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How to Remove RV Wallpaper? – Easy Ways for Everyone

Writen by Dane Heldt

Fact checked by Robert Clark

how to remove rv wallpaper

If you are remodeling or repairing your RV, camper, or travel trailer, you know how difficult it is to remove RV wallpaper borders.

The fact of the matter is that when RV owners are confronted with this issue, most of them are often left scratching their heads. Depending on the type of wallpaper you have, its condition, its age, the way you handle it may vary.

Our article will show exactly how to remove RV wallpaper. Your RV makeover will be so much fun as simply removing stubborn wallpaper borders will create a significant difference.

We have gathered the two best ways to deal with this issue and put them in one place:

  • Using Water Mixture
  • Using Steamer Or Heat Gun

Keep reading for more details!

2 Easy Methods to Remove RV Wallpaper

rv-wallpaper-borders

Following are two popular ways for RV wallpaper removal. They are all equally effective, and the choice is up to you.

Method 1: Utilizing Water Mixture

Step 1: Mix 2 ⁄ 3 Teaspoons Dish Soap and Water

Dish soap has the ability to break the adhesive of RV wallpapers, allowing you to remove them easily. Pour hot water into a spray bottle. Then, add dish soap to it and shake your spray bottle gently.

Note

  • A 0.47 L (16 fl oz) spray bottle is ideal. However, it is alright to use a slightly smaller or slightly larger one.
  • If you do not have dish soap, use fabric softener as an All you need to do is add 79 mL (1⁄3 c) fabric softener.

Step 2: Combine Water With Vinegar to Create an Acidic Mixture

This refers to mixing water and vinegar in a 50:50 ratio. You may be wondering why we should use vinegar for this step.

As we all know, white vinegar contains acids, which have the same function as dish soap. So, you will do the same thing as above: Fill your spray bottle halfway with hot water, pour in white vinegar, and gently shake your spray bottle.

Note

  • Vinegar usually has a strong odor. Therefore, you will want your RV to be well ventilated when using this mixture.
  • If you don’t have vinegar, it’s okay to use a 1:1 mixture of hot water and window cleaner.

Step 3: Spray the Mixture All Over the Your RV Wallpaper

Now, you need to make sure the entire wallpaper surface is covered with the mixture. It will seep into the wallpaper and then into the glue.

Note

If you are concerned about drips, it is best to spread some towels down on the floor before you spray.

Step 4: Wait for the Mixture to Seep Into the RV Wallpaper

It is best to let your mixture soak into the adhesive layer of the wallpaper for at least 15 minutes. However, avoid letting it dry out. If any of it begins to dry out, it is essential to add more liquid.

Step 5: Use a Damp Sponge to Scrub Your RV Wallpaper

In this step, you need to find a sponge, moisten it, and use it to scrub the wallpaper. It may be difficult at first, but it will get easier over time.

Note

  • Without a sponge? It is possible to utilize a plastic putty knife.
  • Always remember that scrubbing the wallpaper gets more challenging as the liquid dries. Hence, it is essential to wet any area with the mixture if you notice it starting to dry out.

Step 6: Wipe the RV Wallpaper With Your Damp Rag

Once the wallpaper scrubbing is complete, you’ll need to use a damp cloth to remove any remaining adhesive. Last but not least, you must let your wall dry for a few hours to avoid mold.

Method 2: Using Steamer Or Heat Gun

Step 1: Place the Heat Gun or Steamer Close to Your RV Wallpaper

If you choose a steamer, place the nozzle directly on top of your RV wallpaper. If using a heat gun is your option, hold it about 2.5 cm (1 in) away from the RV wall and turn it on.

Note

  • You can buy a steamer for about $50. If you don’t want to buy a steamer, consider renting one from a local hardware store.
  • If you use a heat gun, be careful with it. As its name suggests, it’s hot!

Step 2: Move Your Device Slowly Along One Strip of Your Wallpaper

Observe your wallpaper to determine which direction it is applied (up and down or left to right). Most wallpaper is applied from left to right, but there will be exceptions. After that, start by placing your device along one strip of your wallpaper and following its grain to melt the glue slowly.

Step 3: Scrape Your RV Wallpaper With a Putty Knife

As you glide your device over the wallpaper, use a putty knife to slide below the edge of the wallpaper to remove it.

Note

  • If you’re having trouble doing this, it’s wise to get help from friends.
  • Once you have peeled off a corner, you can grab your wallpaper in one hand and peel it up.

Step 4: Continue Until All Wallpapers Are Removed

Using these tools is one of the easiest ways to remove camper wallpaper borders. It may take you some time, but it’s worth a try. You should be able to remove all adhesives cleanly and smoothly.

Other Ways to Remove Wallpaper Border

camper-wallpaper-border

1. Chemical Wallpaper Remover

If the wallpaper resists, you might consider a wallpaper removal product.

  • To deal with stubborn wallpaper borders, you should score them every 6 to 12 inches with a wallpaper scoring tool before applying your remover.
  • Using a wallpaper scoring tool, you will create tiny holes in the paper. Remember that a little pressure is enough. If you press too hard, your wall may be damaged.
  • Allow your solution to penetrate the backing, and the RV wallpaper will be easier to remove.
  • Then, you need to lift your wallpaper with the putty knife to remove as much of the paper as possible.
  • You can also apply additional remover if needed and wait another five minutes for the remover to penetrate the glue.

2. Orbital Sander

  • If you have to deal with super-stuck-on wallpaper border pieces, you can also use an orbital sander for sanding away the top layer.
  • Once you have removed the top layer, you have to spray down the remaining backing with warm water. Then, wait a few minutes for the glue to loosen to remove the border remnants with a putty knife.

Some Additional Options to Removing Wallpaper Border Residue

1. Lemon or Orange Essential Oil

Some RV owners use orange, lemon, or any other citrus essential oil to remove residue. They smell good. If you do, be sure to let us know how it goes!

2. Citrus Magic

We also heard that Citrus Magic Air Freshener could help remove the sticky residue. So, give it a try and let us know about its effectiveness.

3. WD40

Using WD40 is another option that allows you to remove the sticky residue.

4. Alcohol

After removing the RV wallpaper, you can wipe the area down with alcohol.

5. TSP

It is possible to wipe the walls down with TSP. It is beneficial for painting the wall afterward.

Bonus Tips

  • Regardless of the solution you use for RV wallpaper removal, let it soak into the wallpaper evenly. This is the key.
  • Once the solution has soaked, you can use a putty knife, scraper, or something similar to remove the RV wallpaper.
  • If you do not have a spray bottle, it is wise to mix the solution in a bucket or bowl. After that, you just need to soak a clean towel in the solution and apply the mixture to your RV wallpaper.
  • Sometimes there is an outer layer or skin, and you need to remove them before applying the solutions.

Conclusion

Now, you should know how to remove RV wallpaper. Removing wallpaper can be a pain for RV owners when remodeling or renovating their vehicles. Fortunately, there are several effective solutions to removing unsightly RV wallpaper. With a bit of time and effort, you will be well on your way with your renovation project.

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