What is a Removable Sticker? Features, Uses, and Important Considerations
Removable labels can be easily peeled off even after being applied once, making them useful in a variety of situations. With a range of adhesives and materials available, you can choose the optimal option to maximize the label's functionality according to its intended use.
This article introduces the features of removable labels, the types of adhesives and materials available, and important considerations when producing them. In the latter section, we also showcase examples of removable label products, so if you are considering creating your own, please refer to the information provided.
As a printing company specializing in labels and seals, we offer a wide range of labels. If you have any concerns regarding removable labels, please feel free to contact us using the link below.
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What are Removable Labels? Features and Applications
Removable labels are labels that can be easily removed even after being applied once. It is a common misconception that they can be repeatedly applied and removed. In fact, the adhesive strength decreases with each removal, and manufacturers do not recommend repeated use.
In other words, please note that removable labels are designed to be removed only once.
One of the key features is that no residue is left on the substrate when the label is removed. Therefore, they are ideal for labels or stickers intended for temporary use.
Features of Removable Labels
Unlike standard adhesive labels, removable labels use a special removable adhesive.
The main types of labels are as follows:
| Removable | - Labels designed to be removed after a set period - Easy to remove even after time has passed, leaving little adhesive residue - Can be removed cleanly but cannot be reapplied - Removal is limited to one time |
| Permanent Adhesive | - Labels intended for permanent application - Possess strong adhesive strength since removal is not required |
| Repositionable | - Leaves little adhesive residue upon removal - Can be reapplied - Commonly used for sticky notes (Post-it notes) and similar applications |
Because removable labels can be taken off without damaging the substrate, they are also utilized for temporary displays. Next, let’s explore the specific applications of removable labels.
Applications of Removable Labels
Removable labels are used in a variety of situations, with a wide range of applications.
Specifically, they are used in the following ways:
| Type | Description |
| Promotional Sticker | - Stickers used for temporary events or campaigns - Ideal for promoting products, services, and event announcements |
| Price Tag | - Convenient for situations where price updates are needed during price changes or sales - Allows for clean display updates |
| Organizational Label | - Labels used for organizing and storage in homes or offices - Can be applied to files or boxes and removed cleanly even when contents change |
| Promotional Sticker for Children | - Even if applied by young children on furniture, they can be removed easily and cleanly |
| Car Windshield Label | - Ideal for displaying information such as parking permits on car windshields |
| Glass Bottle Product Label | - Useful for recycling when labels are removed - Environmentally friendly as labels can be removed cleanly when reusing glass bottles |
Types of Removable Adhesives
There are various types of adhesives for removable labels. Choosing the right removable adhesive is crucial, taking into account the substrate, the environment after application, and the desired duration.
Below is an overview of the main types of removable adhesives, their characteristics, and applications.
| Type | Characteristics | Applications |
| Repositionable | - Adhesive that can be repositioned multiple times - Adheres well and can be removed cleanly - Can be reapplied | - Sticky notes - Reclosable security seals - Management labels |
| Removable | - Adhesive designed for clean removal - Not suitable for reapplication - Available in both strong and weak adhesive options | - Labels for protecting personal information - Labels for returnable bottles - Labels for easily sorted packaging |
| Low Adhesion | - The weakest adhesive strength - Suitable for glass surfaces | - POP displays for short-term use - Protective films |
※ The names of the adhesives may vary depending on the manufacturer.
For those interested in learning more about the appropriate adhesive types for specific products or usage scenarios, please refer to the article below for a detailed explanation.
Label Adhesive | Revealing the Ideal Adhesive Types for Your Company!
Materials for Removable Labels
Removable labels mainly use paper and film materials. Paper is suitable for indoor use, while film materials are often used outdoors due to their waterproof properties.
Paper Materials
First, here are the paper materials used in removable labels and their characteristics.
| Material | Characteristics |
| Premium Paper | - A material used for a wide range of applications - Rich in color variations - Smooth texture |
| Art Coated Paper | - Premium paper coated with white pigment on the surface - Glossy and luxurious - Sleek texture |
| Mirror Coated Paper | - Widely used for labels - Glossy with a slick texture |
| Matte Coated Paper | - Non-reflective, making text easy to read - Low gloss for a subdued look - Smooth texture |
Film Materials
Next, we introduce the film materials.
| Material | Characteristics |
| Yupo | - A synthetic paper made from polypropylene - Suitable for a wide range of temperatures - Matte and smooth texture |
| Transparent Film | - A transparent PET material - Soft film |
| Silver Film | - Used for appliances and gas meter confirmation labels, among others - Waterproof |
| White PVC | - Available in white matte and white gloss finishes - Excellent for application on curved surfaces due to its softness - Suitable for outdoor use with waterproof and durable properties - Slick texture |
Three Advantages of Removable Labels
Removable labels offer the following three advantages:
- Even after being applied, they can be removed cleanly
- Can be used as markers
- Can also be used for concealment
Advantage 1: Can be removed cleanly even after application
The key feature of removable labels is that they can be removed cleanly even after being applied. Since they leave no adhesive residue, they are used in many applications.
For example, if a novelty sticker is accidentally placed in the wrong spot or applied as a prank, a removable label can be easily removed, thus avoiding unnecessary issues.
