How to Remove Wallpaper in Simple Ways? Easy Guide 

How to remove wallpaper

If you want to give your wall a completely new look, then you first need to learn how to remove wallpaper in simple ways. You do not need to hire a professional for this task, it is a simple DIY project which you can complete in a day. 

In this blog, Arabic Curtains will show you how to remove wallpaper effortlessly no matter of which type. There is no universal way to remove wallpaper, but we will find out what you need to do to strip your wall coverings without damaging the wall’s surface. 

Pre-Preparation To Make Before You Start

Before you start with the actual procedure of how to remove wallpaper in simple ways, you need to make certain pre-preparations that are given below: 

  • Clean The Wall And Room

The first step in preparing for living room wallpaper removal is to clear the space. You can start by removing hangings from the wall. Then you have to shift your furniture upholstery to the room’s center or outside room. You can also cover the furniture upholstery with drop clothes to protect it from getting wet. 

  • Protect Your Floors and Electrical Outlets 

Since you will spray water onto the wall, you must first protect your high quality flooring, electrical outlets and premium carpets so that they don’t get damaged. For this purpose, you can lay down a plastic painter’s tarp and secure it with painter’s tape. Also, make sure the main electricity switch of your home is powered off.  

  • Determine Your Wall And Wallpaper Type 

Before you start peeling, it is advised to determine whether you have a drywall or plaster wall. Do not over soak the drywall, as it will be damaged if it gets too wet. 

  • Do pretesting by using a knife to loosen a concern of wallpaper and then try to peel it off. If it comes off, then you have a stripping wallpaper, and if it does not, it is some other type of wallpaper. 
  • If there is a paper backing on the wall, then it is a peelable wallpaper.  
  • In case you have a traditional wallpaper, prepare yourself to use water and chemical stripper. 

Type 1: Strippable Wallpaper Removal 

The following steps are involved in removing stripping wallpaper. Be careful at each step. 

how to remove wallpaper

Step 1. Collecting Material 

For strippable wallpaper removal, you will need the following material. 

  • Soap
  • Water
  • Rags
  • Putty Knife 

Step 2. Loosen the Wallpaper Corner

First, you will require a putty knife to lift the corner of the paper. Now use your hand to accurately peel the paper from the wall. Try not to tear the paper and pull it from as close to the wall as possible. When you see it is not ripping, try from another corner. Repeat the process again and again until you finish the entire room. 

Step 3. Wall Cleaning

When you remove the whole paper, clean the walls with warm water and soap residue. Now, wait a little, and let the wall dry before installing another wallpaper.

Type 2: Traditional Wallpaper Removal 

Removing traditional wallpaper is a lengthy yet easy task. You need to stay careful and confident at every step. 

Step 1. Material Collection 

You will be required to do the following material. 

  • Putty knife or Scraper
  • Ladder
  • Water
  • Soap
  • Rags
  • Paint Roller
  • Spray Bottle
  • Scoring Tool
  • Rubber Gloves 
  • Wallpaper Striper

Step 2. Mixing The Solution 

Mix wallpaper strippers and hot water according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Mix well and pour the mixture into a spray bottle. 

Step 3. Solution Application 

Once you are done mixing the solution, apply it to a small section of the wall. Wait for the solution to sit properly. 

Step 4. Peel Off The Wallpaper 

Now peel off the wallpaper and once you are done from one section, move on to the next area.

Step 5. Wall Cleaning 

Wipe down the walls with water and soap to remove any residue. If you see tiny holes in the wall, consider using spackling paste to fill them. Wait until it dries. Use sandpaper to remove any protrusions. 

Type 3: Peel-Off Wallpaper Removal

Following are the steps involved in removing peel-off wallpaper. 

Step 1. Gather Material Required


You need to get accurate material to get professional results. Here is the list of products:

  • Putty knife
  • Ladder
  • Water
  • Soap
  • Rags
  • Paint Roller
  • Spray Bottle
  • Scoring Tool
  • Rubber Gloves 

Step 2. Top Layer Removal 

Start by peeling off the first layer of wallpaper, then lose its corner with a putty knife. In case it is stuck, you can apply warm water to it with the help of a spray bottle or a sponge. This is highly simple and easy. 

Step 3. Backing Removal 

If you see backing on the wall, you can apply steam or warm water to remove it. Wait for 10 minutes, then clean it with a sponge. You can also use a liquid wallpaper remover spray for this. 

Final Words 

This is an easy guide on how to remove wallpaper in simple ways. It is not rocket science; it is a simple DIY project. Ensure you know the type of wallpaper you are dealing with. It will make your work easy and fast-going.