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Can Paper Labels Be Used on Plastic Containers?

Considering paper labels for products in plastic bottles or jars? They can work, but only if you match the right materials to the right conditions.

Here’s what to keep in mind to make sure your labels stay put:

What to Consider

Pressure Sensitive Labels on honey jars

1. Plastic Surfaces: Material, Shape and Texture

Plastic containers are usually smooth and non-porous. That means plain uncoated paper struggles to stick reliably. You need coated, flexible paper plus adhesives designed for plastics like polyethylene (HDPE) or polypropylene (PP).

Note: You can see some of our coated paper options on our Materials page.

If your containers are curved, tapered, or squeezable, you’re likely better off with another material altogether, like MDO for squeezable containers or shrink sleeves for curved or tapered containers.

2. Product Environments and Label Performance

Your labels go through more than just the environment at application. Think about:

Application line – cold sensors or fast application speeds can impact adhesive bond
Warehousing – humid or cold storage may weaken paper labels or cause curling
Shipping/handling – scratching or abrasion can happen from friction in boxing, stacking, or retail displays
End-user use – exposure to moisture, oils, refrigeration, or grease can smudge, smear, or damage labels

Coated paper offers improved moisture resistance, but it’s not waterproof.

If your packaging is exposed to refrigeration or wet conditions, you’ll definitely need to use a laminate or UV coating for protection. For products like this, we often recommend tougher label materials like BOPP for these types of environments.

Body butter jars with custom labels

3. Design & Finishing Options That Work on Paper

Paper labels do offer premium print performance and support embellishments like spot UV, matte or gloss lamination, hot‑foil stamping, screen printing, and embossing.

Spot UV works well on coated paper and adds contrast or glossy accents, perfect for brand names or logos. It also gives scratch resistance when used selectively.

Finishes like foil or embossing can elevate the look of paper labels, but in high-friction or moisture-heavy environments, you’ll want to protect those surfaces with lamination or varnish to maintain shelf appeal and label integrity.

4. Regulatory and Compliance Considerations

If your product falls into food, beverage, cosmetic, or health categories (even if the label doesn’t directly touch the product) you’ll need materials that meet FDA guidelines for indirect food contact.

That means the paper, adhesive, and inks must all be safe to use under FDA rules like this one for adhesives and this one for paper coatings. We can help you sort through the right choices.

5. Sustainability & Recycling Impacts

Paper labels can interfere with plastic recycling, especially with PET bottles.

During recycling, bottles are washed to remove labels. If leftover paper fibers mix into the recycled plastic, they can mess with the clarity or consistency of rPET.

The Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR) recommends keeping label coverage under 60–70% and avoiding metallic inks or foils that complicate sorting.

Paper labels are often easier to remove than film labels, which can help with container reuse or composting. If recyclability is a priority, film labels made from the same type of plastic as your container (like polypropylene on polypropylene) can be a better match.

6. How to Match Adhesive, Facestock & Container Type

Matching your coated paper label to the correct adhesive makes all the difference. Here’s a general starting point:

Container Plastic	Suggested Paper + Adhesive Pairing
Polypropylene (PP) or HDPE	Coated paper + high‑tack adhesive designed for low-energy surfaces
PET	Standard coated paper + acrylic adhesive
Curved or squeeze bottle	Shrink sleeves for curved containers or MDO for squeeze bottles (no, they’re not paper, but they’re better options)

Final Thoughts

Paper labels can be an option for plastic containers as long as you know where they work and where they might fall short (or fall off). With the right materials and adhesives, they can hold strong and look great doing it.

Not sure which label material makes sense for your bottles? Contact us and we’ll walk you through it.

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How to Prevent Labels from Scratching or Abrasion During Shipping and Handling

If your labels look great coming off the line but arrive damaged at their destination, friction and abrasion during shipping and handling are likely the culprits. Fortunately, you can solve these problems by choosing the right materials, adhesives, and finishes.

Here’s what you need to consider to protect your labels from scratching, rubbing, and peeling.

Beer cans with labels

Pick the Right Label Material for Your Packaging Type

Not all label materials handle friction equally, and the right choice depends on your packaging and environment:

Polypropylene (BOPP): Flexible and moisture-resistant. Great for bottles, jars, and pouches in food, beverage, and personal care.
Polyester (PET): Strong, chemical-resistant, and built to take a beating. A go-to for electronics, home goods, or anything with a rough transport.
Vinyl: Very flexible, used for curved surfaces or squeeze containers. Should be paired with a strong finish.

We usually recommend PET or BOPP for anything that’s going to get tossed, stacked, or bumped in transit.

Match Your Adhesive to Your Packaging and Conditions

A mismatched adhesive can cause labels to lift or curl, making them easy targets for abrasion. Here’s how to make sure yours sticks:

Permanent acrylic adhesives are solid choices for corrugate, plastic, or glass.
High-tack adhesives grip tight to tough surfaces like HDPE (think: detergent bottles).
Cold-temperature adhesives are good in refrigerated or frozen environments.

Tip: Apply labels in clean, dry, and temperature-controlled conditions. If a label isn’t stuck down properly, it’s more likely to rub, shift, or catch, which can lead to damage.

