How to Seal Stickers on Your Water Bottle

Stickers are a great way to decorate and personalize your water bottle, whether for promotional or personal use. However, it can be frustrating to see them peel or fall off due to constant use and exposure to moisture. We've put together a step-by-step guide to help you keep your stickers looking vibrant and intact. In this article, we’ll walk you through the materials you need and provide helpful tips on making your stickers look great for as long as possible

What Materials and Tools are Needed for Sealing Stickers?

Before learning how to seal stickers on water bottles, here are the materials and tools you’ll need:

High-quality stickers – If you have yet to buy stickers on your water bottle, choose ones that are resistant to moisture, fading, and moisture. These can be clear stickers, water bottle stickers, or any custom sticker you like.

Clear spray or brush-on sealant – This will add a protective layer on your stickers. If you can’t find a sealant, you can use a laminating film as an alternative.

Soft cloth – Use this to dry or clean stickers.

Mild soap and water – Keep your water bottle free from any dirt, dust, or oil by washing it with water and dish detergent.

Rubbing alcohol – This is optional, but it can help if you want surfaces to be cleaner.

Scissors – Use this to trim excess laminating film.

Plastic card or squeegee – This will help smooth out any air bubbles on the sticker. You can use an old credit card if you don’t have a squeegee.

Hair dryer or heat gun – This is optional, but it can help enhance the bond of the sticker.

Small brush – Use this to apply the brush-on sealant.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Sealing Stickers on Metal Water Bottles

You can start sealing your stickers once you have the materials and tools ready. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Prepare the surface - Wash the water bottle’s surface with dish soap and water. Then, dry the water bottle using a soft cloth and ensure it is clean and free from any lint or debris. To keep it extra clean, wipe some rubbing alcohol on the surface and let the surface dry completely.

Step 2: Apply the sticker - Align the sticker and place it on the metal water bottle. Gently peel off the backing and firmly apply the sticker.

Step 3: Smooth out the sticker - Using a card or squeegee, smooth out any air bubbles or wrinkled edges and ensure the sticker is as flat as possible.

Step 4: Apply heat - Use a hair dryer or a heat gun to enhance the bond of the sticker. Position the hair dryer a few inches away from the stickers and move it in a circular motion to heat the stickers evenly.

Step 5: Seal the sticker -There are a few ways to do this:
1. Clear spray sealant - Hold the can six to eight inches away and coat the sticker evenly. Let dry and apply a second coat if needed.
2. Brush-on sealant– Use a small brush to apply a thin coat of brush-on sealant to the sticker. Let it dry and apply a second or third coat as needed.
3. Laminate film – Place the sticker on the adhesive film and slowly peel off the backing. Smooth out any air bubbles and trim the excess parts.

Step 6: Let the sticker cure - After applying the sealant on your stickers, let it set for about 24 hours before using or washing the water bottle.

How Do I Seal Stickers on Plastic Water Bottles?

Here’s how to seal stickers for your plastic water bottle:

Step 1: Clean the water bottle’s surface - Wash the bottle with dish soap and water. Use a soft cloth to wipe off any dust, dirt, or residue on the plastic surface and let it dry. You may use a rubbing alcohol wipe for an extra clean base.

Step 2: Position the sticker - Place the sticker on the bottle and make sure it’s aligned before pressing it down.

Step 3: Apply the sticker – Starting from one edge, peel off the backing and press the sticker down carefully on the water bottle.

Step 4: Smooth out the sticker – Using a card or squeegee, flatten the sticker and smooth out any bubbles or wrinkles.

Step 5: Seal the sticker – Sealing the sticker depends on the type of sealant you’ll use.
1. Clear adhesive spray – Lightly spray a clear adhesive over the sticker and let it dry completely. Apply a few coats as necessary.
2. Brush-on sealant – Use a small brush to apply a thin coat of sealant to the sticker. Give the sealant a few minutes to dry and add two or three more layers to coat the sticker evenly.
3. Lamination film – Cut a piece of lamination film to size and apply it over the sticker. Remove any air bubbles by smoothing them out with a card or squeegee.
Step 6: Allow to set – Once you’ve applied the sealant, let the sticker and the sealant or laminate fully set for 24 hours before handling, washing, or exposing the bottle to moisture.

Tips on How to Maintain Your Stickers

If you want to make your stickers stay vibrant and last a long time, here are a few tips on how to maintain them:

Be gentle when cleaning your water bottle – Whether your water bottle is made of plastic or metal, always make sure to handle your bottle with care. Hand-wash your water bottle and use a soft cloth and mild soap when cleaning. Do not use abrasive sponges so that your stickers won’t peel off.

Avoid soaking your water bottle – Soaking your water bottle in water for extended periods can weaken the sticker’s adhesive and lead to fading. To avoid this, wash your water bottle promptly but gently and then air-dry them right away.

Do not use any harsh chemicals – When cleaning your water bottle, steer clear of bleach, alcohol, or strong solvents on the stickers. These could damage the print and their bond on the water bottle’s surface.

Do not expose your water bottle to extreme temperatures –Leaving your water bottle in hot cars or freezing temperatures can weaken the adhesive of the sticker. Additionally, placing your water bottle under direct sunlight can also damage the sticker and cause it to fade or peel.

By following this guide, you can keep your stickers preserved and protected on your water bottle. Remember to choose high-quality, waterproof stickers, apply them with care, and use the best sealing methods to ensure they last.

Looking for stickers to personalize your water bottle? PrintRunner has your printing needs covered. We offer a variety of custom stickers printed on premium-quality materials, perfect for adding a unique touch to your water bottle.

Looking for more resources on product labels? Take a look at these articles!

How to Choose the Correct Label Size

This article guide helps you learn two foolproof ways to measure the correct label size for your product.

An Easy Guide to Understanding Food Labels

Make sure that your food labels come with all the necessary and required information such as serving information, nutrient claims, best before dates, and more.

How to Choose the Right Label

This guide will help you decide the right type of label material, size, and shape that works for your product or application.