How to Remove Wallpaper Without Damaging Drywall (Step-by-Step)

Wallpaper removal doesn’t have to be a nightmare. The key is simple: identify what you’re dealing with, then use moisture + time to release the adhesive—so you can peel, not scrape.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the safest, most reliable way to remove wallpaper without damaging drywall, plus faster methods for peelable types and a troubleshooting section for stubborn spots.

Step 0: Identify Your Wallpaper Type (30 seconds)

Before you soak an entire wall, do this quick test:

Find a seam or corner and gently lift it.
If it peels off in large sheets, you likely have strippable/non-woven or peelable wallpaper.
If it tears into small bits, feels plastic-like, or resists water, it’s likely vinyl-coated or an older wallpaper that needs scoring + soaking.

Why it matters: Some wallpapers act like a moisture barrier. When that happens, you’ll get better results by creating tiny entry points (scoring) before soaking.

Tools You’ll Need (Most Homes Already Have These)

Drop cloths or plastic sheeting (protect floors)
Wallpaper scoring tool (perforating tool)
Spray bottle or pump sprayer
Wallpaper removal solution (or wallpaper stripper)
Putty knife / wallpaper scraper (light pressure)
Sponge + bucket of clean warm water
Optional: painter’s tape, trash bags, gloves

Pro tip: This is a “soak and peel” job. The more you rely on soaking, the less you’ll rely on scraping (and the safer your drywall will be).

Method 1 (Most Reliable): Score + Soak + Peel

Best for: vinyl-coated wallpaper, older wallpaper, stubborn adhesive

1) Protect the room

Cover floors and baseboards. Move furniture away from the wall.

2) Score the wallpaper (light pressure)

Use a scoring tool gently in a circular motion. You want tiny perforations, not deep cuts.

Drywall-safe rule: If you’re pressing hard enough to “dig in,” you’re pressing too hard.

3) Apply remover solution (work in small sections)

Spray remover solution generously. Work in small sections (about 3–4 ft wide) so you don’t over-soak drywall.

4) Let it dwell (this is where the magic happens)

Give it time to penetrate. If it dries out too quickly, re-spray.
Don’t rush this step—most wallpaper removal fails because the wall wasn’t wet long enough.

5) Peel first, scrape second

Lift an edge and peel slowly. Use a putty knife only to help lift corners or stubborn backing. Avoid gouging.

6) Re-soak stubborn areas

If it resists, stop scraping. Re-wet and wait again. More time = less damage.

7) Remove leftover glue

Spray remaining adhesive, then sponge with clean warm water until the wall feels smooth (not tacky).
Let walls dry completely before painting or installing new wallpaper.

Method 2 (Fastest): Hot Water Soak for “Wet Strippable” Wallpaper

Best for: wet strippable wallpaper that releases with water

Roll or spray hot water onto the wallpaper.
Keep it wet for 10–15 minutes, re-wetting as needed.
Lift the top edge and peel in wide strips.
If it separates into layers, peel the face layer first, then soak and remove the backing.

Tip: If it’s peeling in big sheets, keep going—this is the “easy mode” scenario.

Method 3: Steam (When Nothing Else Works)

Best for: extremely stubborn wallpaper/adhesive

Steam can help, but it also increases moisture risk. Keep the steamer moving, and work in small areas. If you’re concerned about drywall integrity, test a small section first.

The #1 Reason Wallpaper Removal Goes Wrong

Too much scraping.
If you’re scraping hard, the adhesive isn’t released yet. The safer solution is almost always:
re-wet + wait.

Quick Troubleshooting (Common Problems)

“It won’t absorb water.”
It’s likely vinyl-coated. Score lightly, then soak again.

“I’m tearing drywall paper.”
Stop scraping. Re-wet, wait longer, and peel slowly.

“Glue is still sticky after removal.”
Reapply remover solution, then wash with clean warm water until smooth.

“Some backing won’t come off.”
Backings often need a second soak. Re-wet, wait, then peel.

What to Do After Wallpaper Removal (Before Paint or New Wallpaper)

Wash off all adhesive residue
Let the wall dry fully
Patch minor damage (if any), sand smooth
Prime if you’re painting or re-wallpapering

A smooth, clean surface makes your next wall upgrade look dramatically better—and last longer.

Renter-Friendly Tip: Make the Next Change Easier

If you’re renting (or you just want a future-proof upgrade), consider peel-and-stick wallpaper next time. It’s designed for quicker install and simpler removal—no paste, no mess, no long soaking sessions.

Shop Peel & Stick Wallpaper:
/collections/peel-and-stick-wallpaper

FAQs

How long should I let remover soak?
Typically 10–15 minutes, but stubborn walls may need longer or multiple rounds.

Do I always need a scoring tool?
Not always. If your wallpaper peels in big sheets, you may not need it. If water won’t penetrate, scoring helps.

Can I remove wallpaper without damaging paint?
On properly prepped walls, careful peeling + controlled moisture gives the best chance. Always test a small area first.

Quick Checklist (Save This)

Test-peel a corner first
Score lightly if water won’t penetrate
Work in small sections
Re-wet + wait (don’t scrape aggressively)
Clean glue residue and dry fully

How to Remove Wallpaper (Without Damaging Drywall): The Step-by-Step Guide