How to make waterproof labels: Processing Methods, Ordering Procedures, and Examples

Waterproof labels can be safely used around water and outdoors. However, to create labels that are well-suited to your specific needs, it is crucial to select the best materials and adhesives from the many options available.

Waterproofing typically involves applying a clear film known as "laminate" to the surface or using "film material."

This article provides detailed information on the basics of waterproof labels, how to order them, and important considerations when creating them. If you are considering making water-resistant labels, please refer to this guide.

Our company specializes in printing labels using various processing techniques. If you are looking for labels that are not only water-resistant but also high-quality in detail and presentation, please feel free to contact us.

Basics of Waterproof Labels

In this section, we will explain the basics of waterproof labels in detail. Let's take a closer look at each aspect.

Basics 1: Characteristics of Waterproof Labels

Waterproof processing is applied to labels to ensure they do not tear or swell when exposed to water. The main usage scenarios include:

Waterproof labels are not only water-resistant but also highly durable.

Commercially available labels with low water resistance can deteriorate with even slight moisture. It is recommended to choose waterproof labels for use in areas where they may come into contact with water, such as around water sources and outdoors.

Basics 2: Materials Suitable for Waterproof Labels

When creating waterproof labels, the process typically involves applying a laminate or using film material. For printed labels, a variety of water-resistant materials are available. (Paper materials are not recommended.)

How to Order Waterproof Labels

Here is the process for ordering waterproof labels with laminate. Please refer to this guide if you are considering creating them.

Step 1: Clarify the purpose and usage scenarios, then consult with the label printing company for the best options.

It is helpful to clarify the usage scenarios and purpose before consulting with the label printing company. Since waterproof labels vary in suitability depending on the material and adhesive strength, a production plan tailored to the intended use is essential.

For items exposed to sunlight and outdoor weather, it is important to choose highly water-resistant and durable materials such as "PVC" or "PET." Having a clear idea of the purpose and usage scenarios will make it easier for the printing company to recommend the best material. There are many options available.

Step 2: Decide on the Material and Adhesive Type to Use

Next, decide on the material and adhesive type for the labels. There are various adhesive options in addition to the materials for the labels. These include strong adhesives that do not peel off easily and removable adhesives that can be cleanly removed.

When choosing materials, considering compatibility with the surface where the label will be applied and maintaining overall balance will enhance the quality of the final product. If you have any questions about technical details, feel free to consult with the label printing company.

Step 3: Get a Quote and Place an Order

Once you have decided on the material, adhesive type, dimensions, quantity, and rough design, provide the required quantity to get a quote.

It’s important to confirm details such as the delivery method and delivery time at this stage. Once you are satisfied with the cost and turnaround time, you can place the order and wait for the completion. Our standard delivery time is 5 business days (excluding weekends and holidays).

3 Points to Note When Making Waterproof Labels

There are three important points to consider when making waterproof labels. Let's take a closer look at each one.

Applying varnish or laminate to paper materials can sometimes serve as a substitute for waterproof processing. While it will provide some water resistance, it will not make the material completely waterproof. Depending on the usage scenario, the level of water resistance may not be sufficient, so caution is required.

Please refer to the table below for the water resistance levels of different materials and processing methods.

Material/Processing	Water Resistance
Paper material	Weak
Paper material + varnish	Somewhat weak
Paper material + laminate processing	Moderate (paper may absorb water)
Film material	High
Film material + laminate processing	High (water resistance + durability)

The highest level of water resistance is achieved when film material is laminated. However, such high water resistance may not be necessary for all usage scenarios. For example, laminated paper material may be sufficient for labels on condiments.

If you're unsure, consult with a label printing company for the best recommendations. While paper is not entirely unsuitable, some customers choose paper material to stay within a limited budget.

Point 2: Emphasize Durability and Color for Outdoor Use

When using labels outdoors, it is important to consider both durability and water resistance. Outdoor conditions such as sunlight, rain, and exposure to impacts from objects place additional stress on labels, causing them to deteriorate faster than indoor labels.

For outdoor use, choose highly durable materials like "PVC (with solvent-based strong adhesive)" or "PET material (with solvent-based strong adhesive)" to ensure the labels are robust and long-lasting. Additionally, it's crucial to consider not only the durability of the material but also the printing color. For instance, "red" fades the fastest under ultraviolet light, so silk printing, which applies a thick layer of ink, is recommended. (This is why you often see election posters where the red color has faded.)

