How to remove your wallpaper
Wallpaper removal can vary greatly depending on the condition of the wall, the type of paint, the age of the surface, the material installed, the installation method, and environmental factors such as humidity and temperature. The steps provided in this guide are intended only as a general reference for standard situations.
Because every home and wall surface is different, we cannot guarantee that wallpaper will remove perfectly in every scenario. Kaleon Wallpaper is not responsible for any damage that may occur during removal, including paint lifting, surface peeling, or imperfections becoming visible once the wallpaper is taken down.
If you are unsure about your wall condition, if the wallpaper has been installed for a long time, or if you notice resistance during the removal process, we strongly recommend seeking help from a qualified wallpaper installer or removal specialist to ensure the best possible outcome.
How to Remove Your Wallpaper
Removing wallpaper doesn’t need to be difficult. Whether you installed peel and stick wallpaper or paste-the-wall non-woven wallpaper, both materials can be removed cleanly with the right technique.
Follow the steps below to keep your walls protected and prepare them for a new design.
1. How to Remove Peel & Stick Removable Wallpaper
(Easy, damage-free removal – ideal for renters and DIY projects)
Peel and stick wallpaper is designed for clean, straightforward removal. Our premium removable film lifts away from the wall without chemicals, steamers, or specialised tools.
Step-by-Step: How to Remove Peel & Stick Wallpaper
1. Start from the top corner
Gently lift one top corner of the first panel using your fingertips. If the edge is tight, slide a plastic scraper under the corner to lift it without scratching the wall.
2. Peel slowly at a 180° angle
Pull the panel down and back on itself,
not straight out from the wall. A low, slow pull helps minimise tension and prevents paint lifting on walls that were not primed correctly.
3. Continue peeling in one steady movement
Move slowly and keep the angle low. The adhesive releases gradually, leaving the surface clean.
4. If you feel resistance, pause and warm the panel (optional)
In cooler rooms or older walls, use a hairdryer on low heat to warm the film slightly. This softens the adhesive and makes removal smoother.
5. Remove all remaining panels one by one
Repeat the process for each 60cm panel, working left to right.
6. Clean the surface only if needed
Peel & stick wallpaper rarely leaves residue. If the wall feels slightly tacky (very rare), a gentle wipe with warm soapy water removes it easily.
Tips for Best Results
- Walls painted with washable or Teflon paints may show more resistance.
- If the wall wasn’t primed before painting, take extra care and peel slowly.
- Save the removed panels if you want to re-apply them somewhere else-our film is reusable on smooth surfaces.
2. How to Remove Paste-the-Wall Non-Woven Wallpaper
(Designed for clean removal thanks to the non-woven backing)
Non-woven wallpaper is engineered to be strippable, meaning it can come off the wall in large sheets without leaving paper residue behind. With the correct method, you won’t need steamers or harsh chemicals.
Step-by-Step: How to Remove Paste-the-Wall Wallpaper
1. Loosen the top corner
Use a plastic scraper or your fingernail to lift the top corner of the first panel.
2. Pull the wallpaper downwards in one steady sheet
Non-woven wallpaper is strong and tear-resistant. Pull the sheet slowly, firmly, and at a slight angle. Most of the panel should come off in one piece.
3. If a section remains stuck, don’t force it
Simply re-lift the edge and continue pulling. Non-woven fibres are designed to release cleanly.
4.Remove stubborn areas with warm water (if needed)
Paste-the-wall glue is water-based. If small patches remain:
- Dip a sponge in warm water or use a bottle to spray the wallpaper with warm water
- Wet the remaining backing paper
- Wait 2–3 minutes
- Peel it off easily
No chemicals required.
5. Clean the wall
After all panels are removed, wipe down the wall with warm water to remove any adhesive dust.
Important Notes
Wallpaper removal results depend on multiple factors, including wall preparation, paint type, paint age, wallpaper material, installation quality, and environmental conditions. The instructions above serve as a general guide only.
Kaleon Wallpaper cannot guarantee the outcome of wallpaper removal and is not liable for damage such as paint peeling or surface lifting.
If your walls were not properly primed and painted, or if the wallpaper has been installed for an extended period, removal may require additional care.
If you have concerns or notice resistance, please contact a professional wallpaper installer or removal expert to ensure safe and proper removal.