Label Adhesives: Permanent vs. Removable
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What type of label adhesive is best for your products
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When it comes to labeling your products, the adhesive you choose plays a huge role in how well your labels perform. Whether your items will be sitting on shelves for a while, traveling in boxes, or heading for recycling, it’s important to pick the right adhesive. Stick around to find out the difference between permanent and removable label adhesives, and which one is best for your products.
At Avery, we always recommend testing your labels and their adhesives on your specific containers before you place a large order. After all, you want to make sure they stick in the right places and perform well, no matter where your product ends up.
Permanent Label Adhesive
Permanent adhesive is the go-to for most labels and stickers—and for good reason. It’s cost-effective and creates a strong bond with nearly any surface. Once you’ve applied these labels, they’re here to stay. Removing them usually requires a little soaking, scraping, or another method of removal.
Labels with permanent adhesive are great for:
Product labels: Your branding is the first thing your customers see, so you want it to stick around. Permanent labels stay put through time on shelves, in boxes, and beyond—without peeling or curling.
Asset tracking & security: Need to track your company’s equipment, secure expensive items, or protect food deliveries? Permanent labels, including tamperproof options, are your go-to solution.
Shipping labels: Ensuring your shipping labels stay secure during transit is essential. Permanent adhesive keeps your labels intact while on their journey. If you’re using shipping labels on reusable packaging, though, consider removable labels so customers can easily reuse the box.
Warning & safety labels: Many industries—food, medical, and more—require safety and warning labels. Permanent adhesive ensures these important labels stay in place where they’re needed.
Outdoor labels: Outdoor conditions like sun, moisture, and extreme temperatures can wreak havoc on labels. To keep your labels intact in these environments, you’ll need a durable permanent adhesive.
Removable Label Adhesive
Need a label you can peel off without leaving sticky residue or damaging your packaging? Removable adhesive labels are the way to go. These labels can be easily removed after application, making them perfect for certain uses. That said, removable labels tend to bond more strongly the longer they’re left in place, so they may not come off as easily after sitting on a shelf for a long time.
If you’re selling products like candles, where customers may want to reuse the container, removable labels are ideal. But if your product doesn’t require label removal, a permanent adhesive will save you time and money.
Labels with removable adhesive are great for:
Product labels and price tags: Let’s face it, nobody likes struggling to remove a price tag or product label from something they want to keep. Removable labels make sure your customers can display and enjoy their items without frustration.
Medical charts and specimens: Medical facilities often need to update charts or label specimens. Removable medical labels allow for easy organization and quick updates without leaving behind sticky messes.
Produce: We’ve all seen those little stickers on fruits and veggies. Since these labels need to be removed before consuming the item, removable adhesives are the perfect choice.
Recyclable or reusable containers: If you’re using sustainable containers—like Mason jars for your salsa line—customers may want to reuse them. Removable adhesive labels make it easy for them to peel the label off and reuse the jar, helping to keep your brand eco-friendly and customer-focused. Plus, many recyclable materials require label removal before processing.
A few final tips
As a general rule, we always recommend testing your labels and their adhesive on your product before you commit to a large order. Apply the label, wait 24 to 48 hours, and check how it performs. This little extra step can save you from a labeling headache down the line. You can also request a free sample pack from Avery to explore all the material options and find the best fit for your needs.
If you have any questions or need help choosing the right label for your project, don’t hesitate to reach out to our friendly customer care team at (800) 462-8379. We’re always here to help you with all your label needs.
