Removing wallpaper is only half the job. Here’s the simple, water-and-sponge method we recommend to gently wash away leftover paste and get your walls ready for a fresh start.
Why You Need to Remove Wallpaper Paste
After peeling away old wallpaper, many people discover a thin, sticky film left behind. This film is wallpaper paste, and if it isn’t fully removed, it can cause issues with both paint and new wallpaper.
Leftover wallpaper paste can:
- Prevent new wallpaper from sticking properly
- Cause bubbling or lifting over time
- Lead to uneven paint coverage
- Attract dust and dirt
- Leave the surface feeling gritty or tacky
A fully clean wall is essential for a smooth, long-lasting finish.
How Do You Get Wallpaper Paste Off Walls After Removal?
Good news: you don’t need chemicals or special tools. The best method is simple, gentle, and effective—just warm water and a sponge.
Step 1: Apply Warm Water with a Sponge
Warm water reactivates the dried wallpaper paste, making it easy to wipe away.
- Fill a bucket with warm (not hot) water.
- Dip a soft sponge into the water and wring until damp.
- Apply the warm water to the wall in small sections.
Let the water sit on the paste for 1–2 minutes to loosen it.
Step 2: Wipe the Paste Away
Once softened, wipe the paste using:
- A sponge
- A microfiber cloth
- A soft rag
Rinse the cloth often so you’re removing paste instead of moving it around.
Step 3: Repeat 2–3 Times
Wallpaper paste—especially older adhesive—can require multiple passes.
We recommend:
- Rewetting the area
- Letting the warm water sit briefly
- Wiping again
Step 4: Check for Missed Spots
Feel the wall with your fingertips:
- Sticky areas = paste still present
- Chalky smooth = clean
- Shiny patches = need another wipe
Step 5: Let the Wall Fully Dry
Before painting or wallpapering:
- Let the wall dry for 12 hours before painting
- Allow 24 hours before applying new wallpaper
This prevents moisture from getting trapped under paint or new adhesive.
Optional: Add a Mild Cleaning Boost
For particularly stubborn paste, you can add a small drop of mild dish soap to your warm water. Avoid harsh chemicals—they can damage the wall surface or leave behind residue that interferes with new wallpaper adhesion.
Wallpaper Paste Removal: Quick FAQs
Can I use vinegar to remove wallpaper paste?
Yes, but warm water is gentler and usually just as effective. If you do use vinegar, dilute it heavily and spot test first.
Should I sand the walls after removing paste?
Only if the wall is uneven. Never sand wet paste. Clean first, let it dry, then lightly sand only if needed.
Can I paint over wallpaper paste residue?
No. Paint applied over paste can peel or bubble. Cleaning the wall thoroughly is the key to a smooth, long-lasting finish.
Once your walls are clean and dry, you’re ready to choose a new wallpaper you love.
