Removing old wallpaper can instantly refresh a room and prepare your walls for paint or new décor. However, stripping wallpaper from drywall must be done carefully to avoid damaging the surface underneath. Drywall is softer than plaster, so using the right tools and technique is essential. In this guide, you’ll learn the safest and most effective way to remove wallpaper while keeping your drywall smooth and intact.

Why Proper Wallpaper Removal Matters

Many homeowners try to pull wallpaper off quickly, but this often tears the drywall paper layer. When that happens, the wall can become rough and difficult to repair. Properly stripping wallpaper helps you:

• Protect the drywall surface

  

• Save time on repairs later

• Create a smooth base for painting or new wallpaper

• Improve the overall look of your room

Taking a careful approach makes the process much easier in the long run.

Tools and Materials You Will Need

Before starting the process of stripping wallpaper from drywall, gather the following tools:

• Drop cloths or plastic sheets

• Putty knife or wallpaper scraper

• Spray bottle or sponge

• Warm water

• Wallpaper removal solution or vinegar

• Scoring tool (optional)

• Bucket and sponge

• Sandpaper for finishing

Having the right tools ready will make the job more efficient and reduce the risk of wall damage.

Step-by-Step Process for Stripping Wallpaper from Drywall

1. Prepare the Room

Start by protecting your floors and furniture. Lay down drop cloths and move any furniture away from the walls. Turn off electricity to outlets in the area since water will be used during the removal process.

2. Test a Small Area

Before soaking the entire wall, test a small section of wallpaper. Try gently peeling it from a corner. Sometimes wallpaper comes off easily in large strips. If it doesn’t, you will need to use water or a removal solution.

3. Score the Wallpaper (If Needed)

If the wallpaper has a vinyl coating, lightly score the surface using a scoring tool. This creates small holes that allow water or remover solution to soak through and loosen the adhesive.

Be careful not to press too hard because you don’t want to damage the drywall beneath.

4. Apply Water or Wallpaper Remover

Fill a spray bottle with warm water or a mixture of warm water and vinegar. Spray the wallpaper generously and allow it to soak for 10–15 minutes. This softens the adhesive holding the wallpaper to the drywall.

Commercial wallpaper removers can also be used if the adhesive is particularly stubborn.

5. Start Scraping the Wallpaper

Use a putty knife or wallpaper scraper to gently lift the wallpaper from the wall. Hold the scraper at a low angle and work slowly to avoid gouging the drywall surface.

Continue spraying and scraping section by section until all wallpaper is removed.

6. Remove Remaining Adhesive

After stripping wallpaper from drywall, you may still notice sticky adhesive residue. Use warm water and a sponge to wash the wall. In tougher areas, a mild cleaning solution can help dissolve the glue.

Rinse the wall thoroughly and allow it to dry completely.

7. Repair and Smooth the Wall

Once the wall is dry, inspect the drywall for small imperfections. Lightly sand rough areas and apply joint compound if needed to repair minor damage. After sanding, your wall will be ready for primer and paint.

Tips for Easier Wallpaper Removal

Here are a few expert tips that make stripping wallpaper from drywall much easier:

• Work in small sections instead of soaking the entire wall at once

• Keep the wallpaper wet while scraping

• Use gentle pressure to protect the drywall surface

• Be patient—rushing can damage the wall

Final Thoughts

Stripping wallpaper from drywall may seem like a difficult task, but with the right approach it becomes manageable. Proper preparation, careful soaking, and gentle scraping are the keys to protecting your walls. Once the wallpaper and adhesive are fully removed, your drywall will be ready for a fresh coat of paint or new wallpaper, giving your room a completely updated look.

With patience and the correct tools, you can successfully remove wallpaper and achieve smooth, professional-looking walls.