What is the best way to take down wallpaper in a bathroom?

Answer 1

Even without a steamer you can remove. Use a scorer, spray a mist (with a spray bottle), let stand for a few moments than use a putty knife to remove.

Answer 2

Use a steam machine. They are available at your standard home improvement stores (Home Depot, Menards, Lowes, etc.).

The steam comes out a tube into a rectangular-shaped piece. Hold that at the top of the wallpaper for about 5 seconds (not too long or it will get the drywall wet, too). Take the attachment down, and peel a corner away. As the paper peels, you'll want to go in a slow motion with the attachment. Keep it under the peeling paper, and peel-and-steam all in one piece.

I've done 20-year-old wallpaper this way, and it was a snap. Once I knew to do the top, then pull the attachment just below the peeling paper in my hand, it went super easy.

Of course, you'll have some stray spots, but just peel those off individually.

PS - It helps to score the paper (round, hand-held tool with teeth) prior to steaming the wallpaper.

Answer 3

Often bathrooms have a vinyl wallpaper applied. (is it plastic or shiny looking?) this will probably come off in two layers. you will probably be able to pick up a corner of the vinyl top layer and tear it off in big sheets, then have to work on the back paper layer with the steam/ chemical method described below.

you need four things; a steamer, chemical to release the glue, a scraper and a scoring tool. Zinsser makes the chemical, called Dif, or you can use hot water and vinegar. Zinsser also makes the scoring tool, use it gently to just go through the paper, (and not dent up your walls) to allow the chemical to penetrate.

Score first, spray chemical, allow the chemicals time to soak in, steam, scrape.

http://www.zinsser.com/subcat.asp?CategoryID=2

after you finish the removal, wash down the walls as prep for whatever you are doing next. I use TSP.
http://www.savogran.com/Retail_Products/Cleaning_Products/cleaning_products.html

which is a very strong and somewhat dangerous cleaner.
http://www.naturalhandyman.com/iip/infxtra/inftsp.shtm

Answer 4

Rent a steamer - score the paper with a wallpaper scorer - they are very cheap and spray it with wallpaper remover like Dif - steam it for a few minutes and it should peel right off.

Answer 5

it's been said - a steamer is the only and easiest way to go!

(regardless of the room) I steamed off my kitchen wallpaper and my room is 12 x 20 in no time. It was washing the walls afterward that took all the time.

Good luck~