What are the differences between PET, PP, PVC, and coated paper labels? A comprehensive comparison

Label face material determines performance; choosing the right material yields twice the result with half the effort

Self-adhesive labels consist of three layers: face material, adhesive, and release liner, among which the face material directly determines the label's performance. PET, PP, PVC, and coated paper are the four most common face materials on the market, each with its own characteristics and applicable boundaries. This article provides a comprehensive comparison from six dimensions: waterproofing, temperature resistance, flexibility, environmental friendliness, cost, and applicable scenarios.

PET labels: High strength, wide temperature range, preferred for outdoor scenarios

PET (polyethylene terephthalate) is a Grade A reliable material, a high-strength transparent plastic film. PET has a temperature range of -40~120°C and excels in outdoor weather resistance and chemical resistance. PET labels have excellent waterproof, oil-proof, and scratch-resistant properties, suitable for outdoor equipment identification, electronic product nameplates, and chemical container labels. PET material meets food contact safety requirements, has recycling code 1, and is recyclable. The disadvantage is that its flexibility is not as good as PP, and it requires appropriate adhesive when applied to curved surfaces.

PP labels: Good folding resistance, high cost performance

PP (polypropylene) is also a food-grade plastic with a temperature range of -20~130°C. Compared to PET, PP has better flexibility and folding resistance, making it especially suitable for curved bottle bodies that require bending application. PP labels have a translucent texture, meet food contact safety standards, and have recycling code 5. In terms of cost, PP is between coated paper and PET, with outstanding cost performance. The disadvantages of PP material are that its strength and scratch resistance are slightly lower than PET, and it is less stable than PET for long-term outdoor use.

PVC labels: Flexible and easy to apply but environmentally restricted

PVC (polyvinyl chloride) labels have the best flexibility among the four materials, especially suitable for applying to irregular curved surfaces. The temperature range is -20~80°C, and it is still used in cable identification, safety signs, and shrink labels. However, PVC has poor recyclability, with recycling code 3, and EU RoHS and REACH regulations strictly restrict its use. The industry trend is gradually shifting to PET and synthetic paper alternatives. PVC is not recommended for food contact scenarios.

Coated paper labels: Lowest cost, suitable for dry environments

Coated paper (clay coated paper) is the lowest-cost option among label face materials, with good color reproduction and clear dot. Coated paper weight ranges from 80g to 300g, and after lamination, waterproofness and durability can be improved. The biggest limitation of coated paper is that it is not waterproof—in humid environments or refrigeration conditions, the paper absorbs moisture and deforms. It is suitable for non-humid environments such as daily chemicals, logistics waybills, and dry food. If used in wet scenarios, lamination processing or switching to synthetic paper is necessary.

Comparison of core parameters of four types of labels

PET: temperature range -40~120°C, excellent waterproofing, high strength, medium-high cost. PP: temperature range -20~130°C, good waterproofing, good folding resistance, medium cost. PVC: temperature range -20~80°C, medium waterproofing, best flexibility, poor environmental friendliness. Coated paper: not resistant to high temperatures, not waterproof, excellent printing effect, lowest cost. When choosing, it is necessary to comprehensively consider the usage environment, durability requirements, and budget constraints.

Material selection suggestions: Match according to scenarios

For outdoor equipment identification, choose PET face material with permanent adhesive for the most reliable waterproof and weather resistance. For daily chemical product bottle labels, choose PP or PVC depending on the curvature, with PP being more environmentally friendly. For large-volume labels in dry environments, prioritize coated paper for the lowest cost. For frozen food labels, synthetic paper or PET with freezer-grade adhesive is needed. Electronic product labels usually choose PET for its high temperature resistance and good insulation properties. LeXiang Packaging supports small-batch, multi-variety label customization, with digital printing for quick proofing, and can recommend the best material solution based on specific product needs.