How to Remove Old Wallpaper Without Damaging Your Walls: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’ve ever decided to update your interiors, one of the first hurdles might be dealing with old wallpaper. Whether it's been up for a decade or just a few years, removing wallpaper can feel like a messy, wall-damaging ordeal—unless you know how to do it right. The good news? With the right tools, a bit of patience, and the correct method, you can safely strip off old wallpaper without harming the surface underneath.

In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process, share what to avoid, and help you get ready for a brand-new look, perhaps some stunning flower wallpaper for every season or a rustic brick and stone wallpaper design.

Step 1: Identify the Type of Wallpaper and Wall

Before diving into the removal process, it’s essential to know what you're working with.

Ask yourself:

• Is this traditional wallpaper or peel-and-stick?
• Was it installed with paste or adhesive?
• Is the wall painted drywall, plaster, or something else?

Test a small section:
Use a putty knife to lift a corner. If it peels easily, it's likely removable wallpaper. If it resists or tears, it may be pasted traditional wallpaper, and you’ll need a more hands-on removal method.

Step 2: Protect Your Space

Wallpaper removal can be messy, so prep your space first:

• Move furniture away from walls.
• Lay down drop cloths or plastic sheets to catch debris and water.
• Turn off power to the room and cover electrical outlets and light switches with painter’s tape and plastic.

This preparation prevents moisture damage to fixtures and keeps your floors clean.

Step 3: Score the Wallpaper (If Necessary)

If you’re dealing with traditional wallpaper, you’ll need to help moisture get behind the paper. That’s where scoring comes in.

Use a wallpaper scoring tool and gently roll it over the surface. This creates tiny perforations that allow water or removal solution to penetrate the adhesive layer more effectively.

Note: Be gentle. Too much pressure may damage the wall surface underneath.

Step 4: Soften the Adhesive

To loosen the wallpaper glue, apply one of the following solutions:

Homemade Mix:

• Warm water + a few drops of dish soap
• Optional: Add white vinegar for extra adhesive-cutting power

Commercial Wallpaper Remover:

Available in most hardware stores and often more effective for stubborn paper.

Spray or sponge the solution generously over the wallpaper. Let it sit for 15–20 minutes so it can soak through the paper and soften the glue.

Step 5: Start Peeling

Begin peeling from the seams or a scored edge. Use your hands or a plastic putty knife to gently lift the wallpaper away from the wall. Avoid metal scrapers; they may gouge your wall.

Work in small sections and reapply your solution as needed. Don’t rush; slow, steady peeling reduces the risk of pulling up paint or damaging drywall.

If you encounter stubborn sections, soak again and wait another 10 minutes before retrying.

Step 6: Clean Off Residue

Once all the paper is off, you’ll likely be left with adhesive residue. Here’s how to clean it:

1. Mix warm water with a few drops of dish soap or wallpaper adhesive remover.
2. Use a sponge or cloth to scrub off the glue.
3. Rinse with clean water and dry with a soft towel.

Removing this residue is crucial, and leftover glue can interfere with the adhesion of your next wallpaper or paint.

Step 7: Inspect and Repair the Wall

After the walls are clean and dry, inspect them closely:

• Are there gouges, scratches, or tears in the drywall or plaster?
• Any areas needing patching or sanding?

Use a joint compound or spackling paste to smooth out imperfections. Once dry, sand the surface lightly and wipe off dust.

Now your wall is ready for the fun part, redecorating.

Wallpaper Ideas for Your Fresh Walls

1. Floral Beauty Year-Round

Freshen up your space with flower wallpaper for every season. From spring blossoms to cozy fall florals, floral prints bring nature indoors and add character to any room.

2. Rustic Brick & Stone Styles

Add texture and charm with brick and stone wallpaper. Perfect for accent walls, these wallpapers give an industrial or farmhouse feel—without the cost or mess of real brick.

3. Luxury and Tradition with Thibaut

Explore our premium Thibaut wallpaper collection. Known for classic patterns, high-quality materials, and timeless appeal, Thibaut brings sophistication to any room.

4. Looking to Save Big?

Wallpapering doesn’t have to break the bank. Check out our blog on how to save big on wallpaper with tips, discounts, and smart shopping strategies to make your dream interior budget-friendly.

Conclusion

Removing wallpaper doesn’t have to be a nightmare. With the right approach, you can take down even the oldest paper without damaging your walls. Patience, prep, and the right materials make all the difference. Once you’ve cleared the canvas, the real fun begins: choosing something beautiful and new to put up. Whether you go with florals, textured stone, or designer options like Thibaut, your walls will thank you for the makeover.

And if you need help finding the perfect wallpaper, Total Wallcovering offers expert advice, top-quality brands, and seasonal deals to make the process smooth from start to finish.