How to remove masking tape from wallpaper: tips from manufacturers

So you used a strong masking tape on wallpapers and now it doesn’t come off. Well done, bro! Read our tips to take it off without damages and get a bonus to avoid all this mess (we’re masking tape manufacturers, we know our business).

Stop panicking and start reading. Here’s how you can fix it:

Use the correct tape

Heating and scrubbing can be avoided, if you choose the correct tape for the surface you are going to paint. Next time, remember to use a sensitive surface masking tape! A gentle adhesive product will prevent unwanted sticky residue and make you save time. Good news: Q1® has the best product you can find at a good quality-price ratio.

NEW! Q1® Sensitive Surface Masking Tape

This brand new delicate masking tape can be used even on wallpaper or freshly painted surfaces, when you need a lower adhesion level to help prevent surface damage. This doesn’t mean it won’t be sticky enough and fall while you are painting, in fact the less tacky tapes actually stick better, especially if they are good quality masking tapes!

Q1® Sensitive Surface Masking Tape assures easy removability on smooth and slightly textured surfaces. Thanks to its innovative and ultra-delicate adhesive formulation, the product offers excellent anchorage and delivers sharp break lines on freshly painted and ultra sensitive areas while ensuring a gentle and clean removal up to one week after the application, so you won’t worry about leaving masking tape for too long and taking your time.

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Discover our multi-pack or box solution to be sure you always have the right amount of tapes with you.

If it’s too late...here’s what you can do

Use a hairdryer

Heat can be your best friend, when you have to struggle with stubborn adhesives. Hold the hairdryer a few centimeters away from the surface until the heat will soften the adhesive, then gently remove the tape from the wallpaper. As an alternative to hairdryer, you can also use a heat gun or even a blow torch (just be careful, they can be REALLY hot!). This technique will work on almost any kind of masking tape and remove it from wallpaper, but also from painted walls, wood finishes or furniture.

Use a chemical solvent

If you don’t want to take the risk of getting burnt, you can try a chemical solvent or rubbing alcohol. Of course, we suggest you to test a small area first, unless you want to spoil all your work. Consider using a little rubbing alcohol, which is a non-solvent for pressure-sensitive adhesives. When you apply rubbing alcohol, the adhesive residue will lose its adhesion and you will easily take it off. This can also work with acetone, or nail polish remover. Keep in mind that alcohol or acetone may damage painted surfaces, so be careful when using these substances.