How to Use Fabric Softener to Remove Wallpaper
Decorative wallpaper can really add style and enhance a room, if done right. Redecorating is fun, but it can be tricky to re-wallpaper a room or remove the paper completely. When you start redecorating, you need to make sure you remove the wallpaper properly---otherwise, you'll be stuck with adhesive on the walls and peeling paper. An effective way to remove wallpaper, especially the adhesive layer, is to use fabric softener as you remove it. Before applying fabric softener, you should begin to detach the wallpaper as much as possible. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Box cutter (utility knife)
- Water
- Sponge
- Metal putty knife
- Fabric softener
- Bucket
- All-purpose cleaner
Instructions
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1
Begin to peel the wallpaper, starting at the bottom. Lift the wallpaper and pull it up toward the ceiling. If the adhesive does not come off easily, you'll need to score the walls.
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2
Make gentle criss-cross marks on the top layer of the wallpaper using a sharp box cutter. You can do one section at a time.
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3
Dip a sponge in hot water. Wipe the walls with the damp sponge in order to soften up the adhesive behind the wallpaper. The wallpaper will begin to detach from the walls.
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4
Continue using the box cutter and a sponge dipped in hot water until the wallpaper starts peeling off.
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5
Remove the wallpaper that has peeled away using a putty knife. Place the edge of the knife underneath areas that have peeled away. Remove as much of the wallpaper as you can.
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6
Grab a bucket and pour one part fabric softener and one part water. Swirl the solution until well blended.
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7
Dampen a sponge with the solution. Wipe the walls with the sponge, making sure to distribute the solution evenly.
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8
Wait for 15 minutes while the solution soaks in.
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9
Scrape off the rest of the wallpaper, including the adhesive layer, with the putty knife.
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10
Clean the walls with an all-purpose cleaner.
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11
Let the walls dry.
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1
Tips & Warnings
If the adhesive comes off easily in strips in step 1, the wallpaper is strippable, and you'll be able to continue stripping it, leaving just the paper backing on the wall.
