How to Remove Old Wallpaper Without Damaging Walls: A Stress-Free Guide

Whether you’ve just moved into a home with outdated wallpaper or you're ready to refresh a room, removing old wallpaper can feel like a daunting task. The good news? With the right techniques and a little patience, you can remove wallpaper without damaging your walls.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll share expert tips to help you safely strip wallpaper and prep your walls for a fresh new look. No gouges, no frustration—just a smooth, clean surface ready for paint or paper.

Why It’s Important to Remove Wallpaper Properly

Ripping off wallpaper without proper care can:

• Damage the plaster or drywall underneath

• Leave behind adhesive residue that affects paint or new wallpaper

• Increase your workload in repairs and prep

Doing it right the first time saves you time, money, and hassle.

What You’ll Need

• Wallpaper scorer or utility knife

• Wallpaper scraper or putty knife

• Wallpaper steamer (optional but helpful)

• Spray bottle or garden sprayer

• Warm water mixed with wallpaper remover or white vinegar

• Drop cloths or plastic sheeting

• Sponge and mild detergent

• Sandpaper (fine grit)

• Painter's tape

  
  

Step-by-Step Wallpaper Removal Process

1. Prep the Room

Protect your floors and furnishings:

• Remove or cover all furniture.

• Lay down drop cloths or plastic sheeting.

• Turn off electricity and remove outlet covers/light switch plates.

  
  

2. Test a Small Area First

Before jumping in, test a small corner to see how the wallpaper responds. You may find it’s a peelable type that comes off easily, or one that needs soaking.

3. Score the Wallpaper (If Necessary)

If the wallpaper is not peelable, use a scoring tool or utility knife to create tiny holes across the surface. This allows moisture to penetrate and loosen the adhesive beneath.

4. Apply a Removal Solution

Mix warm water with wallpaper remover or white vinegar in a spray bottle or garden sprayer. Generously saturate the wallpaper, paying extra attention to seams.

Let it soak for 15–20 minutes to soften the adhesive.

5. Gently Scrape the Wallpaper Off

Use a wallpaper scraper or putty knife to lift the paper from the wall. Start at a seam or corner and work slowly to avoid damaging the wall underneath.

Pro tip: Keep the wall wet as you go to make removal easier and safer for the surface.

6. Remove Residual Adhesive

Once the paper is off, you’ll likely be left with sticky residue. Use a sponge and warm water mixed with a bit of dish soap or vinegar to scrub it away. For stubborn spots, a commercial adhesive remover may help.

7. Clean and Inspect the Walls

After removing adhesive, rinse the walls with clean water and allow them to dry. Check for any damage, gouges, or imperfections. Sand lightly if needed.

Extra Tips for a Damage-Free Finish

• Always use plastic or rounded-edge scrapers to minimise wall gouges.

• Work in sections to prevent the solution from drying before scraping.

• Avoid over-saturating drywall—it can become soft and damaged.

• If you’re working with multiple wallpaper layers, remove one layer at a time.

  
  

What to Do After Wallpaper Removal

Once the walls are clean and dry, you can:

• Fill any minor dents or imperfections

• Prime the surface with a stain-blocking primer

• Paint with your chosen colour or apply fresh wallpaper

  
  

Final Thoughts

Removing old wallpaper doesn’t have to be a nightmare. With the right preparation, tools, and a patient approach, you can strip wallpaper cleanly and preserve the integrity of your walls.

Take it one section at a time, keep things damp (but not drenched), and enjoy the satisfaction of revealing a fresh blank canvas. Your walls will thank you!