How do I remove old wallpaper easily?

Perforate the wallpaper with a scoring tool, saturate it with a loosening solution, and scrape it away section by section.

Use a dedicated wallpaper steamer to drive hot steam through the paper and dissolve the adhesive without chemicals.

Test whether your wallpaper is dry-strippable by lifting a corner. If it peels off in large sheets without water or steam, simply pull it off the wall.

Before choosing a removal method, assess your wallpaper type, adhesive condition, and wall substrate to select the most effective approach and avoid costly damage.

Hire a professional painter or wallpaper removal specialist to handle the entire process, including surface preparation for painting.

Use a heat gun to soften adhesive on stubborn wallpaper sections or vinyl wallpaper that resists water-based methods.

Rent a professional wallpaper steamer from a hardware store or tool rental center for a fraction of the purchase price.

Use Zinsser DIF, the industry-standard commercial wallpaper remover, to enzymatically break down wallpaper adhesive for easy removal.

Apply very hot water with a few drops of dish soap to scored wallpaper to soften and release the adhesive using the simplest possible ingredients.

Use an equal-parts mixture of white vinegar and hot water as a natural, chemical-free wallpaper remover.

Mix liquid fabric softener with hot water and apply to scored wallpaper to dissolve the adhesive with a common household product.

A professional painter or wallpaper specialist will remove old wallpaper, clean the adhesive residue, and prepare the walls for painting or new wallpaper. This is the right call for large rooms, multiple layers, or plaster walls.

Spray a product like DIF or Zinsser wallpaper remover directly onto scored wallpaper. These enzyme-based or surfactant formulas penetrate and dissolve adhesive faster than homemade solutions. Wait the recommended time (typically 15-20 minutes) and scrape.

Mix equal parts white vinegar and hot water in a spray bottle. Score the wallpaper first, then saturate each section generously and let it soak for 10-15 minutes. Scrape with a putty knife. Reapply as needed for stubborn areas.