Skincare products with custom labels

Add a Protective Finish That Matches Risk and Budget

A good finish is like body armor for your label—it helps it survive the bumps, scrapes, and scuffs that happen after it leaves your hands:

Lamination (polypropylene or polyester): The go-to for rough shipping environments like pallets or cold chain logistics. See our lamination options.
High-rub varnish: Perfect for rigid containers and folding cartons. It holds up well for day-to-day handling without the higher price tag of full lamination.
UV varnish: A solid middle ground if you want extra protection against moisture and chemicals while keeping the label look intact.

Comparing Protective Finishes

Checklist: Prevent Label Abrasion

Choose abrasion-resistant materials (BOPP, PET)
Match adhesives to your packaging material and conditions
Apply lamination or high-rub varnish based on product exposure
Check about abrasion testing with your printer
Apply labels in clean, controlled conditions

What to Ask Your Label Printer

You don’t have to figure it out on your own. Ask these questions to make sure your printer understands what your packaging is up against:

Which label materials and adhesives fit my product and shipping conditions?
What protective finishes do you recommend for scratch-prone surfaces?
Can I compare varnish and laminate side by side?
What durability tests have you done on these combinations?

If you’re experiencing label abrasion issues or just want to avoid them in the future, contact us and we’ll walk you through the right materials, adhesives, and finishes for your products.

Tier	Construction	Use Case	Why It Fits
Good	BOPP + gloss varnish	Dry shelf goods with minimal rubbing	Budget-friendly, moderate protection
Better	BOPP + high-rub matte varnish	Retail items with light handling	Increased scratch resistance
Best	BOPP or PET + full laminate	Cold chain, rough shipping, pallets	Highest durability under harsh conditions

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How to Prevent Labels from Melting or Warping in Hot-Filled Products

If you’ve ever had labels warp, peel, or slide right off bottles or jars after hot filling, you know how frustrating and costly that can be. We’ve seen it all, and we know what works (and what doesn’t). It’s always best to apply labels on a clean, dry, and room temperature container. But, sometimes it is necessary to hot fill.

Here’s what you need to know to keep your labels intact in hot-fill conditions.

Quick Checklist to Avoid Hot-Fill Label Failures:

Select heat-resistant label materials (like BOPP or PET)
Use adhesives specifically rated for high temperatures
Make sure containers are clean, dry, and prepped right
Choose label finishes that add durability (laminates, varnishes)
Test label performance in real-world conditions before scaling up

Pick the Right Label Material

The first thing to get right is your label material. Not all of them handle heat the same way. We recommend:

BOPP (Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene): Durable, heat-tolerant, and reliable.
PET (Polyester): Excellent heat resistance and dimensional stability.
MDO: Similar to BOPP in terms of durability, heat tolerance, and reliability, MDO may be the better option depending on the container due to its flexibility.

Standard paper labels? Paper labels are possible for hot-fill products but be mindful of the type of adhesive used.

Not sure which material makes sense for your product? Contact us and we’ll walk you through it.

Choose Heat-Resistant Adhesives

Your adhesive is just as important as your material (if not more). Without the right one, even the best label will fail.

Most high-temp adhesives are rated for around 180–200°F, but results can vary depending on your container and fill speed. Always check the adhesive spec sheet and make sure it’s tested for your exact application.

Add Label Finishing for Extra Protection

Finishes help your label survive the journey from fill line to store shelf. They protect against scuffs, moisture, and the occasional warehouse disaster. Here’s what we like:

Clear polypropylene or PET lamination: Great for moisture and abrasion resistance. Check out our lamination options.
UV Varnishes: Good for extra durability without changing the feel too much.

Some finishes can change the look or feel a bit, so test them out before you commit.

Prep Your Containers the Right Way

Labels don’t stand a chance on a wet or dirty surface. And if you’re labeling plastics like polypropylene or HDPE, you’re starting with a tough surface to bond to. Here’s what helps:

Dry the containers completely. Use air knives or drying tunnels.
Wipe away oils, dust, or residue.

Prep won’t fix everything, but it goes a long way toward keeping your labels where they belong.

Apply Labels Under the Right Conditions

When it comes to applying labels after a hot fill, timing and pressure make all the difference:

Temperature: Wait until containers cool to below 90°F before labeling.
Pressure: Use consistent pressure so the label fully bonds.
Dwell Time: Let the adhesive cure for at least 24–72 hours before handling or shipping. That gives it time to fully settle in, especially in humid or changing environments.

Running at scale? Run a small test batch first and check with your applicator manufacturer for pressure settings.

Validate and Test Before You Go All In

Even with the right setup, things can go sideways. That’s why testing is key. We suggest:

Run a short trial batch.
Mimic your exact fill and cooling process.
Check your labels right away, then again after 24 and 72 hours.

Look for curling, peeling, bubbling, or anything that could get worse later. A little testing up front can save you a lot of headaches later.

Quick Summary

If you want labels that stay put after hot filling, you need the right combo of materials, adhesive, prep, and finishing.

Need help figuring it out? Contact us and we’ll help you find the right setup for your product, container, and process.

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White Vinyl: An Ideal Option for Outdoor and Water-Resistant Product Labels

If you’ve been searching for durable label materials, you might have come across white vinyl as one of the top options. It’s a type of vinyl used for product labeling in commercial and industrial applications, including food and beverages, outdoor, health and beauty, home, and industrial products.

White vinyl is a good material choice for many reasons. It’s water-resistant, flexible, and thicker than other label options—all thanks to its powerful polyvinyl chloride (PVC) resin composition. This makes white vinyl an ideal material for both indoor and outdoor products.

