How to Remove Wallpaper
Step-by-step guide to strip wallpaper cleanly from any wall
⚡Quick Answer
Score the wallpaper, soak it with a hot water and fabric softener solution, and wait 15 minutes before peeling. Scrape off any remaining adhesive, then wash the wall and let it dry completely before redecorating.
Step-by-Step Guide
Score the Wallpaper
Run a scoring tool across the entire wallpaper surface in overlapping circles to perforate it, allowing the removal solution to penetrate the layers. Work in manageable sections — about 4 square feet at a time — so you can keep up with soaking and peeling without the solution drying out.
Apply Removal Solution
Mix equal parts hot water and fabric softener, then apply generously with a sponge or spray bottle, saturating the scored surface completely. You can also use a dedicated wallpaper removal concentrate (available at hardware stores) for particularly stubborn adhesives or multiple-layer wallpaper.
Wait, Then Peel
Let the solution soak for 15 minutes so the adhesive fully softens, then peel from a bottom corner using your fingers or a putty knife held at a shallow angle. Pull slowly and steadily — rushing causes tearing, which means more scraping later.
Scrape and Clean
Use a wide scraper (6–10 inches) to remove remaining adhesive residue, keeping the blade nearly flat against the wall to avoid gouging. Once the adhesive is gone, wash the entire wall with warm soapy water, rinse with clean water, and let it dry for at least 24 hours before painting or applying new wallpaper.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a scoring tool?
It helps a lot — scoring lets the solution penetrate the paper so it peels off much more easily, especially with vinyl-coated wallpaper that resists moisture. Without scoring, you may find yourself reapplying solution many more times and still struggling to get the paper off in large pieces. A basic **rotary scoring tool** costs around $10–15 and is well worth the investment.
Can I remove wallpaper without damaging drywall?
Yes, if you score lightly and keep the wall **well-saturated** before peeling — the key is patience, not force. Rushing by pulling hard or using excessive scraper pressure is the main cause of drywall damage. If you do nick the surface, **joint compound** fills small gouges easily once the wall is fully dry.
How long does wallpaper removal take?
A standard room takes **4–8 hours** depending on wallpaper layers, adhesive type, and wall condition. Older homes with multiple layers of wallpaper over plaster can take significantly longer, sometimes spanning two days. Budget extra time if you're unsure what's underneath — discovering a second hidden layer mid-project is common.
What do I do if wallpaper was glued directly onto unprimed drywall?
This is the trickiest scenario — removing wallpaper from **unprimed drywall** often tears the paper face of the drywall along with the wallpaper. Work very slowly, keep the wall extremely wet, and use a plastic scraper instead of metal to minimize damage. In severe cases, it may be easier to skim-coat the damaged wall with **joint compound** or even replace the drywall panels entirely.