8 Types of Label Adhesives [Infographic]

See the infographic at the bottom of this article.

We’ve all had those situations. Maybe you had to scour a buyer’s guide off the window of a car at your dealership. Or maybe you once spent the night labeling inventory only to discover the labels curling up the next morning. Clearly you need different label, but how do you know what’s right for your application?

Understanding the 8 types of label adhesives will go a long way to helping you find the perfect label.

Permanent

Permanent adhesive provides a strong and lasting bond that makes it ideal for long-term labeling.

Applications

  • Product Labeling
  • General Identification

Repositionable

Repositionable adhesive reduces the hassle of tight-fits. It can be peeled and repositioned before it adheres permanently in 48 hours.

Applications

  • Palette Rack Labeling
  • Signage

Removable

Removable adhesive stays flat while in use but comes off clean with no tearing or residue.

Applications

  • Auto Window Stickers

Ultra-Removable

Ultra-Removable adhesive comes off clean even on delicate surfaces like paper and newsprint.

Applications

  • Newspaper Labels
  • Book Labels

Ultra-Aggressive

Ultra-Aggressive adhesive will stay put even through heavy usage.

Applications

  • Equipment Labeling
  • Safety Labels

Cold Temperature / Freezer

These labels stick to frozen surfaces in temperatures as low as -40°F.

Applications

  • Lab Labeling

Tamper-Evident

These labels will either fracture or leave a noticeable pattern when removed, which helps protect products from warranty fraud or theft.

Applications

  • Asset Tracking
  • Equipment Labeling

High Tack

High-Tack adhesive is ideal adhesive for labeling rough, textured or powered surfaces.

Applications

  • Carpet Labeling
  • Tire Labeling
  • Equipment Labeling

Infographic of differences between direct thermal and thermal transfer printing

Now that you have a general understanding of label adhesives, you’re one step closer to finding your perfect label. Whether you’re labeling cans or cars, it’s always smart to ask for a sample so you can test the adhesive and determine if it is right for your application.