The Simple Printer Fix Most Teams Forget: Cleaning the Print Head

Thermal-Printhead

The Simple Printer Fix Most Teams Forget: Cleaning the Print Head

We recently supported a team experiencing poor print quality on their thermal label printer. Their labels were coming out faint, with missing lines and unclear barcodes. Believing the printer was faulty, they began looking for a replacement.

But a new printer wasn’t necessary.
The problem was simply a dirty print head.

It is a problem we see often. Many label printing teams are unaware that regular print head cleaning is not only possible but essential. Done routinely, it improves print quality, reduces downtime, and extends the life of the printer.

Why You Should Clean the Print Head

Thermal printers work by heating the print head to make marks on the label or ribbon. Over time, small bits of dust, glue or label material can stick to the print head. When this happens, this buildup can reduce print quality and lead to inconsistent performance.

Problems that may occur:

  • Light or faded print
  • Lines missing in the same place each time
  • Parts of the label not printing at all

If left dirty, the print head can even get damaged. Replacing it can be expensive. Some teams replace the whole printer when really it just needed a clean..

How to Know It Is Time to Clean

Here are some signs your print head needs cleaning:

  • The print looks weak or patchy
  • There are white lines through the text or barcode
  • You need to reprint labels often
  • Print problems are getting worse

What You Need

Cleaning your printer is simple. You only need:

  • A lint free cloth or cleaning pen
  • Isopropyl alcohol
  • A few minutes of your time

Important: Always turn the printer off and unplug it before cleaning.

How to Clean the Print Head

  1. Turn off the printer and unplug it
  2. Open the cover to find the print head
  3. Put some alcohol on the cloth or use the cleaning pen
  4. Gently wipe the print head from side to side
  5. Let it dry fully before turning the printer back on

Do not press too hard. A soft wipe is enough.

When to Clean

We recommend cleaning the print head:

  • Every time you change a label roll or ribbon
  • Or at least once a week in busy places

This small habit can stop bigger problems later.

Why It Is Worth Doing

Cleaning the print head helps you:

  • Improves the print quality
  • Avoid wasting labels and reprinting
  • Keep your printer running longer
  • Save money on repairs

A quick clean can save you time and money

Do not wait until the printer stops working. Make print head cleaning part of your regular routine.

Useful Links:

Learn how to clean your own label printer

How to Clean and Maintain Your Label Printer (Simple Guide)

Last Updated: January 23, 2026

BarTender Label Design & Print Software

BarTender Cloud

BarTender Label Design & Print Software

BarTender is one of the top two world-leading label design and print software suites – trusted by over 250,000 companies globally to design, manage and automate barcode labels, RFID tags, cards and more.

With powerful design tools and flexible printing options, BarTender is ideal for businesses of all sizes and industries that need robust, accurate, and legally compliant labelling solutions.

Powerful Label Design

BarTender Label Designer

BarTender makes creating professional labels fast and easy. You can design labels from scratch or choose from a large library of pre-built templates to help you meet industry standards and regulatory requirements.

Intelligent design tools help you to auto-populate data fields, link directly to data sources and reduce design mistakes.

Centralised Control & Workflow Standardisation

Whether your labelling operation is local or spread across multiple sites or even countries, BarTender lets you centrally manage your label templates and workflows. This ensures consistency in design and printing, improves compliance for audits, and reduces costly mistakes in production.

Comprehensive Printing & Integration

Mobile printing with BarTender

BarTender can print to thousands of different makes and model of desktop and industrial label printers.  Added to desktop computers, BarTender users can design and print labels from any browser based device including phones and handheld terminals.

BarTender also integrates with your business data through ERP, databases and spreadsheets.  With access to a single source of data BarTender ensures integrity and enables you to automate business processes reducing the cost, improving efficiency and reducing errors. 

Editions to Suit Your Needs

BarTender is available in multiple editions ranging from Starter through Professional, Automation and Enterprise, allowing you to choose the right level of functionality – from simple label design to fully automated, centrally managed labelling systems.

Why Choose BarTender?

