Popcorn (stippled) ceilings date a home, and removing them for a smooth finish is a popular update. There's one crucial safety step before you start, especially in older homes.
Test for asbestos first
Textured ceilings installed before the 1990s may contain asbestos, which is hazardous when disturbed. Have a sample tested by a lab before scraping any older ceiling. If it contains asbestos, hire a licensed abatement professional — do not scrape it yourself.
Scrape (if safe)
If the ceiling is asbestos-free, cover the floor and walls, lightly mist the texture with water to soften it, and scrape it off with a wide putty knife. Misting controls dust and makes scraping easier. Work in sections.
Skim and finish
After scraping, the ceiling usually needs a skim coat of joint compound to fill gouges and even it out, then sanding, priming, and painting for a smooth modern finish.