Label Materials 101: How to Choose the Right Label for Your Product
- Christina
- Mar 3
- 2 min read
Choosing the right label is about more than just looks — the material you choose impacts how well your label holds up in the real world.
At Ozark Tape & Label, we know every product has unique needs. From water-resistant labels for bath products to eco-friendly options for natural brands, this guide will help you understand your material choices so you can pick the best fit.
Paper Labels: Affordable & Versatile
Best For:
✔️ Short-term use products
✔️ Indoor items
✔️ Products stored in dry environments
Why Choose Paper?
Paper labels are a classic choice — they’re cost-effective and perfect for bold, vibrant printing. Plus, they’re easy to write on, making them ideal for handmade or small-batch products.
Things to Consider:
✖️ Paper isn’t waterproof, so it’s not the best choice for products exposed to moisture or oils.
✖️ It can tear more easily than synthetic materials.
Great for: Baked goods, candles, dry food products, crafts.
Polypropylene (BOPP) Labels: Durable & Professional
Best For:
✔️ Moisture-prone products
✔️ Food, beverages, beauty products
✔️ Products requiring a clean, professional finish
Why Choose BOPP?
BOPP (Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene) is a flexible, durable plastic that handles water, oils, and refrigeration like a pro. It’s also a superstar for clear labels, metallic finishes, and sleek, modern branding.
Things to Consider:
✖️ Slightly pricier than paper
✖️ Not biodegradable (but recyclable in many areas)
Great for: Skincare, sauces, beverages, bath products.
Vinyl Labels: Built to Last
Best For:
✔️ Outdoor products
✔️ Industrial equipment
✔️ Products exposed to rough handling
Why Choose Vinyl?
Vinyl is tough. It resists water, chemicals, UV rays, and abrasion — making it the go-to for outdoor and industrial applications. It also conforms well to curved surfaces, so it works for bottles, buckets, or gear.
Things to Consider:
✖️ Higher cost than paper or BOPP
✖️ Overkill for basic indoor products
Great for: Outdoor equipment, car decals, machinery labels, warning labels.
Eco-Friendly Labels: Sustainable & Stylish
Best For:
✔️ Sustainable brands
✔️ Eco-conscious packaging
✔️ Products with simple, earthy branding
Why Choose Eco-Friendly?
Made from recycled, biodegradable, or responsibly sourced materials, these labels help brands align their packaging with their values. They still offer great print quality, especially for minimalist designs.
Things to Consider:
✖️ May have limited resistance to moisture or oils
✖️ Slightly higher material cost
Great for: Organic foods, natural skincare, eco-conscious brands.
Adhesive Matters Too!
The best label material won’t mean much if it doesn’t stick properly! When choosing materials, also consider:
✅ Temperature: Will labels be applied to cold or frozen products?
✅ Surface: Smooth glass? Rough cardboard? Flexible plastic? Each surface needs a different adhesive.
✅ Removability: Do you need permanent adhesion or labels that peel off cleanly?
Not Sure What’s Best for You? We’re Here to Help!
Choosing the right label can feel overwhelming — but it doesn’t have to be. At Ozark Tape & Label, we work with businesses of all sizes to find label solutions that look great and perform flawlessly.
📞 Ready to get started? Contact our team today and let’s create labels that work as hard as your product does.