Best Wallpaper Steamers of 2026
Stripping old wallpaper is one of the most tedious DIY jobs. The right wallpaper steamer makes it fast and clean, saving hours of scraping and avoiding damage to your plasterboard.
Quick answer
For most homeowners, the Wagner 705 Wallpaper Steamer delivers the best balance of heat-up speed, steam output, and plate size. If you have a large house to strip, the Earlex SS77USV offers a bigger water tank and continuous steam for longer sessions.
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Research updated June 2026.
Wagner 705 Wallpaper Steamer
Fastest heat-up and largest steam plate in its class.
| Product | Best For | Key Spec | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wagner 705 | Overall / Speed | 1500 W, 3.8 L tank | 4.5/5 | See link |
| Earlex SS77USV | Large areas | 1500 W, 4.5 L tank | 4.4/5 | See link |
| Black+Decker BDSL300 | Budget / Small jobs | 1200 W, 2.5 L tank | 4.2/5 | See link |
| Wagner 718 | Versatility (steamer + scraper) | 1500 W, 3.8 L tank | 4.3/5 | See link |
| Sealey SA73 | Heavy-duty / Trade | 2000 W, 7 L tank | 4.1/5 | See link |
Wagner 705 Wallpaper Steamer
Best OverallPros
- Heats up in under 5 minutes
- Large steam plate covers more area
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
Cons
- Plastic parts feel less durable
- Hose can kink occasionally
The Wagner 705 is the most popular wallpaper steamer on the market for good reason. Its 1500-watt element brings water to steam quickly, and the 3.8-liter tank provides about 45 minutes of continuous steam. The large 10x10-inch steam plate means you can treat a full strip of wallpaper in one pass, which speeds up the job considerably.
Owner reviews consistently praise its performance on both vinyl and traditional paper wallpapers. The main downsides are the plastic construction of the water tank and the hose, which can be prone to kinking if not stored properly. For the price, it is the best entry-level to mid-range steamer available.
Earlex SS77USV Wallpaper Steamer
Best for Large AreasPros
- Largest tank capacity in its class
- Continuous steam output
- Includes multiple scraper attachments
Cons
- Heavier than competitors
- Heat-up time is slightly longer
The Earlex SS77USV is designed for bigger projects. With a 4.5-liter water tank, it can run for up to an hour on a single fill, making it ideal for stripping multiple rooms or large hallways. The steam output is consistent and the hose is longer than most, giving you good reach without moving the boiler constantly.
Owners note that the build quality is solid, with a metal boiler housing that feels more durable than the Wagner 705. The trade-off is weight: at 10.5 lbs empty, it is heavier to carry around. It also takes a couple of minutes longer to reach full steam pressure. For extensive wallpaper removal, this is a reliable workhorse.
Black+Decker BDSL300 Wallpaper Steamer
Best BudgetPros
- Very affordable price point
- Lightweight and compact
- Easy to store
Cons
- Smaller steam plate
- Slower heat-up and lower steam output
The Black+Decker BDSL300 is the right choice if you have a single small room or just a feature wall to strip. It is a compact, lightweight unit that is easy to carry and store. The 1200-watt element is less powerful than the Wagner or Earlex, but it still gets the job done on standard wallpaper.
Owner feedback highlights its value for money. The main trade-offs are the smaller 2.5-liter tank, which means more frequent refills, and a smaller steam plate that covers less area per pass. It is not ideal for heavy-duty or large-scale projects, but for occasional use, it is a solid budget option.
Wagner 718 Wallpaper Steamer
Best VersatilityPros
- Comes with a powered scraper attachment
- Same fast heat-up as Wagner 705
- Good steam output
Cons
- Powered scraper can be noisy
- Higher price than standard model
The Wagner 718 is essentially the same boiler unit as the 705, but it includes a powered scraper tool that oscillates to help remove wallpaper without as much manual effort. This can be a real time-saver on stubborn, multiple-layer wallpapers that resist steaming alone.
Reviews indicate the steamer itself performs identically to the 705, with the same 1500-watt element and 3.8-liter tank. The powered scraper is a nice addition, though some users find it adds weight and noise. If you value convenience and are willing to pay a bit more, the 718 is a versatile kit.
