FAQ: Label Usage & Care

For the best results, apply labels to clean, smooth and dry surfaces. The strongest adhesion is usually on plastic, glass, metal, painted surfaces (including painted wood), cardboard and paper, and glazed ceramics. Labels can also stick to rougher surfaces like unglazed ceramics, unpainted wood and concrete, but the hold may be weaker. 

If an air bubble has been caught underneath, there are two methods that can work to resolve it:

1. Immediately peel off and re-apply. The success of this may vary, as you could stretch the plastic or tear the paper. However, you can reduce the risk of this by sticking it down lightly and checking for air bubbles before you do the final, firmer smoothing over to maximise the adhesive bond.
2. Make a hole. The bubble forms because air can’t escape, so if you prick the bubble with a thin needle, you may be able to squeeze out the air so the label sticks flat. Providing it’s a very small hole, it’s usually not noticeable afterwards.

Thanks to their rip-resistant design, printed labels made out of form of plastic can usually be peeled off in one go by lifting an edge and pulling gently. If any sticky residue remains:

1. Apply a glue residue remover, isopropyl alcohol or acetone, but only if safe for your surface.
2. Let it soak for about 30 seconds to loosen the adhesive.
3. Use a gentle sponge or plastic scraper to lift off the residue without scratching the surface.
4. Repeat applying remover and scraping until all glue is gone.

If you don’t have residue removers handy, then vinegar, hand sanitiser (with alcohol) or WD-40 can work too.

Removing paper labels can be tricky, as they often won’t peel off in one piece.

• Peel Off As Much As Possible - Try lifting the label in sections. If the adhesive isn’t too strong, you might be able to remove it with a few attempts.
• Soak the Label - Apply a glue residue remover, isopropyl alcohol or acetone if safe for your surface. Unlike plastic-based labels, these liquids can soak through the paper to reach the adhesive underneath.
• Gently Rub the Label - After applying the solution, rub the area lightly to help it soak in and loosen the glue.
• Scrape Off Residue - Use a sponge or scraper to carefully lift the paper and adhesive together without damaging the surface.
• Repeat as Needed - Keep applying remover and scraping until all residue is gone. Finish with a clean cloth to buff the area.

If removing the paper before the adhesive seems easier, try soaking the label in warm water. Paper will absorb the water and start to break down, making it easier to scrape off.

To keep your labels in top condition - ensuring they last longer and stick best when the time comes - we recommend storing them in a cool, dry environment - ideally between 10°C and 25°C. When storing, try to avoid:

• Moisture - Exposure to humidity can cause paper to warp and affect the adhesive.
• Heat and Direct Sunlight – Long term these can cause fading, curling and weaken the adhesive’s grip.

Ideally keep your custom labels in their original packaging and lay sheets flat to prevent curling. Also, store them somewhere safe to avoid dents or creases, as damaged areas are difficult to fix. While our products are designed to withstand tougher conditions in use, proper storage will maximise their lifespan, especially if they’ll be kept for a long time before applying.

Our labels use pressure-sensitive acrylic adhesive, which bonds firmly on contact. However, it continues to cure over time, reaching maximum strength around 24 hours later. For best results, avoid heavy handling or exposure to moisture during this curing period.

To help your labels last as long as possible, avoid:

• Extreme temperatures
• Long-term direct sunlight, as UV exposure can fade designs
• Heavy friction or scuffing
• Corrosive substances or liquids
• Solvents like isopropyl alcohol, acetone or glue removers
• For paper labels, minimise any contact with moisture or contaminants

Our products are built to last, but avoiding these factors will help extend their life even further.

Regardless of the type of label or sticker, the key steps for a smooth, lasting application are fairly consistent:

1. Make sure the surface is clean, dry and free from dust, oils or any other residues. Ensure your hands are clean too when handling the labels.
2. If possible, bring your labels to room temperature first. This makes them more flexible and sticky.
3. Carefully peel the label from its backing, trying not to touch the adhesive side too much. In practice this is nearly impossible to avoid, so just pick it up by the edges as best you can to minimise contact.

Next, position the label where you want it, viewing it from above to check it’s straight. Then:

• Gently press down the centre of the label to secure it first.
• Smooth it outward toward the edges, pushing out any air bubbles as you go.
• Apply firm pressure around the edges to ensure a strong bond.

If pressing the centre first isn’t possible, you can start by sticking one edge down and slowly smoothing across, but make sure the label is held taut when you apply the first edge, then smooth it carefully so you don’t capture any air pockets underneath.