it will be easier to maneuver along the wall. A wider blade is good for covering more surface area, but a narrower one is better for tight corners and edges. Be careful not to gouge the drywall with the corners of the blade. Work gently and patiently, and don't force it. If the wallpaper is resistant, apply more solution and let it sit for a bit longer.
Sponges and Buckets: For applying the solution and wiping down the walls. You’ll need a clean sponge to apply your wallpaper removal solution and another to wipe away the loosened wallpaper and any remaining residue. A couple of buckets – one for clean water and one for the used solution – will keep things organized. Cleanliness is key here; you don't want to reapply dirty water to your walls. Using clean sponges and water will ensure you're removing the adhesive effectively.
Drop Cloths: Protect your floors! Seriously, this is non-negotiable. Removing wallpaper can get messy, and you don't want to be scrubbing glue and paper off your flooring later. Lay down drop cloths to cover your floors and furniture. Canvas drop cloths are durable and reusable, but plastic drop cloths are a good, cost-effective option too. Secure them with painter's tape to prevent them from shifting around. Think of it as creating a safe zone for your workspace.
Painter's Tape: To protect trim and baseboards. Painter's tape is your friend when it comes to protecting your trim, baseboards, and any other areas you don't want to get wet or scraped. Apply it carefully along the edges, pressing firmly to create a good seal. This will prevent the removal solution from seeping underneath and causing damage. Plus, it makes cleanup a breeze. When you're done, just peel it off for a clean, crisp line. It's a small step that can save you a lot of time and frustration in the long run.
Safety Glasses and Gloves: Safety first, guys! You're dealing with chemicals and scraping, so protect your eyes and hands. Safety glasses will shield your eyes from splashes and debris, while gloves will protect your skin from the removal solution and potential irritation. Trust me, you don't want to get that stuff in your eyes. And wearing gloves will also prevent your hands from getting sticky and irritated from the adhesive. Think of it as your personal protective gear.
Trash Bags: You'll need somewhere to toss the old wallpaper. Keep a trash bag handy to collect the discarded wallpaper pieces. This will make cleanup much easier. A large trash bag or even a garbage can lined with a bag is ideal. You can even use multiple bags if you're tackling a large room. This simple step will keep your workspace tidy and prevent the discarded wallpaper from creating a bigger mess.

Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Wallpaper

Okay, now that we've got our tools and safety gear sorted, let's get down to the nitty-gritty of how to remove wallpaper from drywall. This might seem like a marathon, but break it down into smaller steps, and you'll be surprised how quickly you make progress. Remember, patience is key here. Don't rush the process, or you might end up damaging your walls. Let's get started and make those walls wallpaper-free!

1. Prepare the Room

Before you even think about touching that wallpaper, prepping the room is crucial. It’s like stretching before a workout – you wouldn’t skip it, right? This step protects your space and sets you up for a smoother process. First things first, clear the area. Move furniture away from the walls or cover it with drop cloths. You don't want your favorite sofa getting splattered with wallpaper removal solution. Next, lay down your drop cloths to protect the floors. Secure them with painter's tape to keep them in place. This will prevent any accidental slips and slides. And don't forget the painter's tape for your trim and baseboards! Apply it carefully to create a protective barrier. Finally, make sure the room is well-ventilated. Open windows and doors to let fresh air circulate. Wallpaper removal solutions can have strong odors, so good ventilation is essential. A well-ventilated room will also help the solution dry faster, which can speed up the overall process.

2. Score the Wallpaper

This is where that wallpaper scoring tool comes into play. Imagine the wallpaper as a fortress, and the scoring tool as your battering ram. It creates tiny perforations that allow the removal solution to penetrate the adhesive beneath. Hold the scoring tool firmly and run it over the wallpaper in a consistent pattern. Don't press too hard, or you might damage the drywall underneath. The goal is to create small holes or slits, not to tear the paper. Work in sections, overlapping your passes slightly to ensure you've covered the entire surface. Pay special attention to seams and edges, as these are often the most difficult areas to remove. Scoring the wallpaper is a crucial step, as it allows the removal solution to reach the adhesive effectively. Without scoring, the solution might just sit on the surface, making the removal process much harder.

3. Apply the Removal Solution

Time to unleash the magic potion! Grab your spray bottle or garden sprayer and fill it with your chosen removal solution – whether it’s a commercial product or your DIY mix of warm water and fabric softener (or vinegar). Now, spray the solution generously onto the scored wallpaper. You want to saturate the paper, but not so much that it's dripping down the walls. Work in manageable sections, about 2-3 feet at a time. This will prevent the solution from drying out before you have a chance to scrape the wallpaper off. Let the solution sit for the recommended time, usually 10-15 minutes. This gives it time to penetrate the wallpaper and loosen the adhesive. You might see the wallpaper start to bubble or peel slightly – that's a good sign! It means the solution is working its magic. If you're working in a large room, you might need to apply the solution in stages, allowing each section to soak while you work on the next.