Sealey SA73 Wallpaper Steamer
Best Heavy-Duty / TradePros
- Very high steam output
- Large 7-liter tank for long sessions
- Metal boiler construction
Cons
- Heavy and bulky
- Overkill for most DIY jobs
The Sealey SA73 is a professional-grade wallpaper steamer built for contractors and serious renovators. With a 2000-watt element and a massive 7-liter water tank, it delivers powerful, continuous steam for up to 90 minutes. The metal boiler is much more durable than the plastic tanks on consumer models.
Owner reviews from tradespeople praise its reliability and speed. It strips wallpaper faster than any other model on this list. The main drawbacks are its size and weight: at 14.5 lbs, it is not something you want to carry up and down stairs all day. For a single-room DIY project, it is more machine than you need.
What to check before buying a wallpaper steamer
Before you choose a wallpaper steamer, consider the size of your project. For a single room, a smaller tank like 2.5 liters is fine. For a whole house, look for 4 liters or more. The power rating (wattage) determines how fast the water heats and how much steam is produced. Most models are 1200 to 1500 watts, which is adequate for DIY use. Professional models go up to 2000 watts.
Also check the steam plate size. A larger plate covers more area per pass, speeding up the job. Weight matters too: you will be holding the plate against the wall for extended periods. Lighter units are easier on your arms. Finally, look at hose length. A longer hose lets you move the plate around without dragging the boiler.
Mistakes to avoid when using a wallpaper steamer
One common mistake is over-wetting the wallpaper. You only need to steam until the paper is damp and the adhesive softens. Too much steam can damage the plasterboard underneath. Another error is not scoring the wallpaper first. If the wallpaper is vinyl or has a waterproof coating, use a scoring tool to create holes so the steam can penetrate.
Do not leave the steamer unattended while it is heating. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for filling and operating. Finally, do not try to strip wallpaper without protecting the floor. Use drop cloths to catch drips and peeled paper, which can stain carpets or wood floors.
FAQs
Can I use a wallpaper steamer on painted walls?
Yes, but you need to score the paint first so the steam can reach the wallpaper underneath. A scoring tool is essential for painted or vinyl wallpapers.
How long does it take to heat up a wallpaper steamer?
Most models take between 3 and 8 minutes to produce steam, depending on the wattage and water temperature. The Wagner 705 is one of the fastest at around 4 minutes.
Is a wallpaper steamer better than a scraper?
Yes, for most jobs. Steaming softens the adhesive, making wallpaper much easier to remove without damaging the wall. Manual scraping alone is slower and harder work.
Can I rent a wallpaper steamer instead of buying one?
Yes, many tool rental shops offer wallpaper steamers. Renting is a good option if you only have one small room to do, but buying is cheaper if you have multiple rooms.
How much water does a wallpaper steamer use?
It depends on the model and how long you use it. A typical 3.8-liter tank will last about 45 minutes of continuous steaming. Larger tanks like 7 liters can last up to 90 minutes.
Can a wallpaper steamer damage plasterboard?
Yes, if you hold the steam plate in one spot for too long or use too much steam. The moisture can soften the plasterboard. Always keep the plate moving and use the minimum steam needed.
Do I need a special scraper for wallpaper?
A wide, sharp scraper is helpful. Many steamers come with a scraper attachment. You can also buy a separate wallpaper scraper with a longer handle for easier use.
Can I use a wallpaper steamer outside?
It is not recommended. Most wallpaper steamers are designed for indoor use only. Using them outdoors can expose the electrical components to moisture and dirt.
How do I clean a wallpaper steamer after use?
Empty the water tank completely and let it dry. Wipe the steam plate with a damp cloth. Do not store the steamer with water in the tank, as this can cause limescale buildup.
What is the best wallpaper steamer for a beginner?
The Wagner 705 is the best choice for beginners because it is easy to use, heats up fast, and has a large steam plate. It is forgiving and effective for most DIY projects.
Our verdict
For most DIYers, the Wagner 705 is the best wallpaper steamer overall due to its fast heat-up, large steam plate, and reasonable price. If you are on a tight budget, the Black+Decker BDSL300 is a capable, lightweight option for small jobs. For large-scale projects, the Earlex SS77USV offers the longest runtime.