Graco vs Harris Wallpaper Steamer
Stripping stubborn wallpaper is a messy chore, and the right steamer can cut your work time in half. We compare the Graco and Harris wallpaper steamers on power, heat-up speed, and durability to help you choose the best tool for your next renovation.
Quick answer
For heavy-duty, continuous use on large rooms, choose the Graco 555. For occasional DIY projects on a budget, the Harris 2-Gallon Steamer offers excellent value and portability. The Graco is the professional's pick; the Harris is the DIY champion.
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Research updated June 2026.
| Specification | Graco 555 (Pro) | Harris 2-Gallon |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Large rooms & professional use | Small rooms & budget DIY |
| Tank Capacity | 5.5 quarts (1.4 gal) | 2 gallons (8 quarts) |
| Heat-Up Time | ~7 minutes | ~12 minutes |
| Steam Output | Continuous, high-pressure | Continuous, moderate |
| Hose Length | 12 feet | 10 feet |
| Weight (empty) | 12 lbs | 10 lbs |
| Warranty | 1 year | 90 days |
| Rating (Owner Reviews) | 4.5 / 5 | 4.2 / 5 |
| Price Tier | $$$ | $ |
Graco 555: The Professional Workhorse
The Graco 555 is built for contractors and serious DIYers who need to strip wallpaper all day. Its 1.4-gallon tank heats up in about 7 minutes and delivers a steady, high-volume steam that penetrates multiple layers of wallpaper quickly. The 12-foot hose gives you excellent reach without moving the unit, and the brass heating element is known for longevity.
Owner reviews consistently praise its reliability and power. The main downsides are the higher price and heavier weight. It is less portable than the Harris, and the smaller tank means you refill more often on big jobs.
Harris 2-Gallon: The Budget-Friendly DIY Choice
The Harris 2-Gallon steamer is a favorite for occasional users. It holds more water (2 gallons) so you can work longer between refills, though it takes about 12 minutes to heat up. The steam output is adequate for single-layer wallpapers and smaller rooms. Its lighter weight and lower price make it an easy buy for homeowners.
Owner reviews highlight its value and simplicity. The main complaints are a slower heat-up time and a slightly less durable plastic housing compared to the Graco's metal construction. The shorter 90-day warranty is also a factor for heavy users.
What to Check Before Buying a Wallpaper Steamer
Steam output and pressure: Higher output strips wallpaper faster. Look for units with continuous steam rather than intermittent bursts. Heat-up time: Faster heat-up means less waiting. A good steamer should be ready in under 15 minutes. Tank capacity: Larger tanks mean fewer refills but add weight. Balance your need for portability with job size. Hose length: A longer hose lets you reach high walls and corners without moving the unit. Build quality: Metal heating elements and reinforced plastic or metal tanks last longer. Check warranty length as a sign of confidence.
Mistakes to Avoid When Using a Wallpaper Steamer
Skipping the scoring step: Perforating the wallpaper with a scorer lets steam penetrate faster. Skipping this doubles your work time. Over-wetting the wall: Too much steam can damage drywall. Use a scraper to test if the paper lifts easily. Ignoring safety: Steam burns are serious. Wear gloves and long sleeves, and keep children and pets away. Using on painted walls: Steam can loosen paint. Test a small area first. Not covering floors: Hot water drips can damage flooring. Use drop cloths.
FAQs
Can I use a wallpaper steamer on painted walls?
Yes, but test a small area first as steam can soften paint. It works best on unpainted wallpaper.
How long does it take to strip wallpaper with a steamer?
For a 10x10 room, expect 2-4 hours with a good steamer. The Graco is faster due to higher steam output.
Is the Harris wallpaper steamer good for popcorn ceilings?
It can be used, but a dedicated ceiling scraper and a spray bottle are often easier for small areas.
Which steamer has a longer hose?
The Graco 555 has a 12-foot hose, while the Harris 2-Gallon has a 10-foot hose.
Can I rent a wallpaper steamer instead of buying?
Yes, but for the price of a Harris, buying is often cheaper than renting for a weekend.
Does the Graco 555 come with a scraper?
No, it includes the steamer unit, hose, and steam plate. You will need to buy a scraper separately.
Is the Harris steamer safe for vinyl wallpaper?
Yes, but vinyl is non-porous so scoring is essential. Steam will loosen the adhesive underneath.
How do I descale my wallpaper steamer?
Use a 50/50 mix of white vinegar and water, run it through the tank, then rinse with clean water.
What is the warranty on the Graco 555?
Graco offers a 1-year limited warranty on the 555 model.
What is the warranty on the Harris 2-Gallon?
Harris provides a 90-day limited warranty on their 2-gallon steamer.
Our verdict
Choose the Graco 555 for heavy-duty, professional-grade stripping on large jobs. Choose the Harris 2-Gallon for budget-conscious DIYers tackling small to medium rooms. Both are reliable, but the Graco wins on power and speed, while the Harris wins on value and portability.