What is a silicone sticker release liner?

Release liners are the thin sheet that covers the sticker’s adhesive backs before use. Release liners are used to print, transport, and protect stickers. Most release liners use a thin layer of silicone to make it easy to peel off the sticker from the liner. Silicone is a man-made polymer that has a rubber-like consistency. The silicone layer on sticker release liners is less than the width of a human hair, but it provides a smooth surface with just enough grip for stickers to stay on until they are peeled off.

Unfortunately, silicone is not easily recyclable, meaning that most stickers are not recyclable due to their release liners. Consider our stickers made with recycled face stocks and silicone-free liners for a more eco-friendly sticker option.

Why can’t sticker release liners be recycled?

Most sticker release liners are made with a thin layer of silicone. Silicone makes it easy to remove stickers from the liner, but the material is not easy to recycle. There are no curbside recycling programs in the US that accept silicone, so silicone products must be taken to a special facility for recycling. Additionally, the layer of silicone on sticker release liners is so thin that it is very difficult to separate from the other materials in the release liner. These obstacles make it extremely challenging to recycle sticker release liners. The average person will not have access to proper places to recycle sticker release liners.

Thankfully, companies, like Greenerprinter, are working on more sustainable sticker choices. We offer sticker stocks that do not use silicone liners. This means that your next custom kiss cut sticker sheet could be fully recyclable!

What is the difference between uncoated and gloss stickers?

Uncoated stickers have a dull, matte appearance. They have a slight texture. Uncoated stickers can be easily written on with pens, pencils, and markers.

Gloss stickers have a sleek and shiny appearance. They have an extremely smooth texture. Gloss stickers are more challenging to write on. They require markers or pens, instead of pencils.

Both stocks are white and the same thickness. Here at Greenerprinter, we offer both finishes in a wide range of different shapes, including circles, rectangles, and custom die cut shapes.

Are labels recyclable?

Most labels are made with silicone release liners. Since silicone is extremely challenging to recycle, these release liners make the entire label sticker unrecyclable. Most labels are not recyclable. Thankfully, companies like Greenerprinter are working on more sustainable label options. We offer sticker stocks that do not use silicone liners. Your next product label could be completely recyclable!

Are uncoated stickers waterproof?

Uncoated stickers are not waterproof. Since they are uncoated, there is no barrier between the moisture and the paper fibers. This means that liquid will cause damage to uncoated stickers. We recommend against using uncoated stickers outdoors, in bathrooms, in fridges or freezers, or in other locations where liquid and moisture are present.

Are gloss stickers waterproof?

Gloss stickers are slightly more water resistant than uncoated stickers, but they are still not waterproof. The gloss coating provides a slight barrier between moisture and the paper fibers. This gives you a few extra seconds to wipe up any spilled liquids that hit your stickers before damage occurs. These stickers should not be used outdoors for extended periods of time. We also recommend keeping them away from contact with liquids and moisture.

Are stickers safe for cars?

Most stickers are safe to add to cars, but some will handle the wear and tear of being outdoors far better than others. When picking stickers for your car, you should look for ones labeled as bumper stickers or weather-resistant. These stickers will hold up much better to the rainy, dirty, and windy conditions that you might find on the exterior of your car. When it is time to remove the stickers on your car, be careful not the scratch the car’s paint. It is better to remove the stickers using water or heat than by scratching them off.

How do you remove stickers?

Our eco-friendly stickers are meant to be permanent so they can be tricky to remove. The best sticker removal method will depend on what surface the sticker was put on. Here are a few sticker removal ideas:

• Apply heat. Use a hairdryer to heat up the sticker. This should loosen the adhesive enough for the sticker to peel right off.
• Soak with rubbing alcohol. Rubbing alcohol can help break down the sticker adhesive quickly. Completely soak the sticker with rubbing alcohol and wait for the sticker to absorb the liquid. Let it sit for a few minutes and then wipe away the sticker. You can also do this with vinegar instead of rubbing alcohol.
• Scape it off. Use a thin, sturdy object (like a credit card or scraper) to get under one corner or side of the sticker. Once you have pried up part of the sticker, use the lifted area to peel the rest of it up. This method can easily damage the material under the sticker.
• Soak with hot water. The temperature of the water will loosen the adhesive while the water breaks down the sticker’s paper fibers. After the sticker has soaked for a while, it should slide right off.

What are product labels?

Product labels are stickers that provide important information and branding for a specific product. Product labels are a part of the product’s packaging and can include information like ingredients, warnings, package contents, directions for use, measurements, and more. These labels also provide important space for company branding including logos and brand names. Product labels identify, promote, and explain a product.

What is the difference between paper and vinyl stickers?

Paper and vinyl are both options for sticker facestocks (the topmost part of a sticker that carries the ink or added coatings). Paper stickers are made from a pulp made from trees. Vinyl stickers are made from synthetic plastic. Vinyl sticks are much more durable than paper stickers. Vinyl stickers are tear and scratch resistant and hold up well to water and outdoor use. Paper stickers are more suited for indoor or temporary use. Paper stickers are often less expensive to produce. Additionally, paper stickers are recyclable (except for the liner) so adding them to a recyclable product will not change the product’s ability to be recycled. Vinyl stickers should not be recycled.

How big are bumper stickers?

Bumper stickers can come in many sizes. The most common bumper sticker size is 3 x 11.5 inches. This size fits the contour of most cars and is easily visible from the road, without being too large. Other bumper sticker sizes include 5 x 7 inches and 3 x 8 inches.

What is the difference between a sticker and a decal?

The two terms can be used interchangeably, but there are subtle differences in their meanings! Decals typically refer to stickers that are used for decorative purposes. Decals are often made from vinyl and can be so complex that they require a special type of transfer tape during the application process. Sticker is a broader term that applies to any type of adhesive label.

What is a kiss cut sticker?

Kiss cutting refers to a trimming technique where an uncut liner is left on a custom-shaped sticker. A kiss cut is much lighter than a die cut, so only the sticker material is cut and the liner is left intact. Kiss cutting leaves extra material around the sticker which can make it easier to peel the sticker lining off. The extra sticker material can be printed to create a fun background on your sticker sheet.