Advantage 2: Can be used as markers
Due to their easy removability, removable labels can be effectively used as markers in various situations. Here are some specific examples:
| Situation | Description |
| Document or Book Bookmark | - Ideal for marking documents or books like a sticky note - Can mark important sections while reading - Does not damage the paper after use |
| Warning | - Can be used for notices such as “Fragile” or “This Side Up” - Does not damage the substrate after removal - Allows for reuse of materials like cardboard |
| Inspection Mark | - Can be used as vehicle inspection labels - Enables verification of inspection expiration dates without damaging the windshield |
Due to their non-damaging nature, removable labels can be widely used as markers.
Advantage 3: Can also be used for concealment
Another advantage of removable labels is that they can also serve as concealment labels, not just for easy removal.
By using removable labels on postcards containing personal information sent by banks or local governments, personal data can be protected easily and effectively. Using them as concealment labels helps safeguard important information and ensures privacy.
Concealment labels are also beneficial for businesses and organizations. They are effective when used to obscure documents containing customer data or other highly confidential information.
Three Important Considerations for Removable Labels
There are also some important considerations with removable labels. The main points are the following three:
- Choose the appropriate material and adhesive by understanding the substrate, environment, and intended duration
- Not designed for permanent adhesion
- Not reusable
Consideration 1: Choose the appropriate material and adhesive by understanding the substrate, environment, and intended duration
As mentioned earlier, removable labels come with various types of adhesives and materials. Therefore, it is important to choose the right material based on the type of substrate, the environment, and the expected duration of use.
For example, when used outdoors, waterproof film is the ideal choice. Selecting the optimal material is effective in preventing damage from rain or sunlight.
The choice of adhesive is similar. For indoor or short-term use, an adhesive that can be easily removed is suitable, whereas for long-term use or in demanding environments, a stronger, more durable adhesive is necessary. Selecting materials that match the application maximizes the functionality of the label.
Consideration 2: Not designed for permanent adhesion
The hallmark of removable labels is their ability to be removed cleanly, and thus they do not possess the strong adhesive power of permanent adhesives. They are designed for easy removal, which means their adhesive strength is weaker compared to standard labels.
Therefore, removable labels are best suited for temporary applications. They are ideal for limited-time events, sales announcements, or temporary labeling. When choosing a removable label, it is important to understand its characteristics and select one that fits the intended purpose.
Consideration 3: Not reusable
Although removable labels may be mistakenly thought to be reusable because they can be removed cleanly, in reality, their adhesive strength decreases, making repeated use impossible.
The term "removable" implies that the label can be cleanly removed once, not that it can be repeatedly applied. When producing removable labels, please ensure you understand their features and use them according to their intended purpose.
For Creating Removable Labels, Consulting a Label Printing Company is Recommended
Removable labels are used across various industries due to their easy removability. However, if the chosen removable label is not compatible with the substrate or material, it may peel off within a few weeks.
To prevent such issues, it is important to consult with a label printing company regarding the following specific points:
- For use on cosmetic bottles
- For use as stickers
- For use on refrigerated foods
- For use on curved substrates
- For substrates with a rough surface
- For outdoor use
As a printing company specializing in labels and seals, we also produce removable labels. If you have any concerns regarding removable labels, please feel free to contact us via the "Contact Us" page.
Same-Day Service is available. Please give it a try.
Examples of Removable Label Products
Finally, we present the following three examples of removable label products produced by our company.
- Attention Seal
- Two-Layer Seal
- Personal Information Protection Seal
If you are considering creating removable labels, please refer to these examples for inspiration.
Product Example 1: Attention Seal
Attention seals are an effective tool for promoting products on packaging and attracting end-users.
By leaving an adhesive portion at the bottom on the back side, you can create a label design that appears to pop out from the product. This design makes it stand out on shelves and effectively captures consumer attention.
Attention seals can also be used for special campaigns or new product announcements. Recommended materials include silver film, Yupo, and art paper.
For more detailed information about attention seals, please refer to the following article.
Product Example 2: Two-Layer Seal
A two-layer seal is a label that consists of two layers.
Two-layer seals are used in campaigns and lottery-style labels, where the lower layer can be printed with sequential lottery numbers or campaign QR codes. They not only conceal information but also provide the fun of peeling them to reveal hidden content.
For more information on two-layer seals, please refer to the article below.
Product Example 3: Personal Information Protection Seal
Personal Information Protection Seals are used to safeguard personal data printed on items such as postcards.
Since the label cannot be reapplied once it has been removed, if it becomes exposed before reaching the intended recipient, it serves as an indicator of tampering.
Additionally, because the adhesive side of personal information protection seals is black, underlying text does not show through. They are frequently used by companies for reply postcards in campaigns, reducing the risk of personal information leakage and ensuring consumer privacy.
For more information on personal information seals, please refer to the following article.
Product List | Personal Information Protection Seal
Let's Create Removable Labels That Suit Your Intended Use
Removable labels are designed to be easily and cleanly removed even after one application, making them ideal for temporary labels or stickers. With various types of removable adhesives available, selecting the right adhesive and material based on the substrate, post-application environment, and desired duration is crucial.
At our company, we produce a wide range of removable labels tailored to your specific needs, as illustrated by the product examples in this article. We offer thorough support from adhesive and material selection to final product completion, so please feel free to contact us.
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