How to Remove Wallpaper? - A Comprehensive Guide by Adawall

Removing wallpaper can seem daunting, but with the right approach and tools, it becomes a manageable task. Whether you're preparing your walls for a fresh coat of paint or new wallpaper, understanding the proper techniques is crucial. At Adawall, we believe in empowering our customers with the knowledge to maintain and refresh their spaces with confidence.
Why Remove Wallpaper?
Over time, wallpaper can become outdated, worn, or simply no longer suit your interior style. Removing old wallpaper allows you to:
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Refresh your room with a new design
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Fix imperfections or wall damage hidden beneath
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Apply new wallpaper or paint cleanly and smoothly
Whether you're updating to one of Adawall’s modern embossed wallpapers or switching styles entirely, preparation starts here.
Common Challenges in Wallpaper Removal
Removing wallpaper isn’t always as simple as peeling it off. Here are a few issues that might arise:
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Multiple Layers: Older walls may have layers upon layers of wallpaper.
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Strong Adhesives: Some wallpapers were installed using industrial-strength glue.
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Wall Damage Risk: Rushing the process can lead to scratches or gouges in your drywall or plaster.
At Adawall, we design our wallcoverings to be both long-lasting and user-friendly—even when it’s time for a change.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Before starting, gather these essential items:
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Wallpaper Steamer – to loosen adhesive on stubborn areas
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Putty Knife or Scraper – for lifting and scraping off wallpaper
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Scoring Tool – to help removal solution penetrate
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Spray Bottle – for applying your chosen solution
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Protective Gloves and Glasses – to keep things safe and clean
These tools help ensure your removal process is smooth and damage-free.
Step-by-Step Wallpaper Removal Process
1. Prepare the Room
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Move furniture away from walls and cover floors with a drop cloth.
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Protect outlets and baseboards with painter’s tape.
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Turn off electricity when working around sockets or switches.
2. Test the Wallpaper Type
Check if your wallpaper is:
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Strippable – peels off easily in large sheets
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Peelable – top layer comes off, backing remains
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Traditional – needs moisture and effort to remove
Adawall wallpapers often fall under peelable or strippable, making them easier to update.
3. Apply a Wallpaper Removal Solution
For traditional or peelable wallpapers:
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Use a store-bought remover or a DIY mix of warm water + vinegar or fabric softener.
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Spray generously and wait 15–20 minutes.
4. Score the Wallpaper (If Needed)
If the solution isn’t soaking in:
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Lightly run a scoring tool over the wallpaper surface to help the solution penetrate the adhesive.
5. Steam the Wallpaper
For extra-stubborn adhesives:
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Use a wallpaper steamer to apply heat.
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This helps loosen glue and makes peeling easier.
6. Peel and Scrape
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Start from a seam and use your putty knife to slowly lift and peel the paper.
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Work in small sections to avoid wall damage.
7. Remove Adhesive Residue
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Use warm water and a sponge, or an adhesive remover, to clean the wall.
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Rinse and dry the wall thoroughly.
8. Repair and Prep the Surface
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Fill small holes or scratches with spackle, sand smooth, and let dry.
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Your walls are now ready for a new coat of Adawall luxury wallpaper or paint.
Tips for Easy and Safe Wallpaper Removal
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Always work in small areas so the solution doesn’t dry too fast
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Take your time—rushing can damage your wall
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Use proper tools like steamers and scrapers to make it easier
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Don’t forget to protect your floors and outlets
Why Adawall Wallpapers Are Easier to Maintain and Replace
Adawall wallpapers are known for their luxury textures, embossed finishes, and easy-to-work-with materials. Designed with both beauty and functionality in mind, our wallcoverings offer:
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Durable surfaces that are less prone to tearing
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Easier peelability for future removal
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Moisture and scrub-resistant options
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Styles that stay relevant beyond trends
While brands like Graham & Brown or Farrow & Ball offer classic styles, Adawall specializes in high-end, functional wallcoverings for modern homes and interiors.
Ready to Redecorate? Explore Adawall’s Collections
After removing your old wallpaper, there’s no better time to browse Adawall’s luxurious and trend-setting designs. From geometric prints to nature-inspired textures, we offer:
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Embossed wallpapers
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Textured wallcoverings
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Leaf, floral, and abstract patterns
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Rustic minimalism to bold modern looks
Shop online at adawalls.com and order free samples to find your perfect fit.
For premium wallpaper options and expert decorating tips, visit adawalls.com today. Let your next design project begin with the confidence of Adawall quality.