Removing wallpaper can be a time-consuming and tedious task, but with the right tools and techniques, it can become a manageable project. One of the most effective and efficient ways to remove wallpaper is by using a wallpaper removal steamer. Steam softens the adhesive, making it easier to peel away the wallpaper without causing damage to the wall underneath.

This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of using a wallpaper removal steamer. Whether you're tackling a small room or a large space, following these steps will help you achieve a smooth, clean wall, ready for whatever comes next.

  1. Gather Necessary Tools and Supplies

Before you begin the wallpaper removal process, make sure you have all the necessary tools and supplies. Here's a list of what you'll need:

  • Wallpaper removal steamer: Choose a high-quality steamer that's suitable for wallpaper removal.
  • Putty knife or wallpaper scraper: For scraping the wallpaper off the wall.
  • Drop cloths or plastic sheeting: To protect your floors and furniture from water damage.
  • Bucket of warm water: To help clean any remaining adhesive once the wallpaper is removed.
  • Mild soap: For cleaning the wall after wallpaper removal.
  • Gloves: To protect your hands from steam burns.
  • Goggles: For eye protection.
  • Screwdriver: To remove electrical outlet covers or light switch plates.
  • Tarp or plastic sheeting: To cover furniture and prevent damage.
  • Tape: For securing the plastic sheeting to the walls or around doorways.
  1. Prepare the Room

Proper preparation is essential for making the wallpaper removal process smooth and efficient. Here's how to set up the room before you start using the steamer:

Clear the Area

  • Remove Furniture: Move any furniture away from the walls, or at least to the center of the room. This will give you plenty of space to work and protect the furniture from steam or water damage.
  • Cover the Floor : Lay down drop cloths, plastic sheeting, or old towels on the floor to catch any water or wallpaper debris. This will make cleanup much easier afterward.
  • Cover Furniture : Use plastic sheets or old blankets to protect your furniture from moisture and possible damage from steam.

Turn Off Electrical Fixtures

  • Switch Off Electricity: If your wallpaper is near electrical outlets, light switches, or fixtures, it's a good idea to switch off the power supply in the room. This prevents the possibility of electrical shock or short circuits.
  • Remove Outlet Covers : Use a screwdriver to remove the covers of electrical outlets or light switches. Cover the open outlets with plastic and tape to protect them from water and steam.
  1. Choose the Right Steamer

Not all steamers are created equal, and selecting the right one for your job can make a significant difference. Here are some important factors to consider:

  • Steamer Size : Choose a handheld steamer or a larger, more powerful unit depending on the size of the room and the thickness of the wallpaper. Larger steamers are more efficient for big jobs, while handheld models are great for smaller areas.
  • Steam Output : The steam pressure and output should be adequate for wallpaper removal. Look for a steamer with at least 50 psi of pressure.
  • Tank Capacity: The larger the tank, the longer you can work without needing to refill. A bigger tank also means less frequent breaks during the process.
  1. Prepare the Wallpaper and Wall

Before you start steaming, take a few preliminary steps to ensure the wallpaper comes off smoothly.

  • Test for Peel-ability: Start by checking if the wallpaper is easy to peel by pulling back a corner. If it doesn't peel off easily, the adhesive may be stubborn, and you'll need to apply more steam to soften it.
  • Cut Small Slits in the Wallpaper: For some wallpapers, it helps to make small cuts or slits in the paper itself. This allows the steam to penetrate through the paper and break down the adhesive more efficiently.
  1. Use the Steamer to Soften the Adhesive

Once the room is prepared, the steamer is ready, and the wall is ready to be treated, you can begin using the steam.

Step-by-Step Process:

  1. Fill the Steamer : Fill the steamer with water according to the manufacturer's instructions. Use distilled water if recommended to avoid mineral buildup in the steamer.

  2. Heat the Steamer : Allow the steamer to heat up completely. This process typically takes about 10 minutes, depending on the model. Wait for the steam to begin emitting consistently before proceeding.

  3. Start at the Top : Begin at the top of the wall where the wallpaper is generally more tightly adhered. Place the steam plate (or the designated steam nozzle) directly on the wall. Hold it there for around 30-60 seconds to let the steam penetrate the wallpaper.

  4. Check the Wall: After a minute or so of steaming, test the wallpaper by gently trying to peel a corner or edge. If it comes off easily, you're ready to proceed. If not, apply a little more steam for additional penetration.

  5. Scrape Off the Wallpaper

Once the adhesive is softened, it's time to scrape the wallpaper off the wall. You can use a putty knife, wallpaper scraper, or a specialized tool designed for wallpaper removal.

Scraping Tips:

  • Start at the Edge: Begin scraping at the edge of the wallpaper. Once you find a spot where the wallpaper has loosened, carefully work the scraper underneath the paper.
  • Work in Small Sections: Don't try to peel off large sections all at once. Work in small sections for the best results. This allows you to steam and scrape one area thoroughly before moving on to the next.
  • Be Gentle: Scraping too hard can damage the drywall underneath. Apply gentle pressure and let the steamer do most of the work.
  1. Repeat the Process

Continue steaming and scraping in small sections across the wall. Take breaks as needed to allow the steamer to heat back up or to move to another area. Depending on the type of wallpaper, the process may take several hours to complete. Patience is key!

If you encounter stubborn areas, reapply steam for a longer period to break down the adhesive more effectively.

  1. Clean the Wall and Remove Adhesive Residue

After the wallpaper has been removed, there may still be some residual adhesive left on the wall. To ensure a clean surface for painting or re-wallpapering, follow these steps:

Steps to Remove Residual Adhesive:

  1. Reapply Steam : For areas where the adhesive is still present, use the steamer to loosen it.

  2. Scrape Again : Gently scrape away the softened adhesive with your scraper.

  3. Wash the Wall : Use a mixture of warm water and mild soap to wash the wall. A sponge or cloth can help remove the last traces of adhesive.

  4. Vinegar Solution : If stubborn glue remains, mix one part vinegar and one part water. Apply it to the wall, let it sit for a few minutes, and then scrub it off.

  5. Clean Up and Prepare the Wall for New Finishes

Once the wall is free of wallpaper and adhesive, you'll want to clean up the area and prepare the wall for new finishes.

  • Wipe Down the Wall : Use a damp cloth to wipe down the entire wall. Ensure it's free of any moisture or soap residue.
  • Allow the Wall to Dry: Give the wall adequate time to dry before proceeding with painting or re-wallpapering.
  • Patch Holes : If the scraping caused any minor damage to the wall, now is the time to patch up small holes or cracks with spackle or joint compound.
  1. Safety Considerations

Using a wallpaper removal steamer can be dangerous if not handled properly. Keep the following safety precautions in mind:

  • Protect Your Hands : Always wear gloves when using the steamer to avoid burns.
  • Wear Goggles : Safety goggles will protect your eyes from steam or debris.
  • Handle Steam Carefully: Steam can burn, so never place your hands directly in front of the nozzle, and keep the steamer at a safe distance from your body.
  • Keep the Area Well-Ventilated: Steam can make the room humid, so it's important to ensure proper ventilation to avoid moisture buildup and potential damage to furniture or walls.

Conclusion

Using a wallpaper removal steamer is one of the most effective and efficient methods for removing wallpaper. By following this step-by-step guide, you can safely and easily tackle the project, whether you're removing a single layer of wallpaper or dealing with multiple layers and stubborn adhesives. Remember to be patient, work in small sections, and always follow safety guidelines. With the right preparation and tools, you'll have a clean and ready-to-paint wall in no time.