Wallpaper Removal 101: A Stress-Free Guide to Taking It Down When You’re Ready for a Change
At some point, every space reaches an age where the wallpaper you once loved (because it was edgy, daring, and oh-so “you”) no longer reflects the style of your home, or even your personality.
Whether you’re a renter getting ready for a move-out inspection, or a homeowner finally ready to give your style an update, the key to success is preparation. Wallpaper removal doesn’t have to be the doomsday scenario you’ve been told. In fact, with the right tools, a little elbow grease and a battle plan, the process can be much more painless—and even rewarding—than you might think.
Read on to learn all you need to know about removing wallpaper step by step. We’ll cover the best methods for different types of wallpaper (yes, there’s a difference!), what tools to gather, and how to prep your walls for whatever comes next—be it a fresh coat of paint or a gorgeous new wallpaper from Wall Artifacts.
Why People Fear Wallpaper Removal (And Why You Don’t Need To)
Let’s be honest: if you’ve ever heard a horror story about wallpaper removal, it probably included words like scoring, steaming, peeling for hours, or unexpected drywall damage. The truth is, these situations usually stem from:
- Using the wrong method for the type of wallpaper.
- Skipping prep steps.
-
Rushing the process.
The good news? Today’s wallpapers are often easier to remove than ever—especially peel-and-stick or non-woven designs. If you installed it recently or bought it from a modern wallpaper brand, chances are it was made with removal in mind.
Step 1: Figure Out What Type of Wallpaper You Have
Before you start scraping your walls, take a moment to identify what kind of wallpaper you're working with. This will determine the safest and easiest removal method.
1. Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper
Found in: Rentals, DIY projects, modern interiors
Feels like: A large vinyl sticker
Good news: This type of wallpaper is designed for damage-free removal.
2. Traditional Wallpaper (Pasted)
Found in: Older homes, professionally installed rooms
Feels like: Thinner paper adhered directly to the wall
Caution: Might require water or steam to loosen adhesive prior to removal to avoid damaging underlying plaster.
3. Vinyl-Coated or Washable Wallpaper
Found in: Kitchens, bathrooms, kids’ rooms
Feels like: Plastic or glossy on top
Tip: You'll need to break the surface seal to allow moisture in.
Not sure what wallpaper type you have? Try slightly peeling up a corner. If it lifts cleanly without much resistance, it's likely peel-and-stick wallpaper. If only the top layer comes off and leaves a paper backing, you're dealing with traditional-pasted wallpaper.
Step 2: Gather Your Tools
The last thing you want is to be in the middle of removing your wallpaper and realize you forgot something. Here’s a simple checklist based on the method you should be using:
For Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper:
- A plastic scraper or credit card
- Painter’s tape (optional for outlining removal areas
-
A clean cloth or sponge
For Traditional Wallpaper:
- Spray bottle with warm water or wallpaper removal solution
- Scoring tool (if wallpaper is vinyl-coated)
- Putty knife or wallpaper scraper
- Drop cloths or towels
- Mild soap or wallpaper adhesive remover
- Sponge and bucket
-
Gloves (optional but helpful)
Step 3: Test a Small Area First
Start with a discreet corner behind a door or near the floor to test how the wallpaper responds. This will give you a sense of whether or not water is needed, if it's peel-and-stick, or if you’ll need to use the scoring tool.
Step 4: Removal Methods by Wallpaper Type
Let’s break it down into two main categories.
Method A: Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper Removal (the simple way)
If you previously installed a peel-and-stick wallpaper, the good news is that this will be quick.
Instructions:
-
Start with a corner
Gently peel up one edge with your fingers or a plastic scraper. Don’t force it. If you experience any resistance, try using a hairdryer for 60 seconds on low heat to soften the adhesive. -
Peel slowly, at an angle
Keep the angle between the wall and wallpaper at about 45–60 degrees. Pulling too sharply can stretch the wallpaper or tear it. -
Clean up any adhesive residue
Most high-quality peel-and-stick wallpaper leaves no residue behind. If there’s any stickiness, wipe it down with a damp cloth and mild soap.
💡 Pro Tip: If you plan to reinstall the wallpaper later in a new apartment or home rental, peel carefully and lay it flat with the adhesive side facing up, then roll it loosely and store it in a tube.
Method B: Traditional Wallpaper Removal (increased elbow grease)
Instructions:
-
Protect your space
Lay down drop cloths to catch any debris. Turn off the electricity to any nearby outlets and cover them with painter’s tape and plastic. -
Score the wallpaper (if vinyl-coated)
Use a wallpaper scoring tool in small circular motions. This allows water to penetrate the vinyl layer, which is needed for easy removal. -
Saturate the wallpaper
Fill a spray bottle with warm water and a small amount of dish soap or white vinegar. Generously spray water over a 3-6 foot section and let it soak for approximately 15 minutes. -
Start peeling
Use a putty knife or scraper to lift a corner. Once you have an edge pulled up, peel slowly and work in sections. -
Remove leftover adhesive
Use warm water and a sponge, or a wallpaper adhesive remover, to scrub away any glue left on the wall. -
Wipe everything clean
Once you’re done, wipe down the wall and let it dry completely for at least 36 hours before painting or reapplying wallpaper.
💡 Pro Tip: If the wallpaper is particularly stubborn, a garment or wallpaper steamer can help loosen the adhesive faster.
Step 5: Wall Prep After Removal
So, the wallpaper has been completely removed, what’s next?
Before you grab a paint roller or fresh wallpaper rolls, you should give your walls a little extra attention:
- Fill in any gouges with a lightweight spackle.
- Sand any rough spots.
- Prime the walls before painting or applying new wallpaper, especially if the surface feels porous or chalky.
Thinking about re-wallpapering? Try using a wallpaper liner or a coat of primer-sealer for creating a smooth base. This makes future removal even easier—especially if you’re using our peel-and-stick designs.
Special Tips for Renters
- Document the process. Take photos before and after to show your landlord how clean the removal was.
- Use removable wallpaper only. Always test adhesives in a small area first.
- Patch and paint carefully. If any paint lifts during removal, a little matching paint touch-up goes a long way.
Renters love our removable wallpaper for exactly this reason--it's designed to be temporary, stylish, and damage-free.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Let’s wrap up with a few pitfalls you’ll want to steer clear of:
- Skipping the peeling test. Don’t assume what worked in one room will work in another.
- Using metal scrapers too aggressively. They can damage drywall or plaster if not used with care.
- Not waiting long enough after soaking. Impatience makes the job harder.
-
Over-saturating walls. Too much water can create potential damage. Spray, don’t soak.
Final Thoughts
Wallpaper removal doesn’t have to be a frustrating process. With a little patience and the right know-how, you can take down your existing wallpaper and create a clean canvas for your next application or the next renter.
And when you’re ready to refresh your walls, we’ve got you covered with hundreds of stylish, easy-to-apply designs—from Modernist florals to vintage-inspired Art Deco prints. Whether you want something temporary or timeless, Wall Artifacts has a wallpaper that fits your style and your space.
Ready to redecorate? Browse our full wallpaper collection and discover designs you'll love to put up—and take down when the time comes.
