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How to remove wallpaper

Beautiful wall with cute wallpaper.

Overview

Are you ready to redecorate but old wallpaper is in your way? Whether you’re looking to hang new wallpaper or paint the room, we’ll show you how to remove the old wallpaper so you have a clean, fresh space to create something new.

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.

Steps

1Prepare the area

Start by clearing the room of any furniture. Cover the floor with drop cloths or old towels to protect it from bits of wallpaper and any liquids. Use a screwdriver to remove any outlet covers.
Cover the floor with drop cloths.

2Score the wallpaper

If you’re working with wallpaper that doesn’t peel away easily (it might be old or have multiple layers of paint or primer, for example), you’ll need a scoring tool. This tool will help you create small perforations in the wallpaper, allowing the wallpaper remover solution to penetrate more effectively.

Hold the scoring tool against the wallpaper and apply gentle pressure as you move it across the surface, making sure to cover the entire area you plan to remove. Be careful not to press too hard to avoid damaging the wall underneath.

Use a scoring tool on the wallpaper.

3Mix the wallpaper remover solution

Mix the wallpaper remover solution (also known as wallpaper stripper) according to the instructions on the product label. If you prefer a homemade, eco-friendly solution, mix equal parts hot water and white vinegar in a bucket. The acid in the vinegar helps to loosen the wallpaper adhesive.
Pouring wallpaper stripper into a bucket.

4Apply the remover to the wallpaper

Use a sponge, spray bottle or garden sprayer to apply the wallpaper remover solution to the wallpaper. Make sure you saturate the surface thoroughly, but avoid soaking, as it can damage the underlying wall. Allow the solution to soak into the wallpaper for 10 to 15 minutes. This gives it time to penetrate the adhesive, making the removal process easier.
Green Bunnings hammer
Tip: To avoid the solution drying out prematurely, work in small sections.
Applying wallpaper remover with sprayer.

5Scrape off the wallpaper

Once the wallpaper has soaked, use your wallpaper scraper or a putty knife to gently lift a corner or seam of the wallpaper. Gently and slowly peel back the wallpaper at a 45-degree angle. If you’re encountering some resistance, reapply the remover solution and let it soak for a few more minutes.
Scraping off the wallpaper with a wallpaper scraper.

6Use a wallpaper steamer

Another option for removing wallpaper is to use a wallpaper steamer. Follow the manufacturer's set-up instructions. Fill the steamer with water and allow it to heat up. Once the steamer is ready, hold the steam pad against the wallpaper for about 10 to 15 seconds, allowing the steam to penetrate the wallpaper and soften the adhesive.

Follow the steamed area with your wallpaper scraper or putty knife to lift a seam of the wallpaper. Gently and slowly peel back the wallpaper at a 45-degree angle. If the wallpaper doesn't come off easily, reapply the steam for a few more seconds and try again.

Green Bunnings hammer
Tip: It’s a good idea to work in small sections to ensure the wallpaper remains damp. This will make it easier to remove.
Removing wallpaper using a steamer and scraper.

7Clean the wall

Once you’ve removed the wallpaper and adhesive glue using the wallpaper remover solution or steamer, clean the walls with warm water or sugar soap to remove any remaining residue. Allow the walls to dry completely and then reinstall the outlet covers. Now you’re ready to paint or hang new wallpaper.
Cleaning the walls with sugar soap wipes.

8Now that you’ve removed your wallpaper...

Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.