We may not always be aware of them, but labels serve an important purpose. From ensuring our packages get to the right destination to helping us identify products, nearly every product we encounter has a label, and they are also essential in helping consumers recognize your brand.
At Ritter’s Printing & Packaging, we have been supporting our customers throughout the label printing process since 1988 and our relationship with our customers doesn’t end after they receive their labels. We want to make sure you get the most out of your labels and that’s why we have created this comprehensive guide on effective storage methods for adhesive labels.
Effective storage for adhesive labels
Properly storing your labels is critical. Some of the easiest and most effective storage methods to follow include:
1) Avoid extreme temperatures
To ensure the stability of the adhesive backing, it’s important to store your labels at the appropriate temperature. Extreme temperatures can cause the label adhesive to either melt or harden, rendering your labels useless. For optimal results, store your labels between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid storing labels in elevated areas where heat may rise and do not place them near open spaces where temperatures may fluctuate.
2) Avoid moisture
Regardless of the material or finish of your label, moisture poses a threat to its adhesive properties. Even waterproof labels can lose their stickiness in damp conditions. Paper labels, in particular, are susceptible to moisture damage, which can ruin their composition. To safeguard your labels, storing them in a dry area is critical. Avoid storing labels in areas where they may come into contact with chemicals or solvents, as these substances can also compromise the integrity of the label. By taking these precautions you can ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your labels.
3) Avoid dust
When you store labels in dusty areas, the particles act almost like sandpaper. Over time, the dust will wear down the adhesive backing. This is especially critical for labels that run on applicators or thermal printers. While the integrity of the labels is compromised, the dust on the labels can also wear down your machines.
4) Avoid UV light
Direct sunlight is one of the main causes of fading and discoloration of labels. Light exposure can also negatively impact the adhesive quality. To avoid these issues, labels should always be stored in opaque containers.
5) Avoid using old labels
Even the highest quality labels have an expiration date. Over time, the adhesive backing will naturally begin to deteriorate. Generally, you should avoid using labels that are over a year old. One of the best ways to avoid label wastage due to age is to practice FIFO (the first label you order should be the first label you use).
Label services in South Florida
Since 1988, Ritter’s Printing & Packaging has been the premier source for label services in South Florida. We offer a wide array of labels that can be customized for products and offer a variety of materials, embellishments, and personalization such as barcoding. The expert design team at Ritter’s Printing & Packaging works with you every step of the way to design custom labels for your brand.
While the labels we create at Ritter’s Printing & Packaging are of the highest quality, it is still critical to store them properly. By following our comprehensive guide, you can assure you get the most out of your labels. If you have any questions about our services or would like to start a custom project, call us at (954)-771-7204 today!
