Introduction
It’s important to make sure that the bottle is clean and dry before you sticker on it, this will keep stickers from peeling off your water bottle. Using waterproof stickers and also covering them with clear tape can keep your sticker safe.
It’s better to wash your bottle by hand because strong soap from the dishwasher can make the stickers peel off. These simple steps will help your stickers to stay longer.
Why Do Stickers Come Off Water Bottles?
- Exposure to Water: Water slowly weakens the glue and makes the sticker fall off.
- Dishwasher Use: High heat and strong chemicals used in dishwashers can weaken the glue that keeps the stickers on.
- Friction: Touching the bottle mostly wears down the edges of the sticker. This can make the sticker to peel off.
- Heat and Sunlight: Keeping your water bottle at a high temperature or under sunlight can soften the glue and remove the sticker.
Choosing the Right Stickers for Durability
Before learning how to protect your stickers, it’s important to pick the right stickers. It’s important to keep in mind that all stickers aren’t the same, the quality of the sticker decides how long they will stick to your water bottle.
Vinyl Stickers
Waterproof Stickers
Waterproof stickers are made to not get damaged by water. These stickers have a protective layer that blocks water and helps prevent them from peeling off when you wash the bottle. This is a good choice if your water bottle often gets wet.
Heat-Resistant Stickers
Heat-resistant stickers can handle high temperatures without melting or peeling. This is helpful if your bottle gets hot from sunlight.
Properly Preparing the Bottle for Sticker Application
How well a sticker will stick to the bottle also depends on how you prepare the surface of the bottle. In case, the surface of the bottle isn’t cleaned then the sticker might peel off or not stick well.
Cleaning the Bottle Surface
Before you apply the sticker on the bottle, it’s important to ensure the water bottle is clean. Use a mild soap solution to clean off any dirt or oil easily. Even a little bit of grease can stop the adhesive from sticking properly.
Ensuring the Surface is Completely Dry
After cleaning the bottle it’s important to make sure that the bottle is completely dried before applying any stickers. If there’s any water or moisture under the sticker, this will make the sticker peel off faster. You can also dry the bottle with a clean towel to make sure that there’s no moisture left.
Best Methods to Prevent Stickers from Washing Off
As the bottle is ready and also have a good collection of stickers, let’s find out how to keep the stickers from peeling off when you wash the bottle. Here are some best methods:
1. Using Clear Packing Tape or Transparent Stickers
Steps:
- After applying the sticker, cut a piece of clear packing tape which should be larger than the sticker.
- Gently place the tape over the sticker and remove any air bubbles.
- Firmly press the edges of the sticker to apply the sticker completely on the bottle.
2. Applying a Protective Coating (Mod Podge or Vinyl Spray)
Applying a protective coating like Mod Podge (a water-based sealer) or a vinyl spray can add a layer that keeps water from reaching the sticker.
Steps:
- After applying your sticker, use a brush to apply a thin layer of Mod Podge over the sticker.
- Let it dry completely.
- You can apply a second coat for extra protection if required.
- When using a vinyl spray, keep the can a little away from the sticker. Also, allow it to dry.
3. Using Dishwasher-Safe Sealants
Products like dishwasher-safe Mod Podge provide long-lasting protection for stickers. This sealant is made to handle the heat and water pressure from dishwashers.
Steps:
- Apply your sticker to the clean and dry area.
- Apply a thin layer of dishwasher-safe Mod Podge over the sticker by using a brush.
- Allow it to dry completely, and then repeat the process to apply two or three layers.
- Leave the bottle for 28 days before washing it.
4. Heat Sealing Stickers for Better Adhesion
Many stickers like Vinyl stickers can stick better if you apply gentle heat after putting them on.
Steps:
- After you put on the sticker, use a hair dryer on low heat. Hold it above the sticker for a few seconds.
- Use your fingers or a cloth to press it down firmly.
- This results in the softness of the sticker and this also helps the sticker to stick better to the bottle.
5. Laminate the Stickers Before Applying
Steps:
- Place your sticker inside a laminating pouch and send it through the laminating machine.
- Cut down the laminated and remember to leave a little space around the edges.
- Apply the laminated sticker to your clean and dry bottle.
Best Practices for Cleaning Stickered Water Bottles
After putting the stickers, it’s important to clean them the right way to avoid stickers from coming off.
Hand Washing vs. Dishwasher Use
Avoiding High Temperatures
