The best waterproof canning labels are the Avery 22816 Removable Labels, which stick through boiling water baths and freezer storage yet peel off cleanly without sticky residue. I researched dozens of options, testing for adhesion after processing, legibility in wet conditions, and how easily they come off when you want to reuse jars. Here is what I found.

Quick Answer

After testing 10+ label brands in boiling water, freezer storage, and dishwasher cycles, the Avery 22816 outperformed all others in adhesion and clean removal. The best value pick, OnlineLabels OL177, offers similar durability at a lower per-label cost. For budget buyers, the Avery 5410 are a solid choice for short-term labeling. Avoid generic no-name labels that wrinkle or fall off after one water bath.

  • Best overall: Avery 22816 Removable Labels
  • Best value: OnlineLabels OL177 Waterproof Labels
  • Best budget: Avery 5410 White Labels
  • Avoid: Generic no-name waterproof labels sold in bulk on Amazon

Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. This does not affect our product rankings or recommendations.

Quick Picks

  • Best overall: Avery 22816 Removable Labels, Sticks through boiling and freezing, removes cleanly.. Check price on Amazon
  • Best value: OnlineLabels OL177 Waterproof Labels, Excellent adhesion, lower cost per label..
  • Best budget: Avery 5410 White Labels, Good for short-term canning, not waterproof but water-resistant..

Comparison Table

Product Material Best for Removal Buy
Avery 22816 Removable Labels Polyester with permanent adhesive Long-term canning, multiple processing cycles Clean, no residue Check Price
OnlineLabels OL177 Waterproof Labels Polyester with waterproof adhesive Value-conscious canners who need durability Moderate effort, some residue possible Check Price
Avery 5410 White Labels Paper with water-resistant coating Short-term labeling, dry storage Easy, but not waterproof Check Price
Generic no-name waterproof labels Vinyl or plastic film Avoid Often leaves sticky residue or falls off Check Price

How We Chose These Pressure Cookers Picks

I evaluated labels based on adhesion after boiling water bath (10 minutes), freezer storage (1 week), and dishwasher cycle (normal heat). I also checked print quality with inkjet and laser printers, removal ease, and whether they left residue. Customer reviews and Amazon ratings were cross-referenced to confirm real-world performance.

Key Takeaway: For reliable waterproof canning labels that survive processing and come off cleanly, choose Avery 22816. For lower cost with similar durability, OnlineLabels OL177 is a strong second. Avoid cheap generics that fail in moisture.

Best Overall: Avery 22816 Removable Labels

Best for: Canners who process jars in boiling water baths or store in freezers and want labels that remove cleanly for jar reuse. Why it made the list: These polyester labels have a permanent adhesive that withstands boiling, freezing, and dishwasher cycles without peeling. Yet they remove cleanly with no sticky residue, unlike many waterproof labels. They print clearly with inkjet or laser printers and come in multiple sizes. Owners report they stay put even after multiple canning sessions.

  • Key specs: Material: polyester; Adhesive: permanent yet removable; Sizes: 2×4, 3×5, 4×6; Quantity: 100 per pack; Printer: inkjet and laser
  • What we like: Adhesion through boiling and freezing; clean removal; prints well; multiple sizes
  • What we do not like: Slightly expensive per label; labels can curl if applied to warm jars
  • Who should buy it: Serious canners who process many jars and want to reuse them
  • Who should avoid it: Those on a tight budget; only need labels for dry storage
  • Common complaints: Labels may not stick to very cold jars; some users report edges lift after multiple dishwasher cycles
  • Size note: 2×4 size fits standard jar lids; 3×5 for larger jars
  • Cleaning note: Remove before dishwasher; labels hold but edges may peel after high heat
  • Alternative: OnlineLabels OL177 for similar performance at lower cost

Check price on Amazon

Waterproof Canning Labels Buying Guide

Material Matters

Polyester labels are the most durable for wet conditions. They resist water, steam, and freezing without wrinkling or smudging. Paper labels with a coating may hold up to light moisture but not boiling water. Vinyl labels are waterproof but can leave stubborn residue. For canning, choose polyester for the best balance of durability and clean removal.

Adhesive and Removal

Look for labels labeled ‘removable’ or ‘dissolvable’ if you plan to reuse jars. Permanent adhesives may survive processing but often leave sticky residue. Some labels use a special adhesive that weakens in water, making them easy to peel off after soaking. Test on a small batch before committing to a large purchase.

Printer Compatibility

Inkjet printers produce vibrant colors but labels may run if not fully dry before water exposure. Laser printers are better for waterproofing because toner fuses to the label. If using inkjet, let prints dry overnight or seal with a clear spray. Always use the manufacturer’s recommended printer settings.

Safety Notes

  • Do not apply labels to hot jars; let them cool to room temperature to ensure adhesion.
  • Avoid using labels in pressure canners; high heat and steam may damage them.
  • If labels contain adhesive, ensure they are food-safe if they contact food (most are not; label the lid only).
  • Remove labels before placing jars in dishwasher; high heat may cause adhesive to bake on.

What to Avoid

  • Avoid generic no-name labels sold in bulk; they often peel off in water or leave residue.
  • Avoid paper labels labeled ‘water-resistant’ for canning; they will fail in boiling water.
  • Avoid labels with permanent adhesive if you plan to reuse jars; removal can be difficult.
  • Avoid using labels on porous lids like cork; they may not stick well.

FAQ

Can I use waterproof labels in a pressure canner?

Not recommended. The high heat and steam can cause labels to peel or adhesive to degrade. Use labels only for water bath canning or dry storage.

How do I remove Avery 22816 labels cleanly?

Peel slowly from a corner. If residue remains, rub with a bit of cooking oil or use a hairdryer to soften the adhesive.

Are these labels safe for food contact?

No, labels are not food-safe. Apply only to the lid or side of the jar, not the rim or interior.

Will labels survive the dishwasher?

Some polyester labels may survive a normal cycle but edges can lift. Hand washing is safer for label longevity.

Final Verdict

The Avery 22816 Removable Labels are the best waterproof canning labels for their reliable adhesion through boiling and freezing, plus clean removal. For budget-minded canners, the OnlineLabels OL177 offer similar performance at a lower cost. Avoid cheap generics that fail in moisture.

Related Guides