Buy Cheap Polypropylene Stickers, Buy Twice!

Before recommending the best material for your stickers, the team at Mobad always ask the right questions. Why? Because not all stickers are designed for the same conditions. The stickers we send to offshore oil rigs, are quite different to the ones to be used on council bins. Both are specifically made to survive the environmental conditions they face.

All stickers look great on day one. It’s True! But, how can you tell which ones will stand the test of time? Most cheap stickers you’ll find online are made from polypropylene.

Don't get us wrong - polypropylene is fine for short term applications but while it's affordable and looks great at first, it’s far from ideal for long-term or outdoor use.

Polypropylene Stickers Aren’t Robust Enough for Bins

Poor Durability

Polypropylene stickers lack the robustness of materials like PVC or vinyl. When exposed to UV light, moisture, and temperature fluctuations, they tend to degrade quickly, leading to fading, cracking, and peeling. This makes them unsuitable for applications requiring long-lasting outdoor stickers.

Limited Water Resistance

Despite being marketed as “waterproof,” polypropylene doesn't hold up well under prolonged exposure to moisture. In harsh or wet conditions, these stickers are prone to peeling or delamination, compromising their effectiveness and appearance.

Temperature Sensitivity

Polypropylene is sensitive to extreme temperatures. In fluctuating climates, it can shrink, warp, or lose adhesion, making it unreliable for outdoor applications where temperature variations are common (hello British weather!).

Short Outdoor Lifespan

Even when advertised for outdoor use, polypropylene stickers often last less than a year in demanding conditions. This short lifespan makes them unsuitable for tasks like [bin stickers], which require durability against prolonged exposure to the elements.

Lack of Flexibility

The rigidity of polypropylene means it doesn't conform well to curved or uneven surfaces. This inflexibility can lead to poor adhesion, edge lifting, and peeling over time, especially on textured surfaces.

Frequent Reapplication Costs

Due to their limited durability, polypropylene stickers often require frequent replacements. This not only increases labour and material costs, but also contributes to environmental waste, making them less cost-effective and less sustainable in the long run.

Poor Adhesion in Demanding Environments

In challenging settings, especially on rough or high-traffic surfaces, polypropylene struggles to maintain adhesion. It doesn't perform as well as high-tack vinyl, which is engineered to withstand wear and tear in demanding conditions.

Why Vinyl Stickers Are the Better Option

Vinyl stickers, especially when laminated, are designed to endure years of exposure to harsh weather conditions. They resist moisture and UV damage, keeping colours vibrant and graphics intact. Their flexibility allows them to stick to various surfaces, and their durability makes them ideal for industrial and commercial use – including applications like bin stickers and vehicle graphics.

So, if you want stickers that truly last, we've got you covered!

Don’t just take our word for it, find out for yourself… get in touch and we’ll send you some sample stickers to try for yourself.