Take a break from sticker gunk? Yes please.

What kind of label is best for you?

Canning is a great way to preserve fruits, vegetables, and other food items for long-term storage. But, as any canner knows, it’s important to use appropriate jar labels so you know what’s inside and when it was canned. However, traditional canning jar labels, such as masking tape with a permanent marker leaves much to be desired. And don’t even get me started on canning stickers that aren’t easy to remove. That’s why it’s important to explore other options when it comes to labeling your canning jars.

In this post, we’ll take a look at different types of canning jar labels and why dissolvable labels might be your best option. From traditional labels to waterproof labels, we’ll cover all the pros and cons so you can make an informed decision about how to label your jars. So, whether you’re a seasoned canner or new to the game, keep reading to learn how to label your jars like a pro.

Traditional Canning Jar Labels

When it comes to traditional canning jar labels, there is a lot to be desired. This might be a regular sticker you’ve picked up on Amazon or at a Farmer’s Market – Or something easier like a piece of masking tape. These methods are cheap and easy to come by, but they do have some limitations. First, they can be difficult to remove, especially if they’ve been on the jar for a while.

Another limitation of traditional labels is that they tend to leave a residue on the jars, making them difficult to clean. And if you’re using glass jars, the residue can make it difficult to see the contents of the jar.

Despite these limitations, traditional canning jar labels can work well in some situations. For example, if you’re only planning to store the jars for a short period of time and you don’t mind the difficulty of removing the labels, traditional labels may be a good choice. But, if you’re looking for a more durable and long-term solution, it’s worth considering other options. If you’re selling the preserves and aren’t worried about cleaning the containers yourself – this could also work.

Waterproof Labels

Waterproof labels are another alternative to traditional canning jar labels. They are designed to withstand moisture and heat, making them a great option for canning jars. These labels are also easy to apply and remove, and they come in a variety of sizes and shapes to fit any jar.

 

One of the main benefits of waterproof labels is that they can withstand the high temperatures of the canning process, which means that the labels will remain legible even after being submerged in boiling water. Additionally, these labels are resistant to moisture, so they won’t fall off or become unreadable if the jars are stored in a damp place.

However, while waterproof labels are more durable than traditional labels, they do have some limitations. For example, they can be more expensive than traditional labels and they may not be as environmentally friendly as other options. In my experience, waterproof labels are also difficult to remove and usually made with more plastics & non-biodegradable materials.

Dissolvable Labels

Dissolvable labels might be your best option when canning. These labels are specifically designed to dissolve easily in water, making them easy to remove and leaving no residue behind when it’s time for clean-up. Dissolvable labels don’t last forever, but if you’re planning on using the contents of your jar within 12-24 months, you should be fine. After that, the humidity in the air removes some of the label’s effectiveness.

One of the main benefits of dissolvable labels is that they are easy to remove, so you won’t have to spend hours trying to peel them off. Simply run the jar under warm water, and the label will dissolve in seconds. Plus, dissolvable labels are environmentally friendly as they are biodegradable and safe for composting.

Another benefit of dissolvable labels is that they come in a variety of sizes and shapes, so you can find the perfect fit for your jars. They are also available in different colors, so you can color-code your jars for easy identification.

When using dissolvable labels, it’s important to make sure you’re using the right type of label for your jars. For example, if you’re storing your jars in the freezer, you’ll want to use dissolvable freezer labels that are specifically designed to withstand the cold temperatures. Also keep in mind appropriate sizing:

• 1.5″ Circles = Favor Jar
• 2″ Circles = Normal Mason Jar
• 3″ Circles = Wide Mouth Mason Jar

Did you figure out which mason jar labels are best for you?

Whether you’re a seasoned canner or new to the game, making the switch to a new type of label can be a tricky decision.

When labeling your jars, it’s important to consider the type of food you’re storing, the length of time you’re planning to store it, and the storage conditions. With the right labels, you’ll be able to keep your jars organized and easily identify the contents, saving you time and frustration in the long run.

Our vote is for dissolvable labels (I know we’re a bit biased).  Why not give them a shot? Share your ideas below!
Happy Canning!