How long do self-adhesive labels and stickers last?

Did you know that stickers and self-adhesive labels have a shelf life? If you've stored unused stickers or self-adhesive labels for too long, you may notice that their adhesive doesn't stick as well, or that the print quality doesn't look as sharp. The good news is that with the right storage methods, you can extend their life and get the most bang for your buck.

Shelf Life vs. Lifespan: What's the Difference?

Self-adhesive Label Shelf Life vs. Lifespan

When it comes to stickers and self-adhesive labels, there are two important timelines to know shelf life and lifespan.

Shelf life refers to how long a self-adhesive label or sticker can be stored under the right conditions without losing quality or adhesive properties. Lifespan refers to how long a sticker or self-adhesive label remains effective after it's been affixed to a surface.

The shelf life ends the moment a sticker or self-adhesive label is applied. But lifespan can last much longer. Most self-adhesive labels have a shelf life of 2-3 years, but can last 10-15 years after being applied.

What Affects the Shelf Life of Stickers and Self-Adhesive Labels?

The lifespan of stickers and self-adhesive labels depends on three main factors:

Manufacturing quality: High-quality materials and adhesives last longer.

Storage conditions: Improper storage, such as exposure to heat, humidity, or sunlight, can shorten the life of stickers.

Usage habits: If you order stickers in bulk, using a “first in, first out” method ensures that old stickers don’t sit unused for years.

How to Extend the Shelf Life of Stickers and Self-Adhesive Labels

Properly store your stickers to extend their shelf life

You can follow a few simple steps to ensure your stickers and self-adhesive labels last as long as possible.

Store at the Right Temperature: Store stickers in a cool, dry space between 60–77°F. Humidity levels should be kept around 50%. Climate-controlled storage is essential for businesses in tropical or desert climates.

Avoid sunlight: UV rays can fade sticker ink and shorten shelf life, even with a protective coating. Always store stickers indoors, away from direct sunlight.

Protect against liquids and damage: Water and other liquids can weaken adhesives and cause stickers to curl. Sealed, waterproof containers can protect your stickers from weathering, spills, and scratches.

Keep packaging intact: Original packaging protects the backing, adhesive, and print quality of stickers and labels. For single sheets, keep them flat and wrinkle-free. For rolls of stickers, keep the core to preserve the integrity of the roll.

When should you throw away stickers?

When should you throw away stickers

Even with proper care, sometimes it's best to discard old stickers and stickers.

Visible damage: If your stickers or labels are exposed to heat, moisture, or liquids, their bond strength may weaken or ink may distort.

Rebranding: If you change your logo, color scheme, or update your product line, your old stickers won't match the new brand.

Regulatory changes: Industries such as health care often need to update stickers to meet new regulations. Keeping a smaller inventory of stickers and labels or printing your own frequently changing stickers can help your business adapt quickly so you don’t have to discard large quantities of stickers.

Overstocking: Avoid buying more than a year’s worth of stickers. Even well-kept stickers can lose quality over time.