How to Remove Wallpaper Without Damaging Your Walls

Wallpaper removal is often viewed as a nightmare project, but the frustration usually comes from trying to rip dry, stubborn paper off the wall. When you force dry paper, you peel away the paper face of your drywall, leaving behind a scarred, uneven surface that requires hours of patching and sanding to fix. Done well, removal is a methodical process of hydration. By scoring the surface and allowing a solution to penetrate the adhesive, you turn a destructive task into a clean peeling process. This guide focuses on preserving the integrity of your substrate so that once the wallpaper is gone, you are ready for a fresh coat of paint or new wall covering immediately.

Protect Your Space First. Remove all furniture from the room and cover the floor with heavy-duty drop cloths. Use painter's tape to seal the baseboards and any electrical outlet covers after turning off the power to the room.
Perforate, Don't Puncture. Use a wallpaper scoring tool to lightly perforate the paper in circular motions. Do not press hard; you only need to create small holes for the solution to reach the paste behind the paper.
Mix Your Secret Weapon. Combine hot water with a cup of white vinegar and a tablespoon of liquid dish soap in a pump sprayer. The vinegar breaks down the adhesive, while the soap helps the water soak into the paper.
Soak It Thoroughly. Spray the wall in manageable 3-by-3-foot sections. Let the solution sit for 10 to 15 minutes, re-spraying if the paper begins to dry out before you start peeling.
Peel Slow and Steady. Use a wide putty knife or a plastic scraper to lift a corner of the wallpaper. Pull the paper slowly at a sharp angle toward you, keeping it as close to the wall as possible to maintain a clean release.
Finish the Job Clean. Once the paper is gone, spray any remaining glue residue with the solution and wipe it off with a damp sponge or scouring pad. Dry the wall thoroughly with a clean towel to prevent moisture damage to the drywall.