Common Spirit Labels Problems and How to Solve Them

_{Pranil Chandra  | 11/07/2025} 

Imagine you’ve just produced a batch of premium spirits, and your bottles look stunning - that is, until you notice the labels peeling off, smudging, or fading after a few weeks. It’s more than frustrating; it can damage your brand’s reputation and lead to regulatory issues or poor customer satisfaction. 

In this article, you will discover the most common liquor label challenges - like peeling, fading, and poor print quality - and, more importantly, how to fix them. By implementing these tips, you can ensure your labels stay intact, look professional, and enhance your brand’s image on every last bottle. 

Problem #1: Labels Peeling Off 

There’s nothing more frustrating than seeing your beautifully designed spirit labels start to peel before the product even reaches your customers. Whether it happens due to condensation, improper adhesive, or poor application, a peeling label can make even the finest liquor look unprofessional – and that’s a problem your brand can do without! 

Peeling labels: Why does this happen? 

Several factors can cause spirit labels to peel off: 

• Wrong adhesive choice – Not all adhesives work well on glass bottles, especially those exposed to moisture or temperature changes. 

• Condensation issues – When bottles are filled and stored in cold environments, condensation forms and weakens the adhesive bond. 

• Surface contamination – Oils, dust, or residues on the bottle surface can prevent the label from sticking to it properly. 

• Incorrect application – Applying labels at the wrong temperature or with air bubbles can lead to poor adhesion. 

How to prevent peeling labels 

To stop your labels peeling away, consider these solutions: 

• Choose the right adhesive – Go for high-tack adhesives designed specifically for glass and cold, damp environments. Rentons Labels offers adhesives that maintain a strong bond even with condensation. 

• Apply labels to dry, clean bottles – Ensure bottles are free from dust, oils, or moisture before applying labels. Wiping the surface with alcohol before application can help. 

• Use pressure-sensitive labels – These labels are flexible, durable, and adhere well to curved surfaces like bottles. 

• Control temperature & humidity during adhesion – Apply labels in a controlled environment where temperature and humidity levels are stable. 
   

A label that stays in place is essential for keeping your brand looking professional and appealing to customers.

Problem #2: Fading or Smudging Labels 

A spirit label should remain crisp and vibrant from the moment it’s applied until the bottle is empty, period. However, lots of manufacturers just like you encounter fading or smudging, which can make their labels look cheap and worn out. This not only affects their brand’s perception but can also make crucial product details tough to read, like its ingredients and alcohol content – which can be more than a nice-to-have but a legal requirement. 

Smudging spirit labels: Why does this happen? 

Fading or smudging labels can result from: 

• Poor print quality – Low-quality inks and printing methods that are not resistant to moisture or UV exposure. 

• Exposure to moisture & condensation – Spirit bottles are often stored in cool environments, and condensation can cause the ink to smear. 

• UV Light Exposure – Direct sunlight or store lighting can cause colours to fade over time. 

• Incompatible label material – Some paper-based labels absorb moisture, leading to ink bleeding and smudging. 

How to prevent smudging or fading labels 

To ensure your spirit labels remain sharp and readable: 

• Use waterproof & smudge-proof inks – High-quality UV-resistant inks prevent fading, and smudge-proof coatings help protect print integrity. 

• Choose a durable label material – Synthetic materials like polypropylene or polyester are more resistant to moisture than traditional paper labels. 

• Apply a protective coating – Laminates and varnishes add an extra layer of protection against smudging, fading, and general wear. 

• Store your bottles correctly – Keep your liquor bottles away from direct sunlight or harsh lighting that could accelerate fading. 

Investing in the right materials and printing techniques ensures that your spirit labels stay legible and visually appealing, reinforcing the quality of your brand. 

Problem #3: Poor Print Quality 

A well-designed spirit label should exude quality, but if the print is blurry, misaligned, or inconsistent, it can make even the most premium liquor bottle look subpar. Poor print quality not only diminishes your product’s shelf appeal but can also make it difficult for customers to read important details like alcohol percentage or brand messaging. 

Poor print quality: Why does this happen? 

Common reasons for poor print quality include: 

• Low-resolution artwork – Using low-quality images or improper file formats can result in pixelated or blurry prints. 

• Inaccurate colour reproduction – Certain printing processes may struggle to maintain colour consistency, leading to dull or off-brand shades. 

• Printing method limitations – Some printing techniques, like standard inkjet, don’t offer the precision or durability needed for high-end labels. 

• Ink bleeding and smudging – Poor ink adhesion can cause the design to appear smeared or unclear. 

How to overcome poor print quality 

To achieve sharp, high-quality prints on your spirit labels: 

• Use high-resolution artwork – Ensure your design files are at least 300 DPI and use vector graphics when possible. 

• Choose the right printing method – Digital printing offers precision and vibrant colours for small print runs and high-volume orders. 

• Invest in colour matching – Work with a label printer that offers Pantone colour matching to maintain brand consistency. 

• Opt for high-quality label materials – Glossy or matte finishes can enhance print clarity and protect against ink bleeding.
  

A sharp, well-printed label reinforces your brand’s professionalism and helps your product stand out on the shelves.