Should you use white vinyl labels for your product label? Let’s take a look at some of the considerations, benefits, and uses of white vinyl, along with some of its limitations.

What Is White Vinyl?

White vinyl is best known for its water resistance and protection from UV light and has a smooth, glossy finish. If you’re looking for a label that maintains its integrity and appearance even in the face of tough environments, white vinyl may be a good choice.

Water Resistance and Performance of White Vinyl Labels in Humid or Wet Environments

If your product will encounter moisture or humidity, white vinyl might be a good choice of material. As we’ve mentioned, it’s known for its exceptional water resistance. While white vinyl will maintain its integrity when exposed to moisture, other materials like paper labels can deteriorate or peel when wet.

While a product with a peeling or deteriorating label isn’t a good look, beyond that it’s important for labels to stick to maintain important product safety, compliance, and even ingredient information.

Some of the industries that commonly use white vinyl for their product labels include:

Beverages: Labels for beer, water, juice, and other drinks are commonly exposed to ice, moisture, and spills from the liquid inside.
Food: Labels for jars, cans, and other containers that need to be refrigerated, frozen, or may be exposed to spills from contents.
Cosmetic Products: Labels for lotions, shampoos, and other bathroom essentials that live in humid bathroom environments or are susceptible to oils from the product inside.
Cleaning Supplies: Labels for detergents, sprays, and other household cleaners need to withstand moisture and mist from the products inside.

Durability and Suitability of White Vinyl for Outdoor Use

While other materials may be more likely to fade, crack, or peel under harsh weather conditions, white vinyl is more likely to maintain its appearance and adhesion to its container.

Outdoor products that commonly use white vinyl for their product labels include:

Lawn and Garden: Whether its lawn tools or fertilizers, durable vinyl labels withstand outdoor storage conditions.
Sports Equipment: Labels for outdoor gear like bicycles, surfboards, and kayaks need the durability of a material like vinyl.
Outdoor Furniture: Labels for chairs, tables, and umbrellas need to endure sun and rain on patios and decks.

Adhesive Performance of White Vinyl on Different Surfaces

In addition to their durability, white vinyl is also known for having strong adhesive properties, making it a suitable label choice for a wide range of container and product surfaces.

Different sizes and materials of containers

Here are some of the many suitable surfaces that white vinyl works with:

Plastic: For bottles, containers, and even products made from plastic, white vinyl will adhere well.
Glass: Bottles, cleaning supplies, and even windows, white vinyl works on transparent and translucent products or containers.
Metal: From outdoor machinery to tools, white vinyl adheres well especially on smooth and clean surfaces.
Wood: Home goods, furniture, and even tools, white vinyl has good adhesion on smooth, treated wood surfaces.

While white vinyl is versatile in many ways, it does have its limitations. The material won’t perform well on rough, textured, oily, or greasy surfaces. It may also degrade under extreme heat.

Permanent vs. Removable Adhesives

White vinyl will work with both permanent and removable adhesives as long as the surface has been prepared appropriately. Not sure which adhesive is right for your application? Consider this:

Permanent: Best for long-lasting applications that need to stay in place for a product’s lifetime. These will be difficult to remove without leaving residue.
Removable: Better suited for temporary labels that will come off clean without damaging the surface of leaving residue.

Printing Quality and Capabilities of White Vinyl Labels

You might be thinking “since white vinyl is so versatile in its durability, there must be limitations in print quality…” In fact, white vinyl labels happen to be known for their high print quality as well.

The smooth and glossy surface of white vinyl helps to enhance the vibrancy of label designs. This surface actually makes the material an excellent choice for high-res graphics, detailed text, and vivid colors.

Available Shapes and Sizes of White Vinyl Labels

White vinyl labels are available in different sizes and shapes to suit labeling needs in different environments. Depending on your intended use, you can get white vinyl labels in shapes like:

Oval

Square

Rectangle

Circle

White vinyl labels can also be die-cut to virtually any shape or size to accommodate customized designs and specialty container shapes.

Safety and Compliance Considerations of White Vinyl Labels

With any label or packaging material, it’s important to be aware of each industry’s compliance and regulatory requirements. Industries like food and beverage and health and beauty tend to have more regulatory standards that should be considered.

Compliance With Food Regulations

When white vinyl is used for food products, make sure that it’s made from materials that are FDA-approved for food contact.

If the label will have direct contact with food, it must meet specific safety standards to avoid contamination. This would include labels of fresh produce, meat packaging, or any item where the label directly touches the food.

If the label will have indirect contact (i.e. labels on the exterior of food packaging), it must still meet FDA regulations to ensure it doesn’t leach harmful substances into the food product.

Compliance With Health and Beauty

Once again, these labels must comply with FDA regulations. That means the labels must be free from harmful chemicals that could affect the product or, ultimately, the consumer.

Ready for More Information?

As you’ve seen, white vinyl is a workhorse material that’s not only durable, but can provide excellent print quality for a variety of product applications. Whether you have a product that will be exposed to moisture and humidity, or a product that will be exposed to the elements outside, white vinyl can help ensure your label remains intact and legible over time.

Ready to discover if white vinyl is right for your labeling project? Learn more about the materials that Blue Label offers, or contact us to talk to our experts about the perfect material for your products.

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How To Prevent Labels from Peeling in the Freezer

Labels that peel, wrinkle, or become unreadable in freezer conditions can throw off production, waste product, and frustrate your customers. Making sure your labels stick (and stay that way) comes down to a handful of decisions about materials, adhesives, and how everything’s applied.