  • Fully cloud based or On-Premise versions
  • Powerful, flexible design tools with compliance-ready templates. 

  • Centralised management for multi-site consistency. 

  • Integration with back-office systems for automated workflows. 

  • Supports standard and advanced barcodes, RFID and legal requirements.

  • Range of cost options

Get a free 30-day BarTender trial

Click this link and download a fully-featured 30 day trial or speak to one of our experts to find the right BarTender edition for your business.

How to Clean and Maintain Your Label Printer (Simple Guide)

Close-up of the inside of a thermal label printer showing visible dust build-up on the rollers and components, highlighting the need for routine cleaning and maintenance.

How to Clean and Maintain Your Label Printer (Simple Guide)

Label printers play a vital role in many workplaces from shipping and logistics to manufacturing, retail, and healthcare. Whether you’re using a desktop inkjet model or a heavy-duty thermal printer, regular maintenance is key to keeping your labels clear, your operations smooth, and your costs low.

Ignoring cleaning tasks can lead to poor print quality, jams, downtime, and even damage to critical components like the print head or roller. The good news is that most of these problems are easy to avoid with just a bit of routine care.

*no email required.

Why Regular Maintenance Matters

Over time, dust, adhesive residue, and bits of label material can build up inside your printer. This can cause:

  • Faded, blurry or patchy printing
  • Crooked labels or misfeeds
  • Unreadable barcodes
  • Increased wear on printer parts
  • Unexpected downtime and repairs

Taking just a few minutes each week to clean your printer can keep it running like new and extend its life.

What to Clean (and How Often)

1. Print Head

For thermal printers, the print head is the component that applies heat to the label surface. Dirt or adhesive can build up and reduce print quality.

  • Turn off the printer and unplug it.
  • Use isopropyl alcohol (90%+) and a lint-free cloth or cleaning pen.
  • Gently wipe the print head never scrape it.

Clean every time you change the label roll or at least weekly in busy environments.

2. Feed or Platen Roller

This rubber roller feeds labels through the printer. When dirty, it can cause slipping or jams.

  • Clean with a lint-free cloth and isopropyl alcohol.
  • Rotate the roller to clean the entire surface.
  • Avoid using sharp tools.

Clean weekly or more often in dusty areas.

3. Sensors and Guides

Sensors help detect label size and gaps. Debris can confuse them and cause feed errors.

  • Use a soft brush or canned air to gently remove dust.
  • Wipe the guides and internal areas with a dry cloth.

Clean every few weeks or when you notice issues with alignment.

4. Exterior and Label Path

Keeping the outside clean helps stop dust from entering the printer.

  • Wipe down with a soft, damp cloth.
  • Check the label path for bits of adhesive or label backing.

Clean as needed or during scheduled checks.

Extra Tips

  • Always use good quality labels and ribbons to reduce build-up.
  • Store media in a dry, dust-free space.
  • Train your team on basic cleaning steps.

Book Your Free Printer Review

Need help getting started with printer maintenance?

Book a free 15-minute Printer and Label Resilience Review. We’ll help you spot risks, improve reliability, and keep your printers working at their best.

Useful Links:

Thermal Transfer Cartridge Printers.

https://expertlabels.co.uk/news/thermal-transfer-cartridge-printers/

Last Updated: January 6, 2026

Bartender Allergen Hack

Bartender Allergen Hack

Are you struggling to design labels that meet the EU’s Food Information Regulations?  Is the need to highlight potential allergens giving you a headache?  World leading label design software, BarTender by Seagull Scientific has a handy hack that will mean your list of ingredients can be created easily and automatically with the allergen’s in bold.  Read on to find out how.

The EU’s Food Information for Consumers Regulation states:

“The allergenic ingredients need to be emphasised using a typeset that clearly distinguishes it from the rest of the ingredients, for example by means of the font, style or background colour. Food businesses can choose what method they want to use to emphasise the 14 allergens on their product label.”

That’s simple enough when you’ve got a few labels to print – but how do you do it when you’ve hundreds of label designs?

