DIF Chemical Wallpaper Remover (Concentrate or Gel)

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

How It Works

DIF contains enzyme-based surfactants specifically formulated to break down the starch and cellulose compounds in wallpaper paste. It penetrates faster and deeper than home remedies, working on a wider range of adhesive types including older, harder-to-dissolve formulations. DIF is available as a liquid concentrate (mix with water) or a ready-to-use gel spray.

Instructions

1. Protect the room with drop cloths and turn off power to outlets
2. Score the wallpaper thoroughly with a Paper Tiger
3. For DIF Concentrate: Mix 10 oz (1-1/4 cups) of concentrate per gallon of warm water
4. For DIF Gel: Use directly from the spray bottle — no mixing required
5. Apply generously to a section of scored wallpaper. The gel version clings to vertical surfaces better and reduces dripping
6. Wait 15-30 minutes, keeping the surface wet. Do not let the solution dry
7. Scrape the wallpaper away with a putty knife or scraper
8. For stubborn adhesive residue, apply a thin layer of DIF Gel directly to the residue, wait 5-10 minutes, and wipe clean with a sponge
9. Rinse walls with clean water and allow to dry before priming

Tips

• DIF Concentrate is more economical for large rooms — one 22 oz bottle treats approximately 400 square feet
• DIF Gel Spray is cleaner and easier for smaller jobs, ceilings, or areas where dripping is a concern
• The product is non-staining, non-flammable, and has a mild scent
• For multiple layers of wallpaper, you may need to remove one layer, re-score, and re-apply DIF to the next layer
• DIF works on all common wallpaper types including vinyl, fabric-backed, and pre-pasted

Common Mistakes

• Not scoring the wallpaper before applying — DIF cannot penetrate unscored vinyl or coated surfaces
• Letting the solution dry on the wall, which requires re-wetting and doubles the work
• Trying to scrape too soon before the enzymes have had time to fully break down the adhesive
• Using too little product — the wall should be visibly wet, not just damp