Quick Checklist: Preventing Label Peeling in Freezers

Choose freezer-grade adhesives that match your packaging and storage needs
Use facestocks that holds up to cold, moisture, and handling
Make sure surfaces are clean, dry, and label-ready
Add finishing options that protect the print and edges
Test in real-world conditions before full rollout

1. Choose the Right Freezer-Grade Adhesive

Adhesives are often the culprit behind labels falling off in the cold. Many standard options stop working when the temperature drops. Instead, you’ll want to choose adhesives designed specifically for frozen environments.

Also, make sure your adhesive pairs well with your container material, whether that’s plastic, glass, or something else, and meets any required food safety regulations.

Here’s a quick reference guide:

Plastic containers (like HDPE, LDPE, or PP): These are low surface energy materials, so you’ll want a high-tack adhesive like a freezer-grade hot melt or specially formulated acrylic.
Glass jars or bottles: Most freezer adhesives bond well, but rubber-based or acrylic adhesives offer good clarity and adhesion when surfaces are clean and dry.
Corrugate and paperboard: Acrylic adhesives work well thanks to their quick grab, even on rough surfaces.
Foil or metalized film pouches: Choose an adhesive that accommodates slight surface texture and expansion, typically a flexible acrylic or rubber-based formula.

2. Use Durable Label Materials

Freezer environments are tough on materials. Moisture, cold, and physical handling can cause lower-quality materials to degrade fast. Synthetic face stocks are your best bet:

- BOPP (Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene): Moisture-resistant and stable, great for flat or round, rigid surfaces.
- Polyethylene (PE): More flexible, so it’s perfect for squeezable bottles or curved containers.
- Polyester (PET): Rigid and built to last, especially where labels might get knocked around.

Welded Paper Stocks: Combines the tactile appeal of paper with a BOPP film core for moisture protection and excellent opacity.

Uncoated paper usually isn’t a great fit unless it’s laminated and used in dry freezer settings. It just doesn’t hold up well in moisture-heavy environments.

3. Prepare Surfaces Correctly

Even the best label setup will fail if the surface isn’t ready. Here’s how to set yourself up for success:

Clean and dry the surface: Any moisture, frost, grease, or dust can prevent adhesion. If you can see condensation or residue, wait until it’s clear.
Apply at the right temperature: Many freezer-grade adhesives need to be applied at a certain temperature to bond properly.
Use firm, even pressure: This helps the adhesive stick fully and prevents peeling or bubbling later.

A common mistake? Labeling products right after they’ve been washed or frozen. Moisture ruins the bond.

4. Apply Finishing & Protective Techniques

Once your label is stuck on, you want it to stay readable and intact. That’s where finishing comes in:

Lamination: Adds a tough layer that resists moisture, scratches, and friction, ideal for freezer aisles and products that get handled a lot. Explore lamination options.
UV Varnish or Overcoat: A lighter option for some moisture and scuff resistance.
Label shape matters: Rounded corners can reduce the chances of edge lift, especially on curved or flexible containers.

5. Conduct Testing

Spec sheets only go so far. It’s helpful to test labels in the real conditions they’ll face:

Adhesion tests: Apply labels to your actual packaging and check adhesion after 24–48 hours in the freezer.
Freeze–thaw cycles: See how the label holds up to repeated storage and temperature changes.
Print durability: Make sure barcodes, lot numbers, and branding stay readable and scannable, even after condensation or handling.

Whenever possible, test a few different label constructions side-by-side to see what performs best.

Final Takeaway

If your products need to survive the freezer, your labels need to be up for the challenge. That means choosing the right adhesive and material, prepping your surfaces, protecting your print, and putting everything to the test.

Ready to find a label that sticks? Contact Blue Label Packaging to explore custom freezer-grade label solutions built around your needs.

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Can Foil Labels Be Used on Wine Bottles?

Foil labels can add a bold, eye-catching look to your wine bottles, but only if they’re made to last through bottling, cold storage, and everything in between. Whether you’re using Bordeaux or Burgundy bottles, here’s what to keep in mind before going with foil.

What to Consider Before Choosing Foil Labels

Bottle Shape & Label Fit

Wine bottles come in a variety of shapes: Bordeaux, Burgundy, Alsace, Champagne, and more. Each bottle shape brings its own label considerations:

Bordeaux bottles have tall, straight sides that typically work well with foil labels.
Burgundy bottles have gentle curves that can cause labels to lift at the edges if the wrong material or adhesive is used. A paper stock with the right adhesive, or a polyester (PET) film, is often the safest bet here. Paper provides a classic look, while PET adds extra flexibility and strength to contour to curves.
Alsace bottles are taller and more tapered, which can be even more challenging. For these, using a narrower label or a custom die-cut shape can help ensure full contact and a smoother application. Narrower shapes reduce the amount of stress on the edges, helping avoid wrinkles.
Champagne bottles often have pronounced curves and subtle texture, requiring extra care in both design and material choice. Textured papers with strong adhesives can handle these surfaces, minimizing bubbling and lifting.

Most wine labels are printed on paper stocks designed specifically for wine and spirits. These papers can be coated or uncoated and are compatible with foil stamping. For added durability, polyester (PET) film is another strong option that resists tearing and handles curves well. Both materials are widely used in the wine industry and work effectively with foil embellishments

If you’re unsure, ask us to test-fit the materials on your actual bottles. It can save you a major headache, and a lot of wasted labels, down the road.