How to design labels with Allergen’s highlighted

Download the step by step instructions

Download the files you need

Useful links

What needs to appear on a food label

UK Government Food Labelling regulations.

Over printing services

Materials Used in High-Temperature Labels

Materials Used in High-Temperature Labels

High-temperature labels are essential in industries where standard labelling materials would degrade, melt or lose adhesion due to heat.

These specialist labels are designed to remain intact and readable even when exposed to extreme temperatures, making them critical in sectors such as electronics manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, metal processing and sterilisation environments.

The materials used in these labels are carefully selected to withstand both direct heat and the stresses that come with high-temperature operations.

1. Substrate Materials

The most important component of a high-temperature label is the substrate. This is the base material onto which print is applied. Common materials include:

Polyimide: Known for its excellent thermal stability. Polyimide films (such as Kapton®) are widely used in electronics manufacturing, especially during the soldering process. They can withstand temperatures up to around 350°C and even higher for short bursts. Polyimide also resists chemicals, abrasion and UV exposure, making it ideal for harsh environments.

Polyester (PET): While not as heat resistant as polyimide, treated polyester labels can endure temperatures of up to 150–250°C, depending on the formulation. They are more cost-effective and suitable for less extreme applications such as autoclave sterilisation or low-heat industrial processes.

Aluminium Foil: Labels made with an aluminium base and coated with an inorganic top layer can endure temperatures of 500–600°C. These are often used in metal processing or aerospace settings where heat exposure is intense and prolonged.

Ceramic-Coated Films: In highly specialised cases, ceramic-coated polymer films can withstand extreme temperatures of up to 1250°C. These are used in environments like furnaces or high-heat testing chambers.

2. Adhesives

Even the best label substrate is useless without a suitable adhesive. In high-temperature environments, the adhesive must bond firmly to surfaces without degrading.

Silicone Adhesives: Silicone is the most common choice for high-heat applications. It performs well at elevated temperatures and maintains adhesion over time, even after repeated heating and cooling cycles.

Acrylic Adhesives: High-performance acrylic adhesives can also withstand elevated temperatures (up to around 200°C), especially when enhanced with heat stabilisers. They offer a good balance of performance and affordability in moderate heat settings.

3. Top Coats and Print Compatibility

Many high-temperature labels come with a specially treated topcoat that allows for thermal transfer printing. This method uses heat and a resin-based ribbon to print durable information onto the label. Resin ribbons are required to ensure the print itself doesn’t degrade under high heat.

Conclusion

Choosing the right materials for high-temperature labels depends on the specific application and exposure conditions. Polyimide offers high heat resistance for electronics, while polyester is suitable for lower temperature needs. Aluminium and ceramic-coated labels serve ultra-high heat applications. Paired with the right adhesive and print method, these materials ensure labels remain legible and firmly attached, even under the toughest conditions.

