Removing old wallpaper can feel overwhelming, especially if it is textured or embossed. Many homeowners worry about damaging their drywall, creating a mess, or spending hours peeling tiny strips off. The good news is this: with the right method, high-quality tools, and a little patience, you can remove any type of wallpaper safely—including embossed wallpaper, vinyl wallpaper, peel-and-stick wallpaper, and traditional pasted wallpaper.

This guide walks you through the most effective, highly searched, and expert-approved methods for removing old wallpaper. Whether you are preparing your space for new premium embossed wallpaper from Adawall, or simply refreshing your interior, these techniques ensure a smooth, damage-free result.

Why Removing Old Wallpaper Properly Matters

Many U.S. homeowners search for answers like:

“How to remove textured wallpaper”
“How to remove wallpaper without damaging drywall”
“How to remove old vinyl wallpaper”
“Best way to remove wallpaper glue”
“Easiest wallpaper removal method”

The truth is, rushing the process often leads to:

• Torn drywall

• Uneven surfaces

• Adhesive residue

• Visible bumps under new wallpaper

At Adawall, we always recommend removing old wallpaper completely before applying new designs. High-quality wallpaper—especially luxury embossed wallpaper—needs a smooth base to look its best. Otherwise, even the most expensive pattern loses its elegance.

Step 1: Identify Your Existing Wallpaper Type

Before removing anything, determine what type of wallpaper is on your wall. Each material removes differently.

1. Embossed Wallpaper (Textured Wallpaper)

Embossed wallpaper is thicker and may have a vinyl or paper backing. The raised texture traps more paste, so it may require extra soaking.

2. Vinyl Wallpaper

Very common in U.S. homes. The top layer usually peels off easily, but the backing sticks firmly to the wall.

3. Peel & Stick Wallpaper

This is the easiest to remove. Most peel-and-stick wallpapers lift off without water or chemicals.

4. Traditional Pasted Wallpaper

Older homes often have this type. It typically requires a combination of scoring and soaking.

If you do not know your wallpaper type, try lifting a corner:

• If it peels in large sheets: vinyl or peel-and-stick.

• If it tears or feels papery: traditional or embossed.

Step 2: Gather the Right Tools

While some blogs recommend using anything you have at home, industry leaders like Adawall, Home Depot DIY guides, and Wallpaper Warehouse tutorials all emphasize using the correct supplies.

You will need:

• Wallpaper scoring tool

• Spray bottle or garden sprayer

• Warm water

• Wallpaper removal solution (or vinegar + water mixture)

• Plastic scraper or putty knife

• Drop cloth

• Sponge and bucket

• Optional: steam wallpaper remover

These tools prevent damage to drywall and help loosen adhesive quickly.

Step 3: Score the Wallpaper (Optional but Highly Effective)

Scoring creates tiny holes so moisture can penetrate the wallpaper layers more easily.

For embossed wallpaper or vinyl wallpaper, this step is essential because water cannot penetrate the top layer.

Do not apply too much pressure—light circular motions are enough.

Step 4: Soak the Wallpaper Thoroughly

The soaking process is where most people make mistakes. Light spraying is not enough.
To soften adhesive properly:

Mix This Solution:

• Warm water

• Wallpaper removal concentrate
  Or

• Warm water + 1 cup white vinegar

Apply generously with a sprayer and let it sit for 15–20 minutes.

You will know it's ready when:

• The wallpaper darkens

• Bubbles appear

• Edges lift on their own

This step works especially well for textured embossed wallpaper, which absorbs more moisture once scored.

Step 5: Peel the Wallpaper Off Slowly

Start from a loose corner and pull downward at a 45-degree angle.

If pieces tear:

• Spray again

• Wait a few minutes

• Scrape gently

Avoid pulling too harshly, as it may damage the drywall. Most professional installers—including those whose work you see in high-end design brands—recommend slow removal for best results.

Step 6: Use a Steamer for Stubborn Wallpaper

If the wallpaper is older than 10–15 years or has multiple layers, a steam wallpaper remover is incredibly effective.

Steam loosens the glue within seconds and is especially useful for:

• Embossed wallpaper with deep texture

• Vintage wallpaper

• Wallpaper installed with strong adhesives

While brands like Lowe’s recommend steamers as an optional tool, Adawall experts consider them essential for difficult removals.

Step 7: Remove Adhesive Residue Completely

Even after the wallpaper is removed, adhesive may remain.
This is especially common with:

• Vinyl wallpaper backing

• Textured wallpaper

• Older adhesive types

Create a mixture of warm water + a few drops of dish soap and scrub with a sponge.
A perfectly clean, smooth surface is crucial before installing new wallpaper—especially luxury embossed designs, which show every detail.

Step 8: Prepare the Surface for New Wallpaper

Once the wall is clean:

• Let it dry completely

• Lightly sand any imperfections

• Apply primer if installing new wallpaper

Adawall always recommends priming the wall before installing premium wallpaper. It ensures easier future removal and improves adhesion.

Why Adawall Wallpaper Is Easier to Remove and Install

Unlike many textured wallpaper brands that use heavy coatings, Adawall’s embossed wallpaper is engineered for easier installation and removal thanks to:

1. Advanced Non-Woven Backing

Prevents damage to walls during removal.

2. Breathable, Mold-Resistant Structure

Moisture doesn’t get trapped, making it easier to loosen.

3. High-Quality Adhesive Compatibility

Adhesive softens quickly when treated with warm water.

4. Premium Thickness

Peels off in larger sheets, reducing removal time.

While other brands like Brewster Home Fashions and York Wallcoverings offer good quality, Adawall’s materials are specifically designed to be durable yet removable, making renovation easier years later.

Final Thoughts

Removing old wallpaper does not need to be stressful. With the right approach—scoring, soaking, steaming, and cleaning—you can safely remove any type of wallpaper, from embossed to vinyl.

After the removal process, you have the perfect opportunity to refresh your walls with Adawall’s premium embossed wallpaper, known for its durability, style, and easy installation.