Moisture, Cold, & Real-World Handling

From the time your bottles hit the bottling line to chilling in ice bins and shipping, your labels will almost certainly face moisture and abrasion. That’s why we recommend wine-grade paper stocks with wet-strength treatments or polyester (PET) film that resist moisture, won’t break down in cold or wet environments, and are fully compatible with foil stamping.

To protect the foil, finishes like gloss or matte laminates work well with PET materials, while varnishes and protective coatings are often paired with paper labels. Gloss laminates help colors pop and are best for vibrant designs, while matte laminates give a softer, upscale look. Varnishes can also be used, but they’re better for spot treatments or short-run bottles where heavy abrasion isn’t a concern.

These coatings help your foil resist water, scuffs, and handling damage, so your label stays crisp from bottling to the final pour.

Foil Compatibility with Other Finishes

Foil gives your label a nice shimmer, but there’s more than one way to achieve this look. Think about how foil behaves with other finishes or materials. For example:

Hot foil uses heat and pressure to apply metallic foil, creating sharp, reflective accents.
Spot UV adds a high-gloss coating to specific areas like your brand name or logo for contrast and emphasis.
Soft-touch is a matte finish that adds a velvety feel, often paired with foil to create a high-end tactile effect.

We’ve seen hot foil combined with soft-touch stocks on wine labels to highlight logos. This creates a striking contrast of shimmer against a velvety background. This kind of pairing delivers premium shelf appeal and reinforces the sense of quality.

In our experience, foil often pairs well with bold typography or custom die-cut shapes that emphasize contrast and precision.

Regulatory & Legibility Requirements

Wine labels have to meet TTB and FDA standards, such as listing alcohol content, sulfites, and vintage.

Metallic surfaces can sometimes make fine print hard to read, especially in low light. It’s important to test your label under different lighting and distances to make sure everything’s easy to read. For example, check it in bright retail lighting, dim restaurant settings, and natural daylight. Then double-check that it lines up with TTB rules on things like font size and layout.

Sustainability Considerations

If sustainability is part of your packaging goals, here are a few ways to make foil labels work in that direction:

Choose substrates with wash-off adhesives that let labels come off cleanly during the glass recycling process.
Use FSC-certified papers if you’re working with paper-based labels. Many of these are now designed for wine applications and are compatible with foil.
For film-based options, recyclable PET is a better choice than other plastics since it can be processed in more recycling streams.
Think about how foil placement or backing materials affect recyclability.

Quick Checklist: Will Foil Labels Work for Your Wine Bottles?

Before you commit, here are a few questions worth running through with your label printing partner:

Is your label material, whether paper or PET, flexible enough to stay flat on curved or tapered bottles without lifting?
Have you picked a protective finish that works with foil and stands up to cold and moisture if required?
Does your design use foil in a way that highlights key elements without sacrificing readability?
Have you checked how your foil label looks under different lighting conditions such as retail stores or restaurants, and at shelf distance?
Have you looked into foil-compatible papers and PET films that support recyclability, if this is important to your brand?

Can Foil Labels Be Used on Wine Bottles?

We’ve seen winemakers use foil to create a more high-end, polished look that helps their bottles stand out on the shelf. When you pair the right materials and finishes with a design that works, foil can hold up through bottling, chilling, and everything in between.

Not sure which type of foil or finish makes the most sense for your bottles? Contact us and we’ll walk you through it.

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Kiss Cut vs Die Cut Labels: Understanding the Difference

If you’re looking for cutout labels for your product packaging, you may have come across two common types: kiss cut and die cut.

While both of these labels may look the same on the surface, they differ in a few ways, including the way they’re cut, how they’re applied, and the process of producing them.

Because of their distinctive shapes and designs, both types of labels can be used for packaging that requires a more intricate cutout design.

In this article we’ll explore kiss cut vs die cut labels by digging into their differences and similarities.

What Are Kiss Cut and Die Cut labels?

If you’re looking for a label that allows you to showcase an intricate design, these are generally the two cutting techniques that are available. Understanding them can help you get what you’re looking for.

Kiss Cut labels

Kiss cut labels are only cut through the vinyl layer while leaving their paper backing intact.

A diagram showing kiss cut vs. die-cut labels

These labels are printed on a vinyl sheet, then a cutting machine is used to cut through the vinyl paper while leaving the adhesive intact. A professional printer will adjust settings related to pressure, speed, and cutting depth. The result is a kiss cut sticker is easy to peel and apply on your desired surface.

Kiss cut labels are generally durable, and the intact backing helps protect the labels until they are ready to be used.

Die Cut labels

Unlike kiss cut labels, die cut labels are cut completely through both the vinyl layer and the backing material. This keeps the sticker in its exact shape without any extra material on the sides.

Die cut labels are created by printing the design on vinyl and using a die (a tool, often made from metal) to cut through the backing paper and vinyl. The outcome is a custom-shaped label without any excess material.

Specific Applications and Suitability

Kiss cut or die cut labels can be used to complement existing packaging or labeling, and other times the product label itself is a kiss cut or die cut shape.

