How do you remove wall paper?

Marcia
by Marcia

Small kitchen has disgusting wall paper on it for over 30 years (previous owner). Is there a way I can do this slowly, a piece at a time, or do I need to hire someone to get it done in a few days? Noone seems to want to do it, even for money!!!!!!

  6 answers
  • Dee Dee on Dec 11, 2018

    Use a paper tiger tool to score the wallpaper. In a spray bottle, mix fabric softener with water, spray the wall and let sit for about 15 minutes. Then use a scraper, the wall paper will come off effortlessly.

  • Heje Heje on Dec 11, 2018

    I wish I lived near you - I would do it. I use warm water and fabric softener and a scraper to take it off. Sometimes it comes off in big pieces and sometimes in small. It is a joy to see it come off and reveal the wall beneath. The wall will need to be washed when done to remove any leftover residue. Then it is ready for a beautiful coat of paint.

  • Rebecca Taylor Rebecca Taylor on Dec 11, 2018

    Hi Marcia, stir 1 cap-full liquid softener into 1 quart (1 liter) water and sponge the solution onto the wallpaper. Let it soak in for 20 minutes, then scrape the paper from the wall. If the wallpaper has a water-resistant coating, score it with a wire-bristle brush before treating with the fabric softener solution. You should be able to do it in sections.

  • William William on Dec 11, 2018

    I use a 50/50 mix of vinegar and hot water in a spray bottle. Spray the wallpaper and let it soften the paper and glue. Use a putty knife to scrape the wallpaper off. Use the same mixture to wash off any adhesive residue. You can do it in a few days or take your time one wall at a time.

  • Rosalie Peck Rosalie Peck on Dec 11, 2018

    you can probably find a loose corner and start pulling it off. steam/ hot water can help loosen stubborn pieces. it is a dirty job so i suggest you do it all at once and then do a cleaning job before you redecorate. i'd plan on eating out so i didn't have to cook in the mess. it just requires patience.

    • Marcia Marcia on Dec 11, 2018

      I tried pulling it off any only a few pieces came off. Now looks worse! Pulling off is not a good idea. But the rest of your suggestions will probably work. Tx

  • Score and steam. This method has always worked best, at least for me.


    https://www.lowes.com/projects/paint-stain-and-wallpaper/remove-old-wallpaper/project


    Removing wallpaper professionally is not cheap. If you are on Nextdoor.com, ask your neighbors who they have used.


    Being up 30 years, it might be easier than you think to take down. Give it a try yourself.