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If you’re installing new wallpaper and have leftover glue, you can remove unused wallpaper paste from the bucket or pan it’s in by letting it dry. If it’s an oil-based paste, seal it in a plastic bag and throw it in the garbage. Otherwise, toss the leftover wallpaper paste in the trash. Although it’s water-soluble, don’t rinse unused wallpaper paste down the sink because it could dry in the pipes and cause a blockage.

Wallpaper steamers can be very helpful for removing large sections of wallpaper more easily, but they’re not always a good idea for DIYers. The drywall behind your wallpaper is meant to stay dry, and excessive moisture from improper technique with a wallpaper steamer can leave you with severe wall damage. Drywall also retains moisture, which could result in mold growth over time. It’s best to hire a professional to remove your wallpaper with a steamer to avoid wall damage and related moisture issues.

To remove adhesive-backed wallpaper, you’ll need to soften the adhesive before you try peeling the wallpaper off the walls. You may wonder whether peel-and-stick wallpaper damages walls. It can depend on the removal method. Make sure to be patient and consider using a steamer, hair dryer, or adhesive remover to carefully take down adhesive-backed wallpaper.

While it is possible to paint over wallpaper, it is generally better to remove it first to guarantee a smooth, professional finish. Painting over wallpaper can save time, but it may lead to issues if not done correctly.

You can paint over existing wallpaper if it is in excellent condition: smooth, non-textured, clean, and firmly adhered to the wall. Ensure there are no bumps, tears, or peeling areas, and that all corners and seams are securely glued down. You might also consider painting over wallpaper if removing it would damage the underlying wall. Additionally, some wallpapers are specifically designed to be paintable, which can add texture to a room.

However, there are risks. If the wallpaper is textured, damaged, or peeling, these imperfections will show through the new paint. The moisture from the paint can also loosen the wallpaper's adhesive, causing it to bubble and potentially damage the wall. To mitigate these issues, clean the surface thoroughly and use an oil-based primer to help the paint adhere and prevent the old adhesive from bleeding through.