Rum bottle with custom label

Food and Beverage Products

From craft beers to specialty foods, these labels can complement existing packaging design or become the focal point of the product itself. Here are some examples:

Standard cutout product labels including branding, product name, ingredients, nutritional information, and more
Custom-shaped labels that match the shape of the product or the shape of the label design itself, providing a unique and eye-catching appearance
Product identification labels for different flavors or batches, making it easy for consumers to distinguish between choices
Promotional labels for temporary promotions, limited-time flavors, or part of a promotional marketing campaign
Decorative designs for limited-edition products and seasonal themes like holidays

soap with custom labels

Health and Beauty Products

For health and beauty products, kiss cut or die cut labels can help with unique product packaging shapes, but also help fit additional design or informational elements when space is precious. Here are some examples:

Labels with product information including ingredients, branding, and product name
Uniquely shaped labels and labels for products like perfumes, serums, and other specialty healthy and beauty products
Product differentiation labels to showcase different scents, colors, or formulations of products
Decorative elements on a sticker or label, including metallic foil or embossed elements, to enhance the visual appeal of the existing packaging

Home goods product labels

Home Goods

Looking for cutout labels or labels for a home goods product? In that case, consider kiss cut or die cut labels for:

Uniquely shaped labels for non-standard packaging for products like decorative items, candles, cleaning supplies, and more
Production differentiation labels to showcase different scents, colors, or features of similar products
Feature or callout labels for everything from a “new and improved” formula to competitor claims like “twice the cleaning power”
Safety warnings to display precautions and ensure the safe use of products

Differences Between Kiss Cut and Die Cut labels

Here are some common differences between kiss cut and die cut labels:

Cutting Method

As you now know, kiss cut labels only have their top vinyl layer cut while leaving the paper backing untouched. On the other hand, die cut labels are cut completely through the paper backing.

Size And Amount

Kiss cut labels are available in the form of label sheets and single pieces. Meanwhile, the sizes of die cut labels may vary according to the design.

Shape Option

The shape of both labels or labels depends on your design. Kiss cut labels may have some practical limitations once you get into highly complex designs. Likewise, the cost die cut labels may increase as the complexity of the shape increases.

Production Speed

Kiss cut labels are produced faster due to the fact that the process doesn’t involve cutting the backing paper. Meanwhile, die cut labels take slightly longer to produce as the sheet is cut into precise custom shapes.

Waterproof Qualities

Since both labels can be made with vinyl, they can accommodate environments that will encounter some humidity or moisture.

Application

Kiss cut labels are convenient to peel with an easy backing paper. Die cut labels must be individually peeled off their own backing piece, but the precise cut ensures that the edges are clean, making them easy to peel without tearing.

Durability and Quality

The extra backing helps give kiss cut labels added durability before application. The durability of both of these labels will be similar and will depend more so on the materials used.

Surface Support

Both types can adhere well to flat and slightly curved surfaces, but die cut labels may face challenges on highly textured or irregular surfaces due to their precise shapes.

What Material Is Used for Kiss Cut and Die Cut labels?

Luckily, with either cutout type, you can get your labels made using a wide variety of materials. Vinyl, paper, and polyester are common materials used for both kiss cut and die cut labels.

Additionally, you can opt for eco-friendly options if you solely care for the environment. For instance:

Consider using recycled paper for your label or sticker material
Biodegradable vinyl is also a good option as it breaks down on its own with time
Labels can also be made using plant-based materials like cornstarch and bamboo

That said, you should be aware of certain limitations with eco-friendly materials. For instance, they are much more costly than common materials. They also may have limited durability and their performance may also not be as good as traditional materials.

Die-cut labels printing

Pros and Cons of Kiss Cut and Die Cut labels

To help you decide, here’s a list of pros and cons for each option:

Kiss Cut Labels: Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
With backing paper, these labels are well-protected and of high quality. You can peel them off easily, which increases their ease of use. They are flexible and can be used on several smooth surfaces.	These labels may get frayed edges with time. Some options may not be suitable for prolonged sun exposure.

Die Cut Labels: Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
The customized shapes of die cut labels make them attractive and clean. They can be used in several ways, such as for brand promotions and labels. Most labels last long, depending on the material used.	The limited backing support may ruin these labels easily. The waste of material during cutting isn’t a good approach.

Application and Removal of These Labels

Both kiss cut and die cut labels can be made with permanent or removable adhesives.

Removable adhesives are temporary adhesives that remove labels without leaving any residue on the surface. They are perfect for temporary or promotional labels.

On the other hand, a permanent adhesive provides a solid bond that helps your sticker stay adhered to the surface for a long time. This type of adhesive best suits product label labels or permanent branding.

Design Considerations for Kiss Cut and Die Cut labels

Whether you opt for kiss cut or die cut labels or labels, here are a few design best practices to consider:

Kiss Cut Labels

Define an outline in the sticker design to ensure accuracy during the cutting and printing stages
Indicate a safe zone within the outline with important design elements to prevent them from getting cut out
Create a border around the outline to ensure neatness

Die Cut labels

Create a bleed area that extends beyond the die cut outline to avoid any white edges from showing
Add radius to shapes with sharp corners as it saves sticker corners from tearing during peeling
Maintain a safe zone with all the crucial design elements to prevent them from getting cut out

Next Steps

You can learn more about all of the finishing options that Blue Label offers for product labels. No matter your product or intricacy of your artwork, we can help you identify the right cutting process, materials, and finishes and for your label’s exact shape.

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How To Prevent Labels from Peeling in the Refrigerator

No brand wants a great looking product only for the label to peel off in the customers’ fridge. Fortunately, with the right materials, adhesives, and preparation, you can keep your product’s labels firmly in place even in chilled environments.

