Prepare Work Area and Remove Vinyl Top Layer

What happens here

Before beginning the removal process, carefully prepare the work area to protect floors and furniture from water and wallpaper debris. Lay down drop cloths to cover the entire floor surface in the work area. Tuck absorbent towels or rags along the baseboards and any furniture that cannot be moved to absorb excess water and prevent it from soaking into carpets or wooden floors. Then, identify if your wallpaper has a vinyl top layer. If it does, grab a corner or edge of the wallpaper and attempt to peel off this top vinyl layer. This layer often comes off relatively easily, sometimes in one large piece, revealing the paper backing underneath. Removing this top layer first allows the steam to penetrate the paper backing and adhesive more effectively.

Goal: Protect the surrounding area and remove the outermost layer of wallpaper.