So you’ve made the switch to water-activated tape (aka gummed tape), great choice! It’s stronger, eco-friendly, and makes your packaging look instantly more professional. But what happens when it doesn’t stick the way it should?
Most problems with water-activated tape come down to simple fixes. Let’s walk through the most common issues and how to troubleshoot them.
1. Check your water levels
Water-activated tape works by using water to activate the adhesive on the underside. If the water balance is off, the tape won’t bond properly.
- Too little water: The adhesive won’t fully activate, so the tape peels off easily.
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Too much water: The tape can become soggy, curl up, or even slide off before drying.
Fix: Use a damp sponge or a water-activated tape dispenser that evenly moistens the tape. If you’re doing it by hand, make sure the sponge is wet but not dripping.
2. Mind the temperature
Environmental conditions can affect how tape sticks.
- Cold weather: Adhesive takes longer to activate, and the tape may not bond as firmly.
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Hot or humid weather: Excess heat or moisture can interfere with drying, making the tape feel loose.
Fix: Store your tape in a room with moderate temperature and humidity. If you’re packing in cold weather, let the sealed boxes sit inside a warmer space to help the tape cure properly.
3. Smooth the tape down
Sometimes the issue isn’t the tape or the water, it’s the application.
- If the tape isn’t pressed firmly against the box surface, air pockets can stop it from bonding.
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Rough or dusty cardboard can also make it harder for the tape to stick.
Fix: After applying the tape, run your hand or a roller firmly over it to smooth it down. For dusty or recycled boxes, give the surface a quick wipe before sealing.
4. Adjust your wetting technique
If you’re noticing inconsistent sticking, it might be about how you’re wetting the tape.
- Some parts of the tape may be wetter than others, leading to uneven adhesion.
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If you’re using a dispenser, check that the brushes or water tank are clean and distributing water evenly.
Fix: Regularly clean your dispenser, and if you’re wetting manually, make sure the whole adhesive strip is evenly dampened.
5. Don’t forget storage
How you store water-activated tape matters. If it’s left in extreme heat, humidity, or direct sunlight, the adhesive can weaken over time.
Fix: Keep tape stored flat in a cool, dry area. Always close the roll back into its packaging if you won’t be using it for a while
When water-activated tape isn’t sticking, the culprit is usually something simple: water levels, temperature, application, or storage. With a few quick adjustments, you’ll get back to strong, tamper-proof seals that make your packaging look polished and professional.