Why Labels Peel in Refrigerated Conditions

Let’s start with the usual suspects behind label peeling in the cold. The culprits usually include:

Moisture and condensation
Improper adhesive or material selection
Poor surface preparation
Temperature fluctuations

Below we take a closer look at how each of these factors can cause problems, and how to make the right decisions to avoid issues down the line.

Choose the Right Label Material

Your label material makes a huge difference in refrigeration performance. Consider these materials:

Welded Paper Stock: Combines the tactile appeal of paper with a BOPP film core for moisture protection and excellent opacity. These labels resist degrading in ice bucket immersion and condensation while still allowing for embellishments like embossing, foil, or die cuts. Welded paper stock is ideal when you want a premium look that also performs under chilled conditions.
BOPP (Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene) and MDO (Polypropylene): Durable, moisture-resistant, and ideal for beverages, dairy, sauces and more.
Polyester (PET): Strong and moisture-resistant, commonly used for refrigerated medicines and supplements, specialty foods, and more.
Vinyl (PVC): Flexible and sticks better to curved surfaces like squeeze bottles (MDO works great for curved surfaces and squeeze bottles as well).

For most plastic or glass containers, we recommend using water-resistant films or welded paper stocks, which give you the durability to withstand chilled environments and moisture.

Select Adhesives That Stick

Most standard adhesives struggle in cold, damp environments where moisture and condensation interfere with adhesion. Instead, consider freezer-grade options:

Acrylic Adhesives: Excellent moisture resistance and long-term adhesion.
Freezer-Grade: Immediate strong adhesion at lower temperatures.

Prep Your Surfaces Properly

We’ve seen it plenty of times: labels that just won’t stick because the container wasn’t clean or dry. Here’s how to avoid that:

Always clean and dry your containers before applying labels.
Apply labels at room temperature whenever possible. Cold surfaces mean weaker initial bonds.
Allow enough dwell time (ideally 24 hours) before refrigerating to make sure your adhesive fully sets.

Add Extra Protection with Finishing

A protective layer goes a long way toward preventing peeling, smudging, or abrasion:

Lamination: Adds a water-resistant barrier and increases durability.
UV Coating: Protects against moisture and keeps labels looking vibrant.

While finishes like lamination and UV coating can add a small cost, they often prevent smudging or damage that could otherwise make your product look worn before it even reaches the shelf.

Test Before You Scale

It can be important to test your labels in real-world refrigerated conditions, especially before committing to a large full run. This helps you feel confident that they’ll perform the way you need them to. Here’s how (don’t worry, we can help with this):

Conduct freeze-thaw cycles and check for peeling.
Simulate actual handling and transport conditions.
Evaluate adhesion after at least 24 hours in your target refrigerated environment.

Quick Checklist to Avoid Label Peeling

Choose the right material. We recommend EverOpaque, BOPP, PET, vinyl, or wet-strength paper.
Select acrylic or freezer grade adhesives that will perform at the correct temperature.
Clean and dry all containers before application.
Apply labels at room temperature.
Allow 24-hour dwell time before refrigerating.
Consider protective finishing like lamination or UV coating.
Always test labels thoroughly in real conditions.

Prevent Your Label from Peeling in Refrigerated Environments

Label peeling in cold storage doesn’t have to be a problem. With the right materials, adhesives, preparation, and testing, your labels can withstand even the chilliest conditions. Not sure where to start? Contact us and we’ll help you select labels that stick, no matter the temperature.

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Can Vinyl Labels Be Used on Plastic Bottles?

If you’re trying to figure out whether vinyl labels will actually work on your plastic bottles, here’s what you need to know.

What You Should Consider

Plastic bottle shapes and sizes

Bottle Surface & Shape

Vinyl labels are thicker, more stiff, and perform best on flat or mildly curved surfaces.

If you’re labeling PET beverage bottles (the clear, rigid plastic used for things like water and soda), HDPE bottles (the sturdy plastic often used for personal care and household products), or LDPE squeeze tubes (the softer, more flexible plastic you’ll see in things like lotions or gels), vinyl labels may wrinkle or lift.

BOPP labels, on the other hand, are thinner and conform easily to cylindrical containers. And if your container is squeezable, a material like MDO is likely the way to go.

Questions to ask yourself:

Is your bottle curved, textured, or flexible?
Does the label wrap around tapered shoulders or full body?

Cleaning products in plastic bottles

Product Exposure

Vinyl holds up really well against water, oils, sunlight, scratches, and even chemicals. It’s often used in harsh wash-down or outdoor environments.

BOPP also performs great in most everyday settings, especially for beverages, cosmetics, and products stored at room temperature or in the fridge. Vinyl might be the better choice for products like outdoor-use cleaning sprays, automotive fluids, or industrial degreasers that face frequent handling, UV exposure, or contact with harsh chemicals that could break down BOPP over time.

Consider:

Will the product be susceptible to heavy scuffing?
Is there exposure to oil, chemicals, friction, or sunlight?
Will the bottle go through sanitizing or heavy handling?

If you expect any of those, vinyl might be the way to go.

Print Quality & Visual Design

Vinyl has a slightly textured surface, so fine detail, transparent graphics, or sharp text can sometimes look a little soft.

