Why Do Some Stickers Peel Off or Pop Up After Being Soaked in Water?
=== Why Do Stickers Peel Off or Pop Up After Being Soaked in Water? ===
Each type of sticker is designed for specific applications. When a sticker is used in conditions beyond its intended purpose—especially in environments involving water immersion or high humidity—it may lose adhesion and peel off.
The main causes are outlined below.
=== 1. Sticker Adhesive Type and Quality ===
Most general-purpose stickers use water-based adhesive.
This type of adhesive is widely used because it is safe, environmentally friendly, and suitable for normal labeling applications. However, it has limitations when exposed to water or high humidity for extended periods, such as soaking in water or ice boxes.
For applications that require water resistance, the following adhesive types are recommended:
Solvent-based adhesive
Hotmelt adhesive
These adhesives provide stronger bonding strength and perform significantly better in wet or humid environments.
=== 2. Face Stock Material ===
The face stock material plays a critical role in water resistance.
Paper-based stickers can absorb moisture, causing swelling, deformation, and weakening of adhesive performance, which leads to peeling.
For wet or humid applications, plastic-based face stocks are recommended, such as:
PP (Polypropylene)
PET
PVC
These materials do not absorb water, maintain dimensional stability, and are suitable for demanding environments.
=== 3. Application Surface Condition ===
The surface to which the sticker is applied must be clean and smooth.
If the surface is uneven or air gaps exist between the sticker and the substrate, water can penetrate underneath the label, reducing adhesive strength and causing delamination.
Before application, ensure that:
The surface is smooth
There is no dust, moisture, or oil
The sticker is applied firmly without air bubbles
=== How to Choose Stickers That Will Not Peel After Water Exposure ===
Use solvent-based or hotmelt adhesive
Choose PP, PET, or PVC face stock materials
Apply on clean, smooth surfaces
Inform your printer or supplier in advance if the label must withstand water or high humidity
=== Typical Applications Requiring Water-Resistant Stickers ===
Beverage bottles stored in ice boxes
Milk and dairy product bottles
Chilled or frozen food packaging
Cosmetic labels used in bathrooms
=== Frequently Asked Questions About Water-Resistant Stickers ===
Can paper stickers be coated to make them waterproof?
Coating can improve water resistance to some extent, but paper stickers are not suitable for long-term water immersion.
Does a strong adhesive always mean waterproof performance?
Not necessarily. Proper performance depends on the correct combination of adhesive type and face stock material.
=== Consult Experts Before Selecting Stickers ===
Choosing the right sticker for your application is crucial, especially for products exposed to water or high humidity. Selecting the wrong materials can lead to label failure and negatively impact your brand image.
Universal Tape Co., Ltd.
A trusted sticker material supplier for printing houses for over 25 years.
We are ready to provide professional recommendations to ensure you select the most suitable sticker materials for your application.
