How to Remove Wallpaper with a Vinegar Solution

Wallpaper attaches to walls with a thin layer of adhesive. To most easily and successfully remove wallpaper, use a product that will soften the adhesive. White vinegar softens many kinds of wallpaper adhesive, allowing for easier removal of the paper and the adhesive residue. According to Wallpaper Installer, the vinegar and water solution works on wallpaper that was applied with starch-based or wheat-based adhesives.

Old sheets, tarps or dropcloths
Knife
White vinegar
Bucket
Thick, fluffy paint roller
Putty knife
Sponge

Instructions

- 1
  Place old sheets, tarps or dropcloths on the floor. These will protect the floor and catch pieces of wallpaper for easier disposal.
- 2
  Score the wallpaper in random spots with a knife or other sharp instrument. Scoring the paper will help the vinegar solution penetrate to the adhesive--this is especially important if the wallpaper is coated with waterproof material.
- 3
  Fill a bucket with hot water. Add 1 cup of vinegar.
- 4
  Dip a clean, fluffy paint roller in the solution. Roll this over the wallpaper, wetting it well. Let the solution soak in for 15 to 20 minutes.
- 5
  Loosen an edge of the wallpaper with a putty knife and start to pull. If it is difficult, add more vinegar and water solution to the paper and let soak for a few minutes more.
- 6
  Roll over the remaining adhesive, using a large sponge, dampened in the vinegar solution, or the paint roller. Scrape it off with a putty knife.

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