4. Scrape Off the Wallpaper

Now for the satisfying part – peeling off that old wallpaper! Take your putty knife or scraper and gently slide it under a corner or edge of the wallpaper. If the solution has done its job, the wallpaper should come off relatively easily. Work slowly and steadily, using a smooth, even motion. Avoid jerking or pulling too hard, as this can tear the paper and leave behind stubborn pieces. If the wallpaper is resistant, apply more solution and let it sit for a bit longer. Patience is key here. Don't try to force it, or you risk damaging the drywall. You might find it helpful to hold the scraper at a slight angle, using a gentle rocking motion to lift the wallpaper. Work in small sections, scraping away the loosened paper and then moving on to the next area. If you encounter any particularly stubborn spots, try using a narrower putty knife or even a utility knife to score the paper further.

5. Remove Remaining Adhesive

Okay, you've got the wallpaper off – congrats! But the job's not quite done yet. There's likely still some adhesive residue clinging to the wall. This needs to be removed, or your new paint or wallpaper won't adhere properly. Grab your sponge and a bucket of clean, warm water. You can add a little bit of dish soap to the water for extra cleaning power. Dip the sponge into the water, wring out the excess, and gently wash the walls. Use a circular motion to scrub away the adhesive residue. You might need to rinse the sponge frequently to prevent spreading the glue around. For stubborn adhesive, you can try using a commercial adhesive remover. Follow the instructions on the product label carefully. Apply the remover to the affected area, let it sit for the recommended time, and then scrub it away with a sponge or cloth. Once you've removed all the adhesive, rinse the walls one more time with clean water to remove any remaining cleaning solution.

6. Repair Any Damage

Now's the time to inspect your drywall for any damage. Removing wallpaper can sometimes reveal imperfections like small holes, dents, or tears. It's important to repair these before you paint or apply new wallpaper. For small holes and dents, use a drywall patching compound. Apply a small amount of compound to the damaged area, using a putty knife to spread it evenly. Let it dry completely, and then sand it smooth with fine-grit sandpaper. For larger holes or tears, you might need to use a drywall patch or even replace a section of drywall. If you're not comfortable doing this yourself, it's best to call in a professional. Once you've repaired any damage, prime the walls before painting or applying new wallpaper. Primer helps to seal the surface and create a smooth, even base for the new finish. It also helps the paint or wallpaper adhere better.

7. Clean Up

You're almost there! The final step is to clean up your workspace. Remove the drop cloths and painter's tape. Dispose of the old wallpaper and any other trash. Wipe down the walls with a clean, damp cloth to remove any remaining dust or debris. Sweep or vacuum the floor to pick up any scraps of paper or adhesive. And that's it! You've successfully removed the wallpaper and prepped your walls for their next makeover. Pat yourself on the back – you did it! Now you can stand back and admire your freshly prepped walls. Think of them as a blank canvas, ready for a fresh coat of paint or some stylish new wallpaper. You've taken a big step in transforming your space, and the results will be worth the effort.

Tips and Tricks for Easier Wallpaper Removal

Test a Small Area First: Before you commit to removing all the wallpaper, test a small, inconspicuous area to see how easily it comes off. This will give you an idea of what you're up against and help you adjust your approach if needed. Plus, it's a good way to ensure your removal solution doesn't damage the drywall.
Use Warm Water: Warm water helps to soften the adhesive, making it easier to remove the wallpaper. Avoid using hot water, as it can damage the drywall paper.
Be Patient: Don't rush the process. If the wallpaper is resistant, apply more solution and let it sit for a bit longer. Patience is key to avoiding damage to the drywall.
Work in Sections: Apply the removal solution in manageable sections, about 2-3 feet at a time. This prevents the solution from drying out before you have a chance to scrape the wallpaper off.
Use a Steamer: For particularly stubborn wallpaper, a wallpaper steamer can be a lifesaver. The steam helps to loosen the adhesive, making the wallpaper easier to remove. You can rent a wallpaper steamer from most hardware stores.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not Scoring the Wallpaper: Skipping this step is a common mistake that makes the removal process much harder. Scoring the wallpaper allows the removal solution to penetrate the adhesive effectively.
Using Too Much Force: Forcing the wallpaper off can damage the drywall. Work slowly and steadily, and apply more solution if needed.
Not Protecting the Floors: Neglecting to lay down drop cloths can lead to a messy cleanup. Protect your floors before you start.
Ignoring Safety Precautions: Always wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from chemicals and debris.
Rushing the Process: Rushing can lead to mistakes and damage. Take your time and be patient.

So, there you have it, guys! Removing wallpaper from drywall doesn't have to be a nightmare. With the right tools, a little elbow grease, and a whole lot of patience, you can achieve a smooth, clean surface ready for its next transformation. Remember to take it one step at a time, and don't be afraid to take breaks when you need them. Happy decorating!