For more details on the characteristics of silk printing, please refer to the following article:

What Is Silk Screen Printing? Differences from Offset printing

Point 3: Choose Adhesives Resistant to Low Temperatures for Refrigerated and Frozen Products

When creating labels for refrigerated and frozen products, choose adhesives that remain strong at low temperatures and materials with excellent water resistance. Regular adhesives lose their stickiness at low temperatures, making them unsuitable for refrigerated and frozen products (similar to how gum hardens when frozen).

Since condensation can easily form in storage environments, it’s also important to select materials with strong water resistance. Additionally, make sure to apply labels only when the items are completely dry, as labels will peel off if applied to surfaces with condensation.

Here is an example of a refrigerated label manufactured by our company.

We combined foil stamping with a film material called YUPO to create a premium look. Select the best materials and adhesives to ensure the labels remain effective until consumers finish using the product.

For more detailed information on food labels, including key considerations and checklists, please refer to the following article:

How to Make Food Labels: A Checklist of Required Information and Points to Consider

3 Reasons to Use a Professional Service for Waterproof Labels

We recommend using a professional service when creating waterproof labels. Here are three reasons why:

Reason 1: They Can Provide Optimal Suggestions Based on Your Needs

One of the advantages of using a professional label printing company is that they can offer optimal suggestions based on your specific usage scenarios and goals. Ordering from online printing services can be surprisingly challenging, and they may not provide the necessary support.

A label printing company can provide customized options to suit your needs, along with sample prototypes for a fee. If you want comprehensive support and collaboration in creating your product, consider working with a professional printing company.

Reason 2: They Save You the Hassle of Processing and Creating the Labels

Some people laminate labels themselves to make them waterproof, but this is not recommended, especially for large quantities. Outsourcing to a professional printing company is more cost-effective than doing it yourself.

To avoid disrupting your regular business activities, consult a professional printing company when you need waterproof labels.

Reason 3: They Offer High Fidelity in Reproducing Your Design

One of the strengths of labels produced by a professional label printing company is their high fidelity in reproducing your design.

While low-cost services may offer large orders at lower prices, the quality can vary, and design reproduction may suffer. This is often due to differences in printing methods and a lack of proper consultation.

With a professional printing company, you can have detailed discussions before receiving a quote, ensuring the product meets your expectations. If you want to focus on the quality of every detail, consider using a professional label printing company.

Our company is dedicated to creating labels with careful attention to both design and functionality.We accept inquiries and quotes 24 hours a day, so feel free to contact us through the "Contact Us" page.

Examples of Waterproof Stickers

Here are some examples of labels with waterproof processing.

Example 1: Ethical Beauty Inc.｜Shampoo Bottle Labels

Here is an example of a shampoo bottle label created by our company.

For bathroom use, we chose YUPO 80µ film material (with solvent-based strong adhesive) for its high water resistance and durability. There is no concern about the label peeling off, even with continued use in wet areas.

YUPO is also the most cost-effective film and is popular for its premium matte texture.

Example 2: Shimizu Store｜Product Labels

Here are waterproof product labels we created for Shimizu Store.

We applied a matte laminate to the highly water-resistant YUPO 80μ film material (with solvent-based strong adhesive), giving it a smooth touch.

The matte laminate not only made it waterproof but also protected the ink from scratching off. While gloss laminate is also available, the customer requested a consistent matte finish to match the matte texture of the bottle itself.

Example 3: HITSUJI SUNRISE｜Potting Stickers

We create stickers using various processing techniques. This is a potting sticker, which is a thick sticker with a resin coating.

This potting sticker is made by printing the design on a white PET (solvent-based strong adhesive) material and then coating it with urethane resin. Potting stickers have water resistance and durability. Additionally, because they are used on refrigerated and frozen products, we use adhesives that do not freeze at low temperatures. These stickers are not only durable and water-resistant but also visually impressive.

Due to the cost and time required for potting, they typically cost 2-3 times more than regular stickers or labels. These unique and luxurious stickers are recommended for those who want to create one-of-a-kind labels.

Why You Should Order Waterproof Labels from a Professional Printing Company

Waterproof labels are used in various environments, such as outdoors and around water. When creating them, it’s important to consider durability and other factors based on the intended use and purpose.

By incorporating various processing techniques, you can create unique labels that not only resist water but also enhance the product's value. Focus on both functionality and design to maximize the appeal of your product.

At our company, we create a wide variety of waterproof labels tailored to the customer's image and product concept. We provide detailed support from material selection to product completion, so feel free to contact us.