How to remove wallpaper easily

If you're thinking about renovating a room, one of the first questions that often arises is how to remove wallpaper quickly and without damaging the wall.

Although it may seem like a complicated task at first glance, there are simple and effective methods that anyone can try. The key is to prepare the surface well and know what type of wallpaper you have on your wall, as not all wallpapers remove equally.

Why it is important to know how to remove wallpaper

Many people choose to paint over old wallpaper to save time, but this practice creates more problems than solutions. The paper can peel off with the moisture from the paint, leaving bubbles and an uneven finish.

Plus, glue residue or joints often remain visible, ruining the final result. Therefore, learning how to remove wallpaper properly is the first step to achieving smooth walls ready for a new design.

When it is advisable to remove it and not paint over it

It's not always necessary to jump straight to the brush or roller. There are situations where removing the paper is the best decision:

• when the paper is damaged, cracked, stained or raised.
  
• when you want to apply washable paint or a new coating that requires a uniform surface.
  
• when there are traces of moisture or mold behind the paper and it is advisable to check the wall.
  
• when looking for a professional and long-lasting finish.

Types of wallpaper and their difficulty of removal

Before you begin the task of removing wallpaper, it's essential to know what type of wall covering you have. Traditional wallpaper isn't the same as vinyl or self-adhesive wallpaper.

Everyone responds differently to water, steam, or specific products, and choosing the right method from the start can save you a lot of effort.

Traditional wallpaper

This is the most common type of adhesive in older homes and is usually attached with cellulose glue. In most cases, simply moistening it with warm soapy water softens it and makes it easy to remove.

Of course, it's best to do it in small sections to prevent the wall from drying out prematurely. This type of wallpaper is ideal for beginners if you want to learn step-by-step how to remove wallpaper without complications.

Washable vinyl paper

More modern and durable, it has a plastic coating that protects it from moisture and makes daily cleaning easier. Precisely because of this waterproof coating, it's harder to remove, as water doesn't penetrate well.

The most effective technique is to lightly scratch the surface with a special tool, apply paper removers, or use an electric steamer. If you don't scratch the surface first, the liquid will have no effect and the process will become tedious.

Textile or embossed wallpaper

This is a higher-quality decorative covering that adds texture and volume. Because it's made with thicker fibers or layers, it's usually more durable but also more difficult to remove.

In these cases, steam is the best option, as it penetrates the fibers better and softens the glue. It requires more patience and delicacy to avoid damaging the wall during the process.

Self-adhesive wallpaper

Very popular in recent years, this type of paper doesn't require glue because it has an adhesive built into the back. Removing it is, in principle, easier: just peel it off from a corner and pull gently.

However, it sometimes leaves glue residue that's difficult to remove, especially if it's been in place for a long time. To resolve this, you can use warm soapy water or specific adhesive products.

Necessary tools and materials

One of the keys to ensuring that the process of removing wallpaper doesn't become a nightmare is to have the right tools from the start. You don't need a professional arsenal, but you do need some basic tools that will make the task much easier and help you achieve a clean result.

Spatula or scraper

This is the essential tool for removing wallpaper. It should have a straight edge and be strong enough to scrape without bending. If you choose a spatula that's too stiff, you risk damaging the plaster, while a more flexible one is ideal for sliding under the softened paper.

Roller or sprayer with water

Water is your best friend when it comes to removing wallpaper. To apply it evenly, you can use a damp roller or a handheld sprayer . The important thing is to thoroughly moisten the surface without soaking it, allowing the liquid to penetrate the paste to soften it gradually.

Paper and solvent removal products

There are specific solutions on the market that speed up the task. They are diluted in water and applied with a roller or sprayer, allowing the adhesive to dissolve more quickly. Although they are not always essential, they are very useful when the paper is very sticky or when the vinyl prevents the water from acting on its own.

Electric vaporizer

Not everyone has one at home, but it's a very effective tool for the most complicated cases. The hot steam penetrates directly into the glue and allows you to lift the wallpaper with less effort. It's especially recommended for walls covered with multiple layers of wallpaper or heavy-duty vinyl wallpaper.

Protective plastic and masking tape

Preparing the space is just as important as knowing how to remove wallpaper. Place plastic sheets on the floor and protect baseboards, electrical outlets, or door frames with masking tape. This way, you'll avoid water stains, glue residue, or accidental scratches.

Preparing the room before removing wallpaper

One of the most important steps when you decide to learn how to remove wallpaper is to properly prepare the space. It may seem like a minor detail, but protecting the surroundings will prevent damage, dirt, and unnecessary scares. A well-conditioned room will allow you to work comfortably and, most importantly, without damaging the flooring or furniture.

Protect the floor and furniture

Before you start wetting the walls or using the steamer, lay down plastic sheets or old sheets on the floor. Ideally, secure them with masking tape so they don't move while you work. If there's furniture you can't move out of the room, cover it as well. Remember that removing wallpaper always leaves wet bits of glue and residue that can permanently stain.

Turn off the electricity at sockets and switches

A common mistake when looking for how to remove wallpaper is neglecting electrical outlets. Working with water near outlets or switches without turning off the power can be dangerous. It's best to unplug the power at the electrical panel and, if possible, remove the outlet and switch covers to prevent moisture damage.

Remove boxes, switches and sockets

It seems obvious, but it's often overlooked. Before dampening the walls, remove pictures, lamps, mirrors, or any other decorative accessories. Also, take the opportunity to remove light switch and outlet covers: it will make your work much easier and achieve a clean finish without paper residue around those items.