Polyimide

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polyimide

Last Updated: November 7, 2025

What We’ve Learned About Label Adhesives in Extreme Conditions

Labels That Stick, No Matter What: What We've Learned In today's busy world, knowing what's what and where it is is super important. But what happens when your labels have to deal with high/freezing temperatures, nasty chemicals, constant water, or even rough rubbing? Regular sticky labels just won't cut it. This is where special label adhesive comes in, designed to handle the toughest conditions. At Expert Labels, we've spent many years learning all about glues. We've figured out what makes a label stick, even under extreme conditions. Our main goal isn't just to make it stick, but to make sure it stays in place and readable for a long period of time. This protects important info, keeps things safe, and keeps your brand looking good, no matter the challenge. The Big Problem: Sticking in Tough Spots A label's adhesive needs to create a strong bond between the label and the surface it's on. In a normal office, that's usually easy. But add these things, and it gets tricky: Extreme Temperatures: Think of freezers as cold as the North Pole (-196°C) or ovens hot enough to bake bricks (>200°C). Big temperature changes can make glue crack and fall off, or get soft and gooey. Chemicals: Strong cleaners, acids, or oils can break down the glue, wash away the ink, and make your label impossible to read. In the UK, labels on chemical containers shipped by sea have to meet tough rules (like BS 5609) to stay readable. Water and Wetness: Being constantly wet, having water drip on them, or even being dunked in liquid can make some glues weak, causing labels to peel off. Rubbing and Wear: If labels are rubbed a lot, hit often, or left outside in the wind and rain, they can wear down and the glue can fail. Sunlight (UV rays): Too much sun can break down the glue over time, making it turn yellow, become brittle, and lose its stick. Difficult Surfaces: Some plastics or rough surfaces are hard to stick to. You need special glues that can spread out and grab on properly. Our Discoveries: What Makes Labels Stick in Extremes Through lots of testing and real-world use, we've found special glues that work best in extreme conditions: 1. Beyond "Permanent": Super Strong Acrylic Glues: Most glues say "permanent," but for truly tough conditions, we use special acrylic-based glues. They're great because they are: Versatile: They can stick to many different surfaces, even those tricky plastics, painted metals, and bumpy surfaces. Weatherproof: They naturally fight off sun damage, water, and many common chemicals. Perfect for outdoor use or places where chemicals might splash. Temperature Ready: They're made to keep their strong stick across a huge range of temperatures. 2. Special Glues for Specific Temperatures: There's no one-size-fits-all glue for extreme heat or cold. We've learned to match the glue to the temperature: High-Heat Glues: These glues have special chemicals that stop them from getting soft, oozing, or burning at very high temperatures. For example, you'll find these on labels used in electronics factories, as they go through hot ovens. Super Cold (Cryogenic) Glues: These glues need to be super flexible so they don't snap in extreme cold. They're designed to stick right away to frozen things and handle freezing and thawing many times. Essential for labs and medical research. 3. Chemical Resistance: It's a Team Effort: Making a label resist chemicals isn't just about the glue. It's about using multiple layers: Tough Label Materials: Materials like polyester or vinyl are naturally good at resisting chemicals. Strong Acrylic Glues: These glues form a powerful bond that chemicals struggle to get through. Protective Coatings: Adding clear top layers or laminates creates an extra shield, protecting both the printing and the glue from chemicals and rubbing. We have performed thorough testing with specific chemicals to make sure they work. 4. The Hidden Secret: How You Prepare the Surface: Even the best glue can fail if the surface isn't ready. Surface Match: It's vital to understand how "sticky" (or non-sticky) a surface is. Glues are made to spread out well on different types of surfaces. Cleanliness is Key: Dirt, oil, and moisture are glue killers. Cleaning the surface properly is the first step for a strong bond. Right Pressure: Pushing down firmly and evenly when applying the label helps the glue grab on fully, helping make the strongest bond possible. What This Means for Your Business Our constant learning about label glues in tough conditions means we can offer solid solutions for your hardest labelling problems. Whether you're tracking equipment in a busy UK factory, identifying samples in a super-cold lab, or labelling products that live outside in the British weather, knowing these things makes sure your labels always do their job. Don't let your labels be the weak spot when things get tough.

What We’ve Learned About Label Adhesives in Extreme Conditions

In today’s busy world, knowing what’s what and where it is is super important. But what happens when your labels have to deal with high/freezing temperatures, nasty chemicals, constant water, or even rough rubbing?

Regular sticky labels just won’t cut it. This is where special label adhesive comes in, designed to handle the toughest conditions.

At Expert Labels, we’ve spent many years learning all about glues. We’ve figured out what makes a label stick, even under extreme conditions.

Our main goal isn’t just to make it stick, but to make sure it stays in place and readable for a long period of time. This protects important info, keeps things safe, and keeps your brand looking good, no matter the challenge.

