Maya Ellison
Labelling plastic storage containers can be a fun and creative task, but it is also an important one. Labelling can help you keep track of your belongings and save you time when searching for a particular item. There are many ways to label a plastic storage container, from using a simple marker pen to printing out labels. You can also use adhesive label holders, which allow you to quickly put your printed labels anywhere. If you want to get creative, you can even use a Cricut machine to make category labels or QR codes for your containers.
Characteristics and Values Table for Labelling Plastic Storage Containers
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of Container | Plastic storage containers; clear or coloured, with or without lids |
| Method | Use a label maker or print labels; write directly on the container or tape; use adhesive label holders or stencils |
| Materials | Paper or cardstock; perforated, removable, or adhesive labels; clear packing tape or shipping tape; blue painter's tape or masking tape; permanent markers or Sharpies |
| Content | Label names/categories; descriptions; photos or lists of items |
| Format | Large or small labels depending on container size; colourful or plain |
| Durability | Humidity-friendly; resistant to temperature shifts |
| Ease of Removal | Removable labels or tape that can be easily removed without leaving residue |
| Customisation | Custom labels from Etsy; QR codes; numbers or codes with corresponding lists or spreadsheets |
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What You'll Learn
Using a label maker
Choose the Right Label Maker:
There are various types of label makers available, from manual label makers to those that connect to your computer. Choose one that best suits your needs and budget. Manual label makers are inexpensive and easy to use, while computerised label makers offer more customisation options.
Prepare Your Containers:
Before you start labelling, ensure your plastic containers are clean and dry. Wipe them down with a cloth to remove any dust or dirt. If you're having trouble getting labels to stick to your containers, you can try using acetone to dull the gloss on the surface of the plastic, improving glue adhesion.
Plan Your Labels:
Take an inventory of what's inside each container and decide on the appropriate labels. You can use Post-It Notes and a marker to quickly jot down the label names and categories. If you're using a computerised label maker, you can type out the labels and even include additional details or descriptions. Proofread your labels for any errors before printing.
Apply the Labels:
Once you've created your labels, it's time to apply them to your containers. Ensure the surface is smooth and clean. If you're using a manual label maker, follow the instructions to create your labels and apply them directly to the containers. If you're using adhesive label holders, you can print and insert your labels into the holders, then stick them onto your containers.
Consider Additional Protection:
To ensure your labels stay put and are protected from wear and tear, consider using clear packing tape over them. Apply the tape smoothly, covering the entire label and extending it slightly beyond the edges. Avoid touching the sticky side of the tape, as this can affect its adhesion.
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Stickers
Using stickers is a great way to label plastic storage containers. There are many types of stickers available, from plain index cards to pre-made adhesive labels. If you're using a pre-made label, you can improve glue adhesion by wiping the surface of the container with acetone or rubbing alcohol first and letting it dry. Then, apply your label.
If you're using a plain index card or piece of paper, you can write on it with a permanent marker or print out your label. To get the label to stick, cover it with clear packing tape. You can also use PVC tape or duck/duct tape, which uses an old-fashioned rubber-based adhesive that doesn't evaporate. Make sure to cover the entire surface of the card and the surrounding area of the container for good measure.
If your container is clear or translucent, you can put the label inside the box, facing out. Attach it with a little bit of tape if it slides around too much. You can also use a label maker, which plugs into your computer and creates labels that rarely come off.
Another option is to use a label holder, which you can stick directly onto your container or slide the labels into and then secure the holder to the container. This method makes it easy to swap labels whenever needed.
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QR codes
There are several companies that offer QR code label-making services, such as ToteScan, which offers unique, globally-recognisable labels that can be scanned with a mobile app. ToteScan also offers co-branded labels that can be used for marketing and branding purposes.
Another option is QR SmartLabels, which are manufactured, printed, and packed in the USA, ensuring high quality and safety standards. These labels can be used for moving, storage, and general organising.
You can also create your own QR code labels using a QR code generator website or app. For example, QR-code-generator.com allows you to enter text and then provides options to save or copy the QR code image. You can then insert the image into a document or print it out to stick on your plastic storage container.
When creating QR code labels, it is important to use a high-quality printer to ensure that the QR code is readable. Dynamic QR codes can also be used to include protected data, such as passwords, and to track users who have scanned the code.
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Paper and tape
If you want to label a plastic storage container with paper and tape, there are several methods you can use. One option is to write directly on a piece of paper and then use clear packing tape to stick it to the container. You can also use white duct tape or masking tape and write on it with a marker, such as a Sharpie. If you want a more temporary solution, blue painter's tape is a good option as it is designed to be removed easily without leaving residue. For clear plastic containers, you can place the piece of paper with the label inside the box, facing outwards, and attach it with a small piece of tape if needed.
To improve the adhesion of the tape, you can wipe the surface of the container with acetone or any good solvent before applying the tape. This will remove any release agents or slippery textures that may prevent the tape from sticking effectively.
When using paper and tape to label plastic storage containers, it is important to consider the environment in which the containers will be stored. For example, if the containers will be stored in direct sunlight, certain types of tape or ink may not be as durable. Additionally, if the containers will be handled frequently, you may need to reinforce the labels to ensure they do not peel off.
Overall, using paper and tape to label plastic storage containers can be a simple and effective method, especially if you need to make frequent changes to the labels.
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Permanent markers
To ensure the marker labels last longer, you can try the following methods:
- Degrease the plastic surface and lightly flame treat it with a jet-type lighter to burn off any oils. Then, apply the permanent marker.
- Use a Dremel rotary tool or a straight pin to scratch or etch words or lines onto the plastic. Go over the scratches with a permanent marker, so there is still some ink left in the recesses even if the marker loses its colour.
- Cover the marker ink with clear packing tape to protect it and make it last longer.
- Use paint pens or ear tag markers, which may work better than Sharpies on certain plastics.
If you are labelling food storage containers, you can use EXPO Low Odor Wet Erase Markers, which can be easily wiped off for relabelling. These markers are also suitable for writing short descriptions and dates directly on glassware.
For long-term storage, some people prefer using a label maker, like the Brother label maker, which creates labels that are more durable and do not peel off easily. Alternatively, you can cut index cards to fit plastic name tag holders glued to the storage containers, allowing you to replace the name tags as needed.
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Frequently asked questions
You can use a combination of a marker and adhesive tape. For instance, you can write on a piece of blue painter's tape with a Sharpie. Alternatively, you can use a label maker, such as the Brother label maker, or print your own labels on perforated paper and attach them to the containers using adhesive label holders.
You can use a Cricut machine to make category labels for your containers. Alternatively, you can use a smart cutting machine to create labels using removable Smart Vinyl, which can then be installed on the containers using transfer tape.
You can use a label maker, such as the Brother label maker, which creates labels that can be peeled off without leaving residue. Alternatively, you can use replaceable label holders and slide in a small card with the label written on it. When you want to change the label, simply replace the card.
