Pros and Cons of Different Types of Label Materials

Choosing the right label material can be the difference between a sharp looking label that appeals to consumers and a dull label that’s falling off your container. You need labels that not only look great but also stick with your products, handle environmental challenges, and fit within your budget.

In this guide, we’ll compare the two main types of label facestocks—paper and film—and break down technical performance, costs, substrate compatibility, sustainability, and real-world examples to help you make the best decision.

Understanding Label Facestocks: Paper vs. Film

When it comes to choosing a label material, factors like cost, appearance, and durability are key. In general, label facestocks (the top layer of your label material) come in two types: paper and film. Each type has its own set of pros and cons, so picking the right one depends on your specific needs.

Paper Facestocks

Paper is incredibly versatile and come in several varieties:

• Semigloss
• Gloss
• Textured
• Linen
• Felt
• Estate
• Metalized

Paper labels are usually less expensive than film, which makes them a great choice for products that don’t demand extra durability. Some paper stocks—like textured or matte-coated papers for wine labels—might cost a bit more, but they’re typically used for premium, high-value products like fine wines or craft spirits.

Performance Considerations

While paper labels look sophisticated, they’re a bit more delicate. Paper isn’t waterproof—even wet-strength paper (which is specially treated to resist water damage) will eventually get saturated. Plus, paper labels can wrinkle or tear if not handled carefully. One way to counter these issues is by using thicker paper stocks or adding an overlaminate.

Durability

Standard paper labels can lose about 30% of their stickiness over six months when exposed to a lot of moisture and sunlight. Independent studies from sources like Label & Narrow Web show similar trends.

Cost Analysis

If you’re working indoors, the upfront savings with paper labels are attractive. But in high-humidity or outdoor environments, the cost of replacements or even product recalls might add up, reducing those savings.

A case study from Packaging Strategies found that switching to more durable materials could reduce total packaging costs by up to 25%. Keep in mind these figures can vary based on your situation.

Film Facestocks

If you need labels that perform under tougher conditions, film facestocks might be your best bet. With film labels, you get:

• Resistance to water and moisture
• UV light stability
• Heat resistance
• Chemical resistance
• Abrasion resistance

Another cool thing about film is you can tweak its opacity. Whether you need completely opaque labels to protect sensitive products or clear covers for a “no label look,” there’s a film option for you. Digital label printers typically offer several types of film, including:

• Polypropylenes (BOPP): This sturdy film can be clear, white, or metalized—great for beverages, specialty foods, and other high-end labels.

• Polyester (PET): Built for durability, polyester labels excel outdoors, handling extreme temperatures, UV light, and chemicals. They’re available in clear, white, or vinyl finishes.

• Polyolefin: Soft and flexible, this film is perfect for beauty products or flexible packaging where the label must stay legible even when the product is squeezed.

Durability

Film labels keep over 95% of their adhesion even after extended outdoor use—lasting roughly 30% longer than standard paper labels. These numbers line up with research from Packaging Strategies and other industry sources.

Cost Analysis

Film labels have a higher upfront cost, but they might save you money in the long run by reducing the need for frequent replacements.

How to Choose the Right Label Material

We know it can be a headache trying to sort through all the pros and cons of different packaging materials on your own. Here’s a straightforward, step-by-step approach to help you choose the right label material for your products:

1. Evaluate Performance and Durability

Make sure the material will keep its grip under your specific conditions—whether it’s moisture, sunlight, or temperature swings.

2. Analyze Cost and ROI

• Upfront vs. Long-Term Costs: Weigh the initial cost against potential savings from fewer label replacements over time.
• ROI Metrics: For instance, imagine spending $0.05 per paper label versus $0.10 per film label. Even if film labels cost twice as much upfront, a 25% reduction in reapplications (as seen in several case studies) might mean lower long-term costs. These figures are just examples—your actual savings will depend on your specific situation.

3. Pair the Right Label Material, Adhesive, and Substrate

Check to see which adhesives and substrates work best with specific label materials. For example, you might discover that polyester film with a permanent adhesive is the best match for glass or metal surfaces.

In high-moisture environments, go for a film facestock paired with an adhesive engineered for plastics and metals.

4. Consider Sustainability and Compliance

Recent studies suggest that over 80% of manufacturers now lean toward eco-friendly materials. Look into options like recycled paper facestocks or biodegradable films that meet standards like the EU Ecolabel or the U.S. Green Seal.

Quick Checklist for Choosing Your Label Material

• Identify your environmental challenges: (e.g., moisture, UV exposure, temperature extremes)
• Compare material performance: Compare adhesion, durability, and longevity between paper and film.
• Evaluate cost vs. ROI: Look at both upfront costs and long-term savings.
• Match to substrate: Verify that your material is compatible with your product’s surface.
• Check sustainability: Confirm the material meets current eco-friendly and regulatory standards.
• Consult experts: If in doubt, reach out for a free consultation or get a free sample pack.

Get the Right Materials for Your Labels

We know choosing the right packaging material can be overwhelming. At Blue Label Packaging, we offer both paper and film labels and work side-by-side with you to find the best match for your needs and budget.

Contact us today to learn more about your material options, request a quote, or get a free sample pack.