Expert Guide: How to Remove Wallpaper Like a Pro

Learn the best techniques to remove wallpaper effectively. Step-by-step guide for a perfect finish.

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Tools Required (5)

  • •Putty knife (2-inch blade)
  • •Spray bottle (32 oz)
  • •Bucket (2 gallons)
  • •Sponge (6x 4 inches)
  • •Rubber gloves (1 pair)

Materials Needed (6)

  • •1 gallon hot water
  • •1/4 cup white vinegar
  • •1/4 cup fabric softener
  • •1 drop dish soap
  • •1 drop baking soda
  • •1 drop white vinegar

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Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. 1.Remove all furniture and cover the floor with a drop cloth to protect it from water damage.
  2. 2.Remove all electrical faceplates and cover outlets and switches with painter's tape to prevent water from entering.
  3. 3.Fill a spray bottle with a mixture of 1 gallon of hot water and 1/4 cup of white vinegar.
  4. 4.Spray the wallpaper generously with the solution, starting from the top and working your way down, ensuring the paper is thoroughly saturated.
  5. 5.Allow the solution to sit for 15 minutes to loosen the adhesive.
  6. 6.Use a putty knife to gently peel the wallpaper away from the wall, starting at a corner or seam.
  7. 7.If the wallpaper doesn't peel easily, score the surface lightly with the putty knife to allow the solution to penetrate deeper.
  8. 8.Continue spraying and peeling in small sections until all wallpaper is removed.
  9. 9.Mix a solution of warm water and a small amount of dish soap in a bucket.
  10. 10.Use a sponge to wash the walls, removing any remaining adhesive residue.
  11. 11.Rinse the walls with clean water and allow them to dry completely before painting or applying new wallpaper.
  12. 12.If any adhesive remains, mix a solution of warm water, a tablespoon of baking soda, vinegar, and hot water.
  13. 13.Apply this mixture to the wall using a sponge, and the residue should come off easily.
  14. 14.If the residue is still stubborn, consider using a steamer as an alternative method.
  15. 15.To use a steamer, fill it with water and allow it to heat up.
  16. 16.Hold the steamer plate against the wallpaper for about 30 seconds to soften the adhesive.
  17. 17.Use the putty knife to scrape off the wallpaper, being careful not to damage the wall beneath.
  18. 18.Work in small sections, and always wear gloves and protective eyewear when using a steamer.
  19. 19.After removing all wallpaper, clean the walls with a mixture of dish soap and water to remove any remaining adhesive.
  20. 20.Allow the walls to dry completely before proceeding with painting or applying new wallpaper.

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