Main methods for removing wallpaper

At this point, it's time to get down to business. There are several techniques for removing wallpaper, each with its own advantages depending on the type of material and the condition of the wall. There's no single universal method; it's best to know them all to choose the most appropriate one for your situation.

Soap and water method

This is the most classic and economical method. It consists of moistening the paper with a mixture of warm water and a little neutral soap or mild detergent. After waiting a few minutes, the glue softens and you can scrape it off with a spatula. It works very well on traditional papers, although vinyl papers usually require scraping beforehand to allow the water to penetrate.

Electric steamer method

When looking for a quick and effective finish, steam is a great ally. An electric steamer projects heat and moisture directly onto the paper, softening the glue almost immediately. It's perfect for walls with multiple layers of paper or heavy-duty vinyl coverings.

The disadvantage is that it requires a specific device, although it can be rented at hardware or DIY stores.

Method with paper remover chemicals

Another option is to use wallpaper removal solutions, which are usually available in liquid or concentrated form. They are diluted in water and applied with a roller or sprayer. Their formula is designed to dissolve the adhesive more quickly than water alone, making the job much easier.

It is recommended for very sticky papers or when steam is not sufficient.

Dry method for self-adhesive papers

Modern self-adhesive papers allow for easier removal. In many cases, simply peel off a corner and pull it off slowly. However, adhesive residue is almost always left behind, which must be removed with warm water, soap, or a specific adhesive product. This method is the cleanest, though not always the fastest.

Step by step how to remove wallpaper with soap and water

The simplest and most economical method for learning how to remove wallpaper is with soap and water. It doesn't require special equipment or harsh chemicals, and it works wonders on most traditional wallpapers. However, it's important to do it patiently and follow a sequence so that the result is clean and the wall is ready for the next step.

Moisten the wall correctly

The first step is to prepare a mixture of warm water with a few drops of neutral soap or mild detergent. Using a spray bottle or roller, moisten the surface evenly. The goal is not to soak it until it drips, but rather to ensure that the paper absorbs the liquid well to soften the glue.

A useful trick is to start with a small area, about half a square meter, and work from top to bottom. This way, you prevent the wall from drying out before you scrape.

Wait for the absorption time

Once wet, let the mixture sit for a few minutes. Normally, wait 10 to 15 minutes, although for very thick papers, you may need to reapply. This time is crucial: if you rush, the adhesive will remain hard and will be more difficult to remove.

In the meantime, take the opportunity to prepare your tools or check if the paper is absorbing water well. If you notice that the water runs off, it's probably vinyl; in that case, you'll need to lightly scratch the surface to allow the liquid to penetrate.

Scrape with a spatula without damaging the wall

When you notice the paper starting to peel off, use a spatula or scraper to lift it from a corner. Do this with firm but careful movements, taking care not to dig the tool into the plaster. If any part remains stuck, rewet it and wait a few more minutes before continuing.

Ideally, you should remove the paper in strips, moving slowly. Don't try to tear off large pieces at once, as they're more likely to tear and end up being slower.

Step by step how to remove wallpaper with a steamer

When soap and water aren't enough, steam becomes your best ally. Using an electric steamer is a very effective technique for learning how to remove wallpaper from multi-layered walls or resistant vinyl coverings. The heat softens the paste in seconds and allows the paper to be removed with much less force.

How to use the steam engine

The steamer's operation is simple: just fill the water tank, wait for it to heat up, and place the steam panel on the wall. Typically, holding it for 10 to 15 seconds in the same area is enough to soften the adhesive. Then, lift the paper with a spatula, moving slowly until the entire surface is covered.

A practical tip is to work in vertical strips of half a meter, alternating between applying steam and scraping. This will prevent the water from cooling and the glue from hardening again.

Safety precautions

Although steam is very useful, it also carries certain risks. The heat generated by the machine can cause burns, so it's best to wear heavy-duty gloves and keep your skin away from the steam outlet. Also, be sure to ventilate the room well to prevent excessive moisture buildup.

Another important recommendation is not to apply the steamer for too long on the same spot, as excessive heat could damage the plaster or even warp the plasterboard surface.

Conclusion

At Brikum, where our priority is to offer reliable, high-quality, and affordable tools for DIY enthusiasts and professionals, we want to close this guide by reminding you that learning how to remove wallpaper is more than just a chore; it's a small, highly rewarding domestic endeavor.

Summary of the most effective methods

In this guide we have explained several useful and proven techniques:

• the soap and water method: ideal for traditional and economical papers.
  
• the electric steamer: powerful and effective for tough or multi-layer papers.
  
• Wallpaper removal products: speed up the process when the glue is very sticky.
  
• The dry method: perfect for self-adhesive papers, although it may require cleaning off the glue afterwards.
  

These methods respond to different needs, basic equipment, speed, precision, comfort, and at Brikum we offer you everything you need to carry them out successfully, from spatulas and sprayers to vaporizers from brands such as Black & Decker , Makita or Dewalt .  

Final recommendation for choosing the best procedure

Every wall has its own story: the type of wallpaper, its condition, and the substrate it's used to support it vary, so each situation requires a tailored solution. Take the time to thoroughly analyze the covering before acting.

At Brikum, we know that good preparation makes everything flow better; that's why we insist on planning well, arming ourselves with the right tools, and acting calmly.

Remember that mastering how to remove wallpaper not only gives you clean walls for painting or wallpapering, but also gives you the confidence of knowing you've done it right. And when you need something more— sanding , removing electrical outlets, or protecting your floor—you'll find everything you need to complete the job without any problems in our online store.