Choosing the Best Material for Your Product Labels

One of the most important aspects of creating the best custom product label is choosing the right materials. The materials you choose not only affect the quality of the label but also the label’s functionality and aesthetic. There are a variety of options to choose from when creating custom labels.

Questions to Consider First

Before selecting your label material, answer these questions:

• What type of material will your label be sticking to?
• Will your products be exposed to harsh chemicals, weather conditions, or water/oil?
• Are you going for an environmentally friendly look or upscale, luxury aesthetic?
• What size and shape will your label be?
• Do you prefer a gloss laminate or matte foundation?
• Is your product container a solid color or clear?
• What color and finish would your label design look best on?

Paper Labels

Uncoated White Paper

The most basic label option. Can be used for almost anything that won’t come in contact with water or oil.

Brown Kraft Paper

Specifically for achieving the appearance of a kraft paper bag. This gives a more eco-friendly, sustainable, or handmade aesthetic. It’s 100% recycled and great for adding a natural, rustic look.

White Semi-Gloss Paper

Known for indoor use and very cost efficient. The semi-gloss finish provides a crisp and clean reproduction of your artwork. Ideal for labels that will be handled often as it is less resistant to smudging and dust.

White Gloss Paper

This material provides the highest quality shine. Gloss labels produce vibrant colors and are an inexpensive labeling material. Great for getting your products seen on shelves.

Vinyl Labels

Clear Vinyl

Used for wet applications or longer shelf life. The main reason to use clear vinyl instead of white vinyl is when the product under the label needs to be seen—for example: candles, drinks, oils, or glass bottles.

White Vinyl

Used for wet applications or longer shelf life. These labels offer great image reproduction and can easily be cut to custom shapes. Can be applied directly onto plastic, paper, cardboard, or glass surfaces with great results.

Specialty Materials

Silver Metallic

Gives your products a polished sheen. The metallic print reflects light and provides a high-quality look. Available in matte or glossy finish. Resistant to sun, water, oil, and is freezer safe.

Fluorescent Paper

Designed for helping labels POP and stand out, especially when used with vibrant colors. Perfect for eye-catching displays and special promotions.

Matte Paper

The clean surface of a matte white label provides a great canvas. Its coated surface allows for great artwork reproduction. Matte paper will not be marred by fingerprints or produce a glare.

Film Materials

Squeezable Film

Flexible film eliminates peeling and wrinkling on shaped containers. Great for labeling squeezable tubes and bottles of items like lotions, toothpaste, CBD balms, and other health and beauty items.

White Film (BOPP)

This film material is both durable and flexible. Suitable labeling applications include squeezable and rigid plastic containers.

Polyester

Provides excellent clarity and high durability. Valued for ability to resist moisture, decay, and extreme temperatures.

Polyethylene (PE)

Suitable for applications requiring resistance to water, oil, and chemicals. This film contours well and is flexible, making it great for squeezable packages. Typically used in home care labeling, health and beauty.

Polypropylene

Suitable for applications requiring resistance to water, oil, and chemicals. Has great transparency, giving a “no-label” look. Common applications include beverages, health and beauty.

Material Selection Guide

For Wet/Outdoor Applications

• Vinyl (clear or white)
• BOPP film
• Polypropylene
• Polyester

For Cost-Effective Indoor Use

• Semi-gloss paper
• Gloss paper
• Uncoated white paper

For Premium/Luxury Products

• Silver metallic
• Matte paper
• Textured specialty materials

For Squeezable Containers

• Squeezable film
• Polyethylene
• Flexible BOPP

For Eco-Friendly Aesthetic

• Brown kraft paper
• Recycled materials

Conclusion

Choosing the best label material requires considering waterproof needs, transparency preferences, product type, and desired aesthetic. Whether you need waterproof labels for beverages, elegant matte labels for premium products, or flexible films for squeezable containers, selecting the right material ensures your labels perform well and represent your brand effectively.