Label Storage Guidelines

• 1. Use the original packaging
• 2. Store in a dry area
• 3. Keep the temperature consistent
• 4. Avoid dust
• 5. Prevent light exposure
• 6. Try an opaque container

1. Use the Original Packaging

Keeping your products in the original label packaging makes all the other tips easier. The packaging helps keep out dust, moisture and light, preventing surface and adhesive degradation.

2. Store in a Dry Area

Moisture and liquids are true enemies of self-adhesive labels. Damp conditions can damage even waterproof labels by reducing their ability to adhere. Moisture also can irreversibly ruin paper labels.

Chemicals and solvents can damage labels as well, so take care to store labels away from these materials.

3. Keep the Temperature Consistent

Temperature is among the four factors that affect a label's ability to adhere. The others are the length of time the label has been in place, the adhesive's strength and surface characteristics.

Fluctuations in temperature, whether on the high or low side, can degrade the adhesive. Extreme temperatures are the most frequent cause of adhesive degradation. They can hurt a label's ability to adhere or even start the adhesion process, rendering the labels useless.

Excessively high temperatures also create an issue with paper labels, particularly paper laser labels. High temperatures reduce the labels' moisture levels, which are needed for the labels to print correctly. Once printed, the toner on dried-out laser labels can crack and flake off.

For proper label storage, you also need to consider the sources of temperature fluctuations. Printers and computers can generate a lot of heat, so it's best not to store labels near them. Radiators and space heaters are other potential sources of extreme heat that you should be aware of. Likewise, air conditioning can create temperatures that are too cool, so you'll want to avoid placing labels directly under vents.

4. Avoid Dust

Dust causes particular problems for labels that run on applicators or thermal printers. These tiny particles act like sandpaper, wearing down the applicator or printer components, resulting in poor print quality.

5. Prevent Light Exposure

Exposure to direct sunlight or UV light is particularly damaging, but even artificial light can create problems. Light exposure can cause label surfaces to fade or discolor. If the light is also a heat source, it can contribute to further adhesive degradation.

6. Try an Opaque Container

Placing an opaque container over your labels can prevent dust, light and moisture damage. Combined with using the original packaging, this practice will help ensure your labels will always perform properly.