How to Store Labels in Hot Weather: The Complete Guide

Why Proper Label Storage Matters

With summer temperatures rising across the UK, businesses face an often overlooked challenge: protecting their label inventory from heat damage. While we all enjoy the warm weather, soaring temperatures can have detrimental effects on self-adhesive labels, potentially disrupting your operations and increasing costs.

This comprehensive guide explains the science behind label degradation and provides practical storage solutions to maintain label quality throughout the UK’s increasingly warm summers.

IMPORTANT ALERT: All self-adhesive labels, regardless of age or type, can suffer significant damage when exposed to temperatures above 25°C.

 

The Science Behind Heat-Damaged Labels

When self-adhesive labels are exposed to elevated temperatures, several problematic reactions occur:

What Happens to Labels in the Heat

• Adhesive Migration – The adhesive compound becomes more fluid and spreads beyond the label boundaries
• Substrate Warping – Label backing materials can curl or distort
• Premature Aging – Heat accelerates the breakdown of adhesive compounds
• Decreased Tackiness – Adhesive properties can permanently change, reducing stickiness
• Print Degradation – Pre-printed information may fade or blur

Real-World Consequences

Heat-damaged labels create several operational challenges:

1. Printer Feed Problems – Warped or adhesive-leaking labels jam printers
2. Poor Adhesion – Labels may fail to stick properly to products
3. Reduced Scan Rates – Barcode quality can deteriorate
4. Wasted Inventory – Entire rolls may become unusable
5. Production Delays – Last-minute label replacements cause scheduling issues

 

Optimal Storage Conditions for UK Businesses

To maintain label quality year-round, follow these essential storage guidelines:

Temperature Management

• Ideal Range: 15-20°C (59-68°F)
• Maximum Safe Limit: 25°C (77°F)
• Minimum Safe Limit: 10°C (50°F)

Environmental Factors

• Humidity Control: Maintain 40-60% relative humidity
• Light Exposure: Store away from direct sunlight and UV sources
• Air Circulation: Ensure moderate airflow to prevent humidity buildup
• Contaminant Protection: Keep away from dust, chemicals, and strong odours

 

Practical Storage Solutions for Different Business Settings

Office Environments

During summer heatwaves, office temperatures can easily exceed safe limits. Consider these alternatives:

• Interior Rooms – Choose spaces without exterior walls or windows
• Lower Floors – Heat rises, so basements or ground floors stay cooler
• Climate-Controlled Cupboards – Dedicated storage with temperature regulation
• After-Hours Adjustments – Lower office temperature overnight when labels aren’t being used

Warehouse Considerations

• Central Locations – Store away from loading doors and exterior walls
• Elevated Shelving – Avoid floor-level storage where heat can accumulate
• Insulated Areas – Create dedicated zones with additional insulation
• Thermal Barriers – Use reflective materials to shield storage areas

Small Business Solutions

Limited on space? Consider these practical approaches:

• Domestic Refrigeration – For small quantities, store in the coolest part of a refrigerator (not freezer)
• Insulated Containers – Use cooler boxes with non-freezing ice packs
• Evening Deliveries – Schedule label deliveries to avoid peak daytime temperatures
• Just-in-Time Ordering – Reduce storage needs with more frequent, smaller orders

 

Case Study: UK Print Shop Saves Thousands Through Proper Storage

A medium-sized print shop in Manchester previously stored their label inventory near windows in their production area. During a particularly hot week in July 2023, temperatures in this area exceeded 29°C for five consecutive days.

The result: £3,200 worth of damaged labels and two days of production delays when the damage was discovered during a large order run.

After implementing a dedicated storage solution in their basement with basic temperature monitoring, they’ve experienced:

• Zero heat-damaged labels
• 12% reduction in printer jams
• Improved client satisfaction with consistent label quality

 

Seasonal Storage Checklist for UK Businesses

Spring Preparation (March-May)

• Audit current storage locations for potential heat exposure
• Identify alternative storage options for summer months
• Consider investing in simple temperature monitoring devices
• Train staff on proper label handling and storage protocols

Summer Vigilance (June-August)

• Monitor storage area temperatures daily during hot periods
• Relocate labels when temperatures approach 25°C
• Schedule deliveries during cooler morning hours
• Consider smaller, more frequent orders during heatwaves

Autumn Transition (September-November)

• Return to standard storage locations as temperatures decrease
• Evaluate any summer damage and adjust protocols as needed
• Consider bulk ordering as temperature risks decrease
• Review and update storage procedures based on summer experiences

 

Additional Label Protection Tips

Beyond temperature control, protect your label investment with these practices:

• Original Packaging – Keep labels in manufacturer packaging until needed
• First In, First Out – Use oldest stock first to minimize aging
• Handling Protocols – Avoid touching adhesive surfaces and keep hands clean
• Partial Roll Storage – Use sealable plastic bags to protect partially used rolls
• Acclimatisation Period – Allow cold-stored labels to reach room temperature before use

 

Conclusion: Protecting Your Label Investment

While enjoying this summer’s warm weather, remember that your label inventory requires protection from the heat. By implementing these storage recommendations, you’ll avoid costly reprints, reduce waste, and maintain operational efficiency.

Taking simple precautions now—relocating labels to cooler locations below 25°C and away from direct sunlight—will ensure your labels perform as expected when needed.

 

Need Further Assistance?

Soabar’s expertise extends beyond supplying high-quality labels to helping you maintain their performance throughout their lifecycle. Our team can provide:

• Customized storage recommendations for your specific label types
• Temperature-resistant label options for challenging environments
• Solutions for limited-space storage scenarios
• On-site assessment of your current storage conditions

Contact Soabar Today:

• Speak with our knowledgeable sales team about your specific requirements
• Complete our contact form for a callback at your convenience
• Email us with your questions about label storage or performance