We live in an eco-conscious era where sustainable packaging solutions are more critical than ever. Essentially, a label comprises a paper face and the adhesive, the sticky part that ensures it stays in place. Among the hundreds of available labels, wash-off and water-soluble labels often get mixed up. Although both seem similar, their applications and benefits differ greatly. Businesses in the label and packaging industry must understand the distinctions to make the most informed choice.
What Are Wash-Off Labels?
Wash-off labels have been around for quite some time, with their inception tracing back to the early 20th century. They feature a specially formulated adhesive that allows the label to detach from the container when subjected to hot water during the washing process. The design of wash-off labels focuses on the adhesive, which leaves the receptacle clean and ready for reuse.
It makes them ideal for applications where containers undergo thorough cleaning processes. The technology has been particularly beneficial for industries that rely on returnable and reusable packaging, thus helping them meet sustainable packaging goals and comply with environmental regulations.
Typically adhered on returnable glass beverage bottles, like rigid plastic crates or beer bottles, wash-off labels facilitate recycling by ensuring that labels do not contaminate the recycled materials. That said, wash-off labels have limitations. The removal process often requires hot water and sometimes additional cleaning agents, which can increase water usage and energy consumption. In addition, the adhesive residue—Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene (BOPP) and Polyethylene Terephthalate (PPE) films—are not readily biodegradable and often end up in landfills. While rare, some recovery facilities can collect this sludge for repurposing into new products like garbage bags.
What Are Water-Soluble Labels?
Also known as dissolvable labels, water-soluble labels are a groundbreaking innovation in sustainable packaging. They leverage a unique fully dissolvable adhesive and dispersing face stock combination that completely dissolves upon contact with water. This leaves behind a completely clean container ready for reuse or recycling. SmartSolve is at the forefront of providing water-soluble paper-based technologies.
Unlike wash-off labels, the adhesive and the face of water-soluble labels dissolve completely when exposed to water. A complete dispersion makes them highly efficient for both temporary labeling applications and, more recently, prime labeling applications with our recent APR Design® for Recyclability Recognition. Water-soluble labels boast several advantages:
- Effortless Removal: No harsh chemicals or scrubbing are necessary. Simple immersion in water dissolves the label thoroughly.
- Reduced Water Usage: Eliminates the need for hot water or additional cleaning steps, which lowers water consumption.
- Better Recyclability: Dissolvable labels contribute to a cleaner and more efficient recycling process since the adhesive dissolves completely while the face of the label disperses, rinses off entirely, and is safe to go down the drain. It offers a less persistent material that is not likely to end up in landfills.
- Versatility: These labels can adhere to various hard surfaces (such as glass, plastic, metal – anything smooth and hard), making them suitable for numerous applications.
Which Label Is Right For You?
Choosing between wash-off labels and water-soluble labels for sustainable packaging depends largely on the specific application and the desired outcome. Dissolvable labels are ideal for applications requiring temporary labeling with an emphasis on sustainability and ease of removal. For instance, they are perfect for:
- Reusable plastic containers
- Grocery store tray applications
- Product packaging (clamshell plastics)
- Lexan food containers (restaurant industry)
Since the adhesives on water-soluble labels are designed to dissolve in a variety of water temperatures, they can be removed during the washing process without compromising the container’s integrity or its contents. Conversely, wash-off labels are more suitable for applications involving returnable and reusable beverage containers, such as water bottles often immersed in ice-filled coolers.
Learn More About SmartSolve Water-Soluble Labels
Although effective for specific applications, wash-off labels often leave behind deposits that potentially impact the recycling process. In contrast, SmartSolve’s water-soluble labels dissolve completely in water, leaving behind zero residues. This makes them ideal for both temporary labeling and on-shelf consumer packaged goods. Our APR design recognition further highlights our commitment to sustainable packaging solutions across various applications.
To Learn More
To learn more about SmartSolve’s product offerings and how you can use them for your specific application, request a sample or contact our team today.
Marketing Manager