How to Remove Wallpaper in Dubai Homes | Step-by-Step Guide

Removing old wallpaper can seem like a challenging task, but with the right techniques, it's often much easier than expected. Whether you're renovating a villa, updating an apartment, or preparing walls for a fresh finish, knowing how to remove wallpaper correctly helps prevent damage and ensures better results.

Many homeowners planning a residential wallpaper installation dubai project first need to remove existing wallpaper and adhesive. While some wallpaper peels away easily, others may require soaking, scraping, or steaming to loosen stubborn glue.

In this guide, you'll learn how to remove wallpaper safely and efficiently while keeping your walls in excellent condition.

3 Ways to Remove Stubborn Wallpaper

Not all wallpaper comes off the same way. The best removal method depends on the wallpaper type, the strength of the adhesive, and how long it has been installed. In many Dubai homes and apartments, wallpaper is used extensively for decorative feature walls, making proper removal especially important during renovations.

Here are the three most effective methods for removing stubborn wallpaper.

Method 1: Remove Wallpaper With Warm Water

Using warm water is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to remove wallpaper. This method works particularly well on traditional wallpaper and older adhesives commonly found in older residential properties across Dubai.

What You'll Need:

• Spray bottle or sponge
• Warm water
• Putty knife or scraper
• Drop cloths
• Clean towels

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Protect your floors and furniture with drop cloths.

2. Peel off as much wallpaper as possible by hand.

3. Spray warm water generously onto the wallpaper.

4. Let the water soak in for 10 to 15 minutes.

5. Use a putty knife to gently scrape the wallpaper away.

Working slowly is important. Rushing the process or scraping too aggressively can damage the drywall or plaster underneath. Professional decorators in Dubai recommend allowing sufficient soaking time so the adhesive softens properly before scraping.

Method 2: Use a Wallpaper Removal Solution

If warm water alone doesn't work, a wallpaper removal solution can help break down stubborn adhesive more effectively.

Steps for Using Wallpaper Remover

1. Score the wallpaper lightly if it has a vinyl coating.

2. Apply the removal solution using a sponge, roller, or spray bottle.

3. Let the solution soak into the wallpaper for several minutes.

4. Scrape the softened wallpaper carefully using a drywall knife or scraper.

Avoid pressing too hard with scoring tools. Deep scoring can damage the wall surface and lead to costly repairs later.

Pro Tip

Many experienced painters and renovation specialists in Dubai recommend working in small sections instead of soaking the entire room at once. This prevents walls from drying too quickly before the wallpaper can be removed.

Method 3: Remove Wallpaper With a Steamer

For extremely stubborn wallpaper, steamers are often the fastest and most effective solution.

Wallpaper steamers use hot steam to loosen the adhesive behind the wallpaper, making removal significantly easier. This method is especially useful in Dubai villas and older properties where multiple wallpaper layers may have been installed over time.

How to Use a Wallpaper Steamer

1. Fill the steamer with water and allow it to heat up.

2. Hold the steam plate against the wallpaper for several seconds.

3. Move the steamer slowly across the wall.

4. Scrape the wallpaper off while it remains damp and warm.

Safety Tips

• Wear gloves to avoid burns
• Keep steam away from outlets and switches
• Avoid over-soaking drywall
• Work in a well-ventilated room

Although steamers can save considerable time, they still require patience and careful scraping for the best results.

Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Wallpaper

No matter which method you choose, following the correct preparation steps will make the entire process easier.

Step 1: Prepare the Room

Before starting, remove:

• Wall décor
• Outlet covers
• Furniture near the walls

Cover floors with drop cloths to protect them from water, adhesive residue, and wallpaper debris. If you're working in a Dubai apartment or villa, turning off electricity near outlets and switches is also recommended when using water or steam.

Step 2: Identify the Wallpaper Type

Understanding your wallpaper type helps determine the most effective removal method.

Common Wallpaper Types

• Peel-and-stick wallpaper
• Vinyl wallpaper
• Strippable wallpaper
• Traditional pasted wallpaper

Many modern homes in Dubai use peel-and-stick wallpaper for quick interior upgrades, while vinyl wallpaper often requires scoring before moisture can penetrate the surface.

Step 3: Peel Off the Top Layer

Before soaking the walls, try removing the wallpaper by hand.

Start at a corner or seam and slowly peel downward. In some situations, the decorative top layer will come off first, leaving the paper backing attached to the wall.

Removing this layer first allows water or wallpaper remover to penetrate the adhesive more effectively.

Step 4: Soak the Wallpaper

Once the outer layer is removed, soak the remaining wallpaper.

You can use:

• Warm water
• Wallpaper remover solution
• Vinegar and hot water mixture

Allow enough time for the liquid to penetrate the adhesive. Many wallpaper removal problems occur because people begin scraping before the adhesive has softened completely.

Step 5: Scrape Carefully

Use a putty knife or drywall knife to gently scrape away softened wallpaper.

Important Tips

• Hold the scraper at a low angle
• Avoid gouging the wall surface
• Work slowly in small sections
• Reapply water if areas begin to dry out

Step 6: Clean the Walls

After removing all wallpaper, adhesive residue will usually remain on the walls.

Wash the walls thoroughly using:

• Warm water
• Mild dish soap
• Sponge or microfiber cloth

Cleaning leftover adhesive is essential before painting or installing new wallpaper. Any remaining residue can affect paint adhesion and create uneven wall finishes.

Step 7: Repair and Sand the Walls

Once the walls are completely dry:

• Fill holes or damaged areas with filler
• Sand rough spots until smooth
• Prime the walls before painting

Proper wall preparation creates a much smoother final finish whether you're repainting or installing new wallpaper in your Dubai property.

Avoid These Common Mistakes

• Scraping too aggressively
• Skipping wall preparation
• Not allowing enough soaking time
• Using excessive steam
• Forgetting to protect floors and outlets
• Damaging walls with scoring tools

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the easiest way to remove wallpaper?

Warm water and wallpaper remover solution are usually the easiest methods for most wallpaper types. For particularly stubborn wallpaper, steamers often deliver the best results.

Can I paint over wallpaper instead of removing it?

Although it is possible, most professional painters in Dubai recommend removing wallpaper first to achieve smoother and longer-lasting paint results.

How long does wallpaper removal take?

A small room may take several hours, while larger rooms or stubborn wallpaper installations may require an entire weekend.

Do I need a wallpaper steamer?

Not necessarily. Many wallpaper types can be removed successfully using warm water and a quality wallpaper removal solution.

Final Thoughts

Learning how to remove wallpaper may seem overwhelming at first, but with proper preparation and the right technique, the process becomes much more manageable.

Whether you choose warm water, a wallpaper removal solution, or a wallpaper steamer, the most important thing is to work patiently and avoid damaging the wall underneath.

Once the wallpaper has been removed and the walls have been properly cleaned and repaired, you'll have the perfect surface for fresh paint or stylish new wallpaper that complements your Dubai home.