Whether you’re swapping wallpaper or painting your walls, removing old wallpaper and leftover glue is key for a smooth surface. Unsure where to begin? From peeling off the paper to scrubbing off stubborn adhesive, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know.

What to Know Before You Remove Wallpaper

Before you begin, it’s important to know which type of wallpaper you're working with. Most wallpaper has two layers: a base layer and a decorative top layer. The removal method depends on whether your wallpaper is strippable or peelable. To find out which type you have, loosen the corner of your wallpaper with a putty knife. If it peels off in one piece, it’s strippable. If just the top layer comes off, it’s peelable.

Strippable Wallpaper: This wallpaper cleanly comes off in one piece, with both the top and base layers separating from the wall.

Peelable Wallpaper: Only the top layer of wallpaper comes off during removal, leaving the base layer on the wall. The base may be used as a liner for new wallpaper, but if you plan to paint, it must be completely scraped off. If parts of the base begin to peel during removal, strip the entire layer to prevent bumps from forming under paint or new wallpaper.

How to Remove Wallpaper

Removing old wallpaper doesn't need to be difficult or time-consuming – use the following instructions to streamline the process.

What You Will Need

• Ladder
• Painter's tape
• Towels
• Bucket
• Rubber gloves
• Wallpaper stripping solution
• Sponge
• Wallpaper stripping knife or putty knife
• Liquid dish soap

Step One: Prep the Room

Before removing old wallpaper, turn off electricity to the room as you will be using water to soak the wallpaper. Use painter’s tape to cover electrical outlets, baseboards, and trim. Move or cover furniture with tarps, and place towels along the baseboards to catch drips. If there are nearby windows, open them to improve ventilation and speed up the drying process.

Step Two: Soak the Wallpaper

Fill a bucket with warm water, put on rubber gloves, and add the wallpaper stripping solution according to the bottle’s instructions. Dip a sponge into the mixture and apply it generously to the wallpaper, working in small sections. Only soak areas you can strip within about 15 minutes to avoid letting the solution dry out before you scrape.

Step Three: Strip Away the Wallpaper

Starting at the bottom corner, gently pull the wallpaper up and away from the wall. If it doesn’t peel easily, use a wallpaper stripping knife or wide putty knife to loosen it. Scrape slowly and use light pressure to avoid damaging the drywall underneath.

Step Four: Remove or Keep the Lining

If you’re working with peelable wallpaper, the base layer (liner) may remain on the wall. You can leave it in place if you’re applying new wallpaper on top. However, if any part of the liner is bubbling or has come off, remove it entirely to prevent bumps or uneven surfaces in your next wall treatment.

Step 5: Clean the Walls

Mix 1 gallon of hot water and 1 to 2 teaspoons of liquid dish soap. Then, use a clean sponge to wipe down the walls with this mixture, removing any remaining residue. Rinse with plain water using a sponge or cloth, then pat the walls dry with a towel. Allow the surface to dry for a full 24 hours before applying new paint or wallpaper.

How to Remove Wallpaper Glue

Whether you noticed residual glue on your new home’s walls or you’re removing glue to put up new wallpaper, here are a few quick steps to help you remove glue like a pro.

What You Will Need

• Painter’s tape
• Towels
• Bucket
• Hot water
• Liquid dish soap
• Baking soda
• Rubber gloves
• Sponge
• Putty knife
• Rag

Step One: Prep the Room

Since you’ll be working with water near outlets, go to your circuit breaker and turn off the electricity in the room where you’ll be working. Use painter's tape to cover electrical outlets and baseboards. Move furniture out of the room or cover it with tarps, and lay towels or drop cloths on the floor to protect the surface and catch drips.

Step Two: Make a Cleaning Solution

Fill a bucket with 1 gallon of hot water, then add 1 tablespoon of liquid dish soap and 1 tablespoon of baking soda. Stir the mixture until fully combined – it’s safe for most wall surfaces and effectively softens glue. For stubborn or extra-strength glue, add 1 cup of white vinegar.

Step Three: Remove the Glue

Put on rubber gloves, dip a sponge into your cleaning solution, and wring out excess water. Rub the sponge over the glue in small sections, allowing the solution to sit for a few minutes to soften the adhesive. Then, use the same sponge to scrub off the glue. If the glue isn’t coming off easily, use a putty knife to gently scrape it away. Be careful not to gouge or damage the wall. If needed, reapply the solution, allowing it to soak a bit longer. As a last resort, use a store-bought wallpaper glue remover, making sure to follow manufacturer instructions.

Step Four: Clean the Wall

Now that the glue is off, take a clean, damp cloth and wipe down the wall to remove excess cleaning solution. Follow up with a dry cloth to remove moisture.

Step Five: Let the Room Air Out

Let the walls dry completely for about 24 hours before painting or hanging new wallpaper. Lingering moisture can cause paint adhesion or your new wallpaper to peel. Once dry, you can remove the painter’s tape and any protective coverings if you’re not installing a new wall treatment right away.

Tip!

Browse our guide on How to Install Wallpaperfor step-by-step instructions on hanging your next design with confidence.