How to Remove Toluene Contact Paper

Toluene contact paper is typically used to line the shelves of cabinets. However, some people like to use toluene contact paper as an alternative to wallpaper. This may be a good idea in the short term, as toluene contact paper is durable and water-resistant. But using this contact paper as a wall covering can create problems down the road when you want to remove it, as toluene contact paper can't be easily removed. If removed improperly, toluene contact paper can damage the wall to which it is attached.

Things You'll Need

• Rubber gloves
• Hairdryer
• Orange or lemon adhesive remover
• Small container
• Sponge

Instructions

1. Plug a hairdryer into a power outlet and set it on medium heat. The heat will help to soften the adhesive, making it easier to remove the toluene contact paper.

2. Put on rubber gloves. Turn on the hairdryer and direct it at one corner of the contact paper. As the contact paper softens, grasp the corner of the contact paper and carefully beginning pulling it away from the wall.

3. Move the hairdryer in a steady back-and-forth motion while slowly pulling the toluene contact paper away from the wall.

4. Remove all of the contact paper from the wall as you continue applying heat from the hairdryer to the surface.

5. Pour orange or lemon adhesive remover into a small container. Saturate a sponge with the solution. Scrub the walls with the solution to remove any residual adhesive from the toluene contact paper.

Tips & Warnings

• Follow all directions printed on the label of the orange or lemon adhesive remover.

References

• The Natural Handyman: Removing Contact Paper from Walls
• Contact Paper: Contact Paper Removal