Removing wallpaper paste

Summary: Learn how to remove wallpaper paste or glue from a wall.

Once you have removed wallpaper from your wall, the adhesive can often be left behind which will need to be removed. The process is time consuming and messy, but it is simple and can be done quite easily.

Remove wallpaper paste or glue

  • You may want to turn off the electrical supply to the sockets in the room. If you are unsure of how this is done, then always ask someone with experience or a professional.
  • Now lay enough towels or sheets along the floor at the base of the walls to protect the floor from the water and dirt that will fall.
  • The solution you will be using to remove the wallpaper adhesive is simply hot water mixed with liquid dishwashing detergent. The water needs to be hot so it can effectively remove the adhesive, however you do not want to burn your skin. Either wear washing up gloves or keep topping up the water in the bucket so it stays at a temperature your skin can comfortably bear. If the water goes cold, it will be quite ineffective.
  • Use 1-2 tablespoons of washing-up liquid and add it to the bucket of hot water. With a sponge or brush, scrub the adhesive from the walls.
  • When you have finished removing the wallpaper adhesive, wash the walls down using a fresh bucket of cool water and a cloth. Keep re-filling the bucket with fresh water if it gets too soapy, as you will want to make sure all the soap is completely cleaned from the walls.
  • Allow the walls of your room to dry completely before turning the electricity back on. To speed up the drying process, open all windows in the vicinity or use a fan connected to an alternative power source.

See our guide to using a wallpaper steamer

How to remove wallpaper paste video

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