How to Remove Wallpaper Without Damaging Your Walls

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Removing old wallpaper can seem like a daunting task, especially if you’re worried about damaging the walls underneath. But with the right approach, wallpaper removal can be smooth, efficient, and leave your walls ready for a fresh new look. Whether you’re dealing with decades-old wallpaper or a more recent installation, careful preparation and technique are key to protecting your walls during the process.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to remove wallpaper without causing unnecessary damage.

Step 1: Gather the Right Tools

Before you start, make sure you have everything you need:

  • Drop cloths or plastic sheeting

  • A wallpaper scraper or putty knife (plastic is safer for walls)

  • A scoring tool

  • A spray bottle filled with warm water or a wallpaper removal solution

  • Sponges or cloths

  • A ladder (for reaching higher areas)

  • Gloves and safety goggles

Having the right tools ready will make the process easier and help you avoid rushing or using inappropriate items that could harm your walls.

Step 2: Prep the Room

Wallpaper removal can get messy, so take time to prepare:

  • Move furniture out of the way or cover it with drop cloths.

  • Protect floors with plastic sheeting or old towels.

  • Turn off the electricity and remove outlet and switch covers if wallpaper is near them.

Taking a few minutes to prep will save you clean-up time later and help prevent accidental wall damage.

Step 3: Test a Small Area

Not all wallpapers are created equal—some are strippable and come off easily, while others require more work.

  • Find a corner or edge and try peeling the wallpaper by hand.

  • If it comes off easily, you may not need much water or solution.

  • If it resists, you’ll need to move on to soaking and scraping.

Knowing what you’re dealing with before tackling the entire wall can help you adjust your method and protect your walls.

Step 4: Score the Wallpaper

Use a wallpaper scoring tool to create small holes or perforations across the surface of the wallpaper.

  • Gently roll the tool across the wallpaper in circular motions.

  • Be careful not to press too hard; you want to pierce the wallpaper, not gouge the drywall underneath.

Scoring helps the water or removal solution penetrate better and makes lifting the wallpaper easier.

Step 5: Soak the Wallpaper

Spray the wallpaper liberally with warm water or a specially formulated wallpaper removal solution.

  • Allow it to soak for 15–20 minutes.

  • Keep the surface moist without oversaturating, which could damage the wall.

Softened adhesive is much easier to scrape off, minimizing the risk of tearing into the drywall.

Step 6: Start Scraping

Use a plastic scraper or putty knife to gently lift and peel the wallpaper away:

  • Work slowly and steadily.

  • Keep the blade as flat as possible against the wall to avoid gouging.

  • Reapply water as needed if the wallpaper dries out while you’re working.

Patience is key—rushing or forcing it will increase the risk of damaging the underlying surface.

Step 7: Remove Adhesive Residue

After the wallpaper is off, you’ll likely have glue residue left behind:

  • Use warm water mixed with a little vinegar or a mild dish soap solution.

  • Sponge the walls gently, allowing the solution to loosen the glue.

  • Rinse and wipe clean with fresh water.

Skipping this step can lead to poor paint adhesion later, so be thorough.

Step 8: Inspect and Repair

Once the wall is clean and dry, inspect it carefully:

  • Look for any small nicks or dings caused during the process.

  • Fill imperfections with lightweight spackle and sand smooth once dry.

  • Prime the wall if you’re planning to repaint or apply new wallpaper.

Proper post-removal care ensures that your walls are truly ready for their next makeover.

  • Work in sections to keep the surface manageable.

  • Maintain patience—slow and steady wins the race.

  • Always opt for gentle tools and techniques first before using anything more aggressive.

By following these steps carefully, you can complete wallpaper removal without leaving behind holes, gouges, or other damage, giving you the perfect clean slate for a beautiful new wall treatment.