Wallpaper Removal Methods
Three common methods are typically used to remove wallpaper borders.
Ensure you have enough space to set up a step ladder along the wallpapered walls.
Carefully climb the step ladder with the hairdryer and apply heat to the wallpaper border.
Credit: Brian McWeeney
Continue heating and peeling along the length of the border until it has all been removed.
Move any furniture and appliances away from the walls.
Lay drop cloths to protect the floor and any nearby objects from drips and splatters of stripping solution.
Credit:Better Homes & Gardens
Make enough space for a step ladder.
Use a step ladder to lessen the strain on your arms, shoulders, neck, and back.
Choose a commercial wallpaper stripper, which typically comes premixed and prepackaged, for a more potent option.
Liquid fabric softener mixed with equal parts warm water is an alternative for a less pungent DIY stripping solution.
In this case, you’ll need to score the wallpaper border.
This process allows the stripping solution to soak through the perforations to loosen the adhesive backing.
Climb up the step ladder and spray the starting edge of the wallpaper border with the stripping solution.
Step 5: Peel Off Border
Dont rush the process.
There are specialized tools called wallpaper steamers specifically made for this purpose.
Move any furniture or appliances out of the way.
Put down drop cloths to protect your floor and make cleanup easier.
Leave enough space around the perimeter of the room for a step ladder.
Use a step ladder to reduce the strain on your arms, shoulders, neck, and back.
Step 2: Steam the Wallpaper Border
Fill the steamer and plug it in.
Wait until the steamer is hot enough, then position the paddle on the starting edge of the wallpaper.
Use your fingers or a scraping tool to peel the corner of the wallpaper off the wall.
Residual adhesive may be stuck to the walls after the border is peeled off.
Fill a bucket with warm water and use a scouring pad or sponge toclean lingering glue offthe walls.
Remove objects in the cord’s path so it doesnt get tangled or wrapped around anything while working.
Also, use caution when working with any stripping solution.
Read the manufacturers directions and take proper precautions to avoid injuring yourself or anyone nearby.
Yes, wallpaper borders can be removed using vinegar.
We recommend mixing equal parts apple cider vinegar with warm water to create a natural stripping solution.
To avoid disruptive texture, remove a wallpaper border before repainting a space.
