Waterproof Labels and Stickers

Before we get into this, ask yourself this question: “Do my labels really need to be waterproof?”

Why? Because quite often all you need is a label that’s water resistant. And if that’s all you need then you have a lot more options to choose from in terms of materials and finishes.

If you need labels that are truly waterproof then you’re pretty much limited to using polypropylene (a.k.a. ‘vinyl labels’) because it’s about the only material that doesn’t absorb water. (But that doesn’t mean you can keep them submerged or use them in marine environments. They’re not designed for that sort of thing.)

But sometimes you really do need a waterproof label. Beer labels and Craft Beer Labels, for example, have to survive the bottles being sterilised, filled and rinsed. And if the label is for something that will be used outside, it’s practically mandatory.

While adding film lamination to paper labels will make them waterproof, it defeats the purpose of using paper labels in the first place. You no longer be able to feel the luxurious texture of the paper. You may as well just print your labels on polypropylene film.

There’s also a chance of air getting trapped between the two layers and causing unsightly air bubbles.

We understand that your paper labels need to survive in a commercial environment. But again, do they really need to be waterproof? Perhaps they only need to be water resistant.

If that’s the case, then you\ should be okay because we give all our paper labels a UV protective varnish. As well as protecting the label from UV, it ‘seals’ the paper label. (The lacquer saturates the paper, reducing its ability to absorb water.)

Before you order your labels you should always test them in whatever environment they’ll be used. That’s why we’re happy to send you a free sample book so you can both test the materials and decide which print finish you prefer.

Request A Sample Pack