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Are labels waterproof?
Most labels are waterproof, as long as they have the right finish on top. A laminated label handles water, condensation and a bit of oil just fine, while an uncoated paper label is a lot happier on a dry shelf.
So if your product ends up in the fridge, the bathroom or an ice bucket, it's worth knowing which label to choose. Here's what I'd go for, plus a few tips to make sure your labels stay put.
TL;DR:
Are labels waterproof?
Labels with a laminate are. Our White vinyl, Clear and Metallic labels all come with a glossy or matte laminate that protects the print from water, oil and condensation. Kraft paper labels are uncoated and best kept dry.
Which labels are best for products that get wet?
White vinyl, Clear or Metallic. They all handle splashes, condensation and the fridge, so it really comes down to the look you want.
Can waterproof labels go underwater?
Not for long. They're made for wet conditions, but not to be fully submerged.
Are labels waterproof?
Most of ours are. White vinyl, Clear and Metallic labels all come with a glossy or matte laminate, which is a thin protective layer on top of the print. It works as a waterproof barrier, so water, oil and scratches stay on the surface instead of getting into your design.
That means splashes, condensation and wet hands are no problem at all. The only thing they're not made for is being fully submerged (more on that further down).
Kraft paper labels are the exception. They're uncoated, which makes them lovely to write on by hand, but the paper soaks up moisture and can wrinkle or fade when it gets wet. I'd save them for dry products.
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Which label material is best for wet products?
Truth is, all three of our laminated materials handle moisture just fine. So if your product is going to get wet, the choice is really about the look you're after.
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White vinyl: the reliable classic
A bright white base that keeps colors bold and small print sharp, even in damp conditions. Great for cold brew, bath products or condiment jars. Not sure where to start? White vinyl is a safe pick for pretty much anything.
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Clear: the no-label look
Your design sits on the glass almost like it was printed right on it. On dark or colored bottles, I'd add a white layer behind text and logos so they're easy to read. Clear labels stick best to smooth glass and plastic.
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Metallic: the shiny one
A silver, mirror-like base that makes logos catch the light, with a laminate that protects it from water, smudges and scratches. Metallic labels come with glossy for the strongest shine or matte for a softer look.
Do labels survive the fridge?
Yes. Our laminated labels are made to handle refrigeration and condensation, so the fridge is no problem.
The tricky part is actually putting them on. Labels need a clean, dry surface to stick properly, and a bottle straight out of the fridge usually isn't one, since it gets covered in condensation pretty quickly. So label your bottles and jars while they're still dry, before they go in the fridge.
It's a small thing, but it's often what decides if a label stays put or starts lifting at the edges after a week.
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Can waterproof labels go underwater?
Not for long. Our labels handle splashes, condensation and wet hands, but they're not made to be fully submerged.
An ice bucket is a good example. Melting ice and a bottle that gets pulled out and put back all evening is totally fine. A bottle sitting deep in ice water for hours is a different story. So if you're chilling bubbly for a party, my tip is to let the ice do the cooling and keep the water level below the label. Your drinks still get cold, and your labels still look good at the end of the night.
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Laminate or varnish for waterproof labels?
Varnish is a thin liquid coating that gives light scratch protection, but it isn't waterproof. A laminate is a separate protective layer over the whole label, so if your labels are going to get wet, laminate is the one to go for. Our varnish vs laminate guide goes deeper into the difference.
After that, it's just glossy or matte:
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Glossy laminate makes colors look rich and shiny.
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Matte laminate cuts the glare and gives a smooth, premium look.
Both protect against water, oil and scratches, so go with the one that suits your brand. Personally, I'd go matte on a dark wine bottle and glossy on anything bright and colorful.
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Time to make your labels
So, to sum it up: if your product is going to meet water, condensation or the fridge, go for White vinyl, Clear or Metallic and pick the laminate you like best. Glossy if you want colors that shine, matte if you're after a softer, more premium look. Kraft paper is lovely too, just keep it for the dry stuff, like coffee bags and spice jars.
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