Waterproof vs. Water-Resistant: Which Film is Best for Your Beer or Wine Labels?

If your product is chilled, waterproof labels are a necessity—not a luxury. We put films like BOPP and vinyl to the "ice bucket test" against water-resistant paper so your beverage label stays professional, no matter the conditions.

The "Ice Bucket Test" and Why It Matters

Your beverage label must maintain its integrity under stress. A label on a wine bottle needs to look perfect when taken out of a chilled shelf display, and a beer label must survive a sweaty cooler or an ice bucket without peeling, bubbling, or smearing. This difference is defined by material: waterproof vs. water-resistant.

1. Water-Resistant Labels (The Risk)

A water-resistant label, usually made of coated paper or a standard film, can repel some moisture or minor splashes. These are commonly cheaper, non-film based materials.

• Performance: The paper core or adhesive can still fail when submerged, exposed to condensation for long periods, or rubbed while wet.
• Risk: If the ink is not waterproof, it will bleed when wet, ruining your brand image and making legally required information illegible.

2. Waterproof Labels (The Standard for Beverages)

True **waterproof labels** are made entirely of plastic film (like **BOPP** or **Vinyl**), which is completely impervious to water and humidity.

• BOPP (Biaxially-Oriented Polypropylene): The industry standard for drinks, food, and refrigerated products. It’s highly durable, resistant to oils and grease, and holds up perfectly in refrigerators and ice.
• The Key: When these films are paired with a strong permanent adhesive and waterproof inks (like UV-curable or solvent inks), your label is completely protected from condensation and immersion.

### Your Best Bet: Waterproof Film

If your product is a beverage (wine, beer, cider, water, kombucha) or a cosmetic (shampoo, lotion), **always choose a waterproof film label**. This is non-negotiable for brand integrity. A ruined label suggests a cheaper product, regardless of the quality inside the bottle.

➡️ **INTERNAL AUTHORITY BOOST:** The choice of material is the first step in creating a commercial-ready product. For a full overview of how materials fit into your overall branding, start with our core resource: The Ultimate Guide to Custom Bottle Labels.