BOPP, for comparison’s sake, has a smoother surface that gives you sharper print quality and better compatibility with high-end finishes. Finishes like spot UV (that glossy highlight on logos or text) or cold foil just stand out better on BOPP.

If your design includes:

Clear “no-label” look
Foil accents, embossing, fine typography
Spot UV or matte/gloss laminate

Then BOPP or MDO is likely a stronger fit.

Compliance & Recycling

Vinyl (PVC) adhesives often carry higher VOCs (volatile organic compounds), which can affect indoor air quality during label application and may not align with clean label initiatives. The film itself isn’t accepted in most curbside recycling streams.

On the other hand, BOPP is compatible with APR (Association of Plastic Recyclers) guidelines, meaning it can stay on PET or HDPE containers during recycling without causing problems. It also typically uses lower-VOC adhesives.

Ask yourself:

Will these bottles enter consumer recycling systems?
Do you need food-safe or skin-contact approved materials?
Are VOC emissions a concern?

Quick Decision Checklist

Factor	Vinyl	BOPP
Bottle Shape	Best on flat or moderate curves	Fits cylindrical bottles
Moisture & Chemical Exposure	Excellent	Good for most consumer products
Print Quality & Finish	Good saturation; less sharp detail	High clarity, supports embellishments
Regulatory & Food Compliance	Acceptable when certified	Widely accepted for food & cosmetics
Recyclability & VOCs	Poor (not recyclable, higher VOCs)	Recyclable, lower VOC footprint
Cost & Efficiency	Higher cost, heavier material	Lower cost, easier application

Why We Usually Recommend BOPP

We’ve labeled thousands of consumer products, so we’ve seen what sticks and what doesn’t. Unless your product lives in a rugged or industrial space, BOPP consistently gives you:

Clean applications on bottles
Superior print results
Recyclability
Strong performance under moisture and shelf life demands

Bottom Line

Yes, you can use vinyl labels on plastic bottles. But unless your application demands extreme durability (like marine, industrial, wash-down environments) we recommend BOPP for most consumer and retail products.

Not sure which material makes sense for your bottles? Contact us and we’ll walk you through it.

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How To Prevent Labels from Smudging in Humid Environments

If your product lives in or passes through humid environments like showers or even humid shipping trucks, the label can be susceptible to smudging or peeling. Fortunately, label smudging is preventable with the right combination of materials, adhesives, and protective techniques.

Here’s how to keep your labels looking clear, even in humid conditions.

Start with the Right Label Material

In humid conditions, standard uncoated paper labels can be problematic, especially without the right finishing techniques. Some wet-strength papers can hold up okay in light moisture, but they’re usually not built for high-humidity environments.

Synthetic materials are generally a safer bet:

BOPP and MDO (Polypropylene): Both are great for products like refrigerated beverages, personal care items, or household cleaners that deal with condensation; however, MDO may be the better option depending on the container.
PET (Polyester): Handles moisture and temperature swings; ideal for outdoor goods, frozen items, or cosmetic packaging.
Vinyl: Flexible and reliable on curved surfaces like lotion bottles or spray containers.
Welded Paper Stocks: If paper is required, wet strength or welded options will help lock out some of the humidity.

Each of these resists water absorption and ink bleed better than paper.

Products with labels in a humid shower environment

Match Adhesives to Humidity Conditions

The best label material won’t matter if the adhesive can’t hold up. High humidity can break down weaker adhesives, so it’s worth being picky here:

Permanent acrylic adhesives: A dependable choice for products stored in coolers, steamy bathrooms, or humid warehouses.
Freezer-grade adhesives: Designed to stick to containers that are cold, wet, or even frosty right off the line.

Protect Your Labels with Finishes and Coatings

Even durable label materials can use some extra protection. Protective finishes help lock in the ink and guard against water, scratches, and general wear and tear.

Lamination: A clear film that seals the label surface to protect it from water, oils, and friction.
UV or coatings: Lighter than lamination but still helpful for moisture resistance and visual appeal.

For anything going in a fridge, freezer, or damp environment, lamination is usually the safest bet.

Surface Preparation and Storage

A few good habits to avoid label failure from improper application or storage:

Store labels right: Keep unused rolls in a climate-controlled space (think 50% humidity and around 70°F). That’s the storage sweet spot that we recommend.
Apply to dry surfaces: Moisture or condensation can mess with adhesion and cause bubbling or peeling.

Labeling cold containers? Try warming them slightly or applying labels before cooling, if your process allows.

Test Before You Commit

Before you commit to a full label run, test how your labels actually hold up in humid environments. You don’t want surprises after you’ve labeled a few thousand units.

Here’s what we recommend:

Condensation tests: Apply labels to chilled containers, bring them to room temp, and watch for smudging or peeling.
Wipe tests: Run a damp cloth over the surface to see how the ink holds up.
Try a sample pack: Test a few options on your real packaging before you commit.

At Blue Label, we put our labels through rigorous testing in these real-life environments to make sure they stand up and stay on.

Quick Label Durability Checklist

Choose water-resistant materials matched to your product’s environment (don’t worry, we can help).
Use moisture-resistant adhesives.
Apply protective finishes like lamination or UV coatings.
Prepare surfaces properly and store labels in climate-controlled conditions.

Avoiding Label Smudging in Humid Environments

If you want your labels to survive humidity without smudging or peeling, you’ll need the right combo of substrate (material), adhesive, finish, and good application practices. Need help finding the right solution? Contact us and we’ll show you what works.