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#1 Posted : 8/25/2022 4:41:27 PM(EST)
AuntDee

Rank: New User

Posts: 2
United States
Location: Illinois

Hi, I have been a long-time customer and LOVE your site and products. However, I have been having problems with the weatherproof matte for inkjet labels (OL125WJ & OL5051WJ) turning a dingy, aged yellow after printing and on product for a few weeks to months. Labels look fine while sealed in container so I'm wondering if it has something to do with after printing?

I am currently using an Ecotank ET-4850 but previously had a very old HP basic printer. The labels have been yellowing with both printers. Any thoughts or suggestions on what could be causing this?

Thanks for any help!
#2 Posted : 8/26/2022 7:55:10 AM(EST)
Josh


Rank: OnlineLabels Rep

Posts: 895
United States

Was thanked: 84 time(s) in 78 post(s)
I'm sorry to hear about the issue that you're experiencing. The weatherproof materials for inkjet printing feature a special topcoat that is designed to absorb ink and protect it from moisture. The absorbent nature of the topcoat can also make it somewhat susceptible to environmental factors. Being stored in proximity to essential oils, chemicals, or solutions featuring strong fragrances can sometimes permeate the absorbent topcoat and cause yellowing over time.

Sealing or laminating the printed labels will typically resolve this type of issue. Under similar circumstances, some users choose to apply a clear protectant spray to their labels. Krylon makes a series of clear protectant sprays that are commonly used for sealing and protecting artwork, but there are other manufacturers of these types of sprays as well. You should be able to locate these products through online retailers like Amazon, or by visiting local craft and hobby stores. Applying a clear glossy label on top of the printed label as a sort of laminate is another popular option for adding durability to environmental factors. Both methods are detailed in the "Add Durability" section of the guide linked to below:

https://www.onlinelabels.com/articles/how-to-make-labels-waterproof

In the future, if you're ever in the market for a new printer you may want to consider a laser model. Since laser printers use a dry, powder-based toner for printing, the weatherproof materials don't feature the same type of absorbent topcoat intended to absorb and protect liquid ink. The lack of the absorbent topcoat makes those materials more resistant to the different types of environmental factors mentioned above. There's no need to rush out a buy a new printer, as sealing the inkjet printed labels should improve the results, but it's just something to keep in mind when considering new equipment in the future.

I hope this helps. If you need any additional information please just let us know.
#3 Posted : 8/29/2022 11:33:12 AM(EST)
AuntDee

Rank: New User

Posts: 2
United States
Location: Illinois

Since I just bought this printer a couple months ago, I'll try spraying the labels. Thanks for your help.
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