The Big Problem: Sticking in Tough Spots

A label’s adhesive needs to create a strong bond between the label and the surface it’s on. In a normal office, that’s usually easy. But add these things, and it gets tricky:

  • Extreme Temperatures: Think of freezers as cold as the North Pole (-196°C) or ovens hot enough to bake bricks (>200°C). Big temperature changes can make glue crack and fall off, or get soft and gooey.
  • Chemicals: Strong cleaners, acids, or oils can break down the glue, wash away the ink, and make your label impossible to read. In the UK, labels on chemical containers shipped by sea have to meet tough rules (like BS 5609) to stay readable.
  • Water and Wetness: Being constantly wet, having water drip on them, or even being dunked in liquid can make some glues weak, causing labels to peel off.
  • Rubbing and Wear: If labels are rubbed a lot, hit often, or left outside in the wind and rain, they can wear down and the glue can fail.
  • Sunlight (UV rays): Too much sun can break down the glue over time, making it turn yellow, become brittle, and lose its stick.
  • Difficult Surfaces: Some plastics or rough surfaces are hard to stick to. You need special glues that can spread out and grab on properly.

Our Discoveries: What Makes Labels Stick in Extremes

Through lots of testing and real-world use, we’ve found special glues that work best in extreme conditions:
adhesive
  1. Beyond “Permanent”: Super Strong Acrylic Glues: Most glues say “permanent,” but for truly tough conditions, we use special acrylic-based glues. They’re great because they are:

      • Versatile: They can stick to many different surfaces, even those tricky plastics, painted metals, and bumpy surfaces.
      • Weatherproof: They naturally fight off sun damage, water, and many common chemicals. Perfect for outdoor use or places where chemicals might splash.
      • Temperature Ready: They’re made to keep their strong stick across a huge range of temperatures.
  2. Special Glues for Specific Temperatures: There’s no one-size-fits-all glue for extreme heat or cold. We’ve learned to match the glue to the temperature:

      • High-Heat Glues: These glues have special chemicals that stop them from getting soft, oozing, or burning at very high temperatures. For example, you’ll find these on labels used in electronics factories, as they go through hot ovens.
      • Super Cold (Cryogenic) Glues: These glues need to be super flexible so they don’t snap in extreme cold. They’re designed to stick right away to frozen things and handle freezing and thawing many times. Essential for labs and medical research.
  3. Chemical Resistance: It’s a Team Effort: Making a label resist chemicals isn’t just about the glue. It’s about using multiple layers:

      • Tough Label Materials: Materials like polyester or vinyl are naturally good at resisting chemicals.
      • Strong Acrylic Glues: These glues form a powerful bond that chemicals struggle to get through.
      • Protective Coatings: Adding clear top layers or laminates creates an extra shield, protecting both the printing and the glue from chemicals and rubbing. We have performed thorough testing with specific chemicals to make sure they work.
  4. The Hidden Secret: How You Prepare the Surface: Even the best glue can fail if the surface isn’t ready.

      • Surface Match: It’s vital to understand how “sticky” (or non-sticky) a surface is. Glues are made to spread out well on different types of surfaces.
      • Cleanliness is Key: Dirt, oil, and moisture are glue killers. Cleaning the surface properly is the first step for a strong bond.
      • Right Pressure: Pushing down firmly and evenly when applying the label helps the glue grab on fully, helping make the strongest bond possible.

What This Means for Your Business

Our constant learning about label glues in tough conditions means we can offer solid solutions for your hardest labelling problems. Whether you’re tracking equipment in a busy UK factory, identifying samples in a super-cold lab, or labelling products that live outside in the British weather, knowing these things makes sure your labels always do their job.

Don’t let your labels be the weak spot when things get tough.

GOV.UK – Product Labelling Guidance

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/product-labelling-the-law

 

Last Updated: October 1, 2025

Mistakes Businesses Make Integrating Label Printing Software

A close-up, eye-level shot shows a person's hand pressing a touchscreen on a Zebra ZT411 industrial printer. The printer's screen displays a message that reads, "Head Open: Printhead is open. Close the printhead." A label with a barcode and the text "Expert Labels" is visible on the printer's output tray.

Mistakes Businesses Make Integrating Label Printing Software

Label printing software can help make your business run more smoothly, improve accuracy, and save time. But many businesses face problems when they try to integrate this software into their systems. These issues can lead to mistakes, delays, and even legal problems. By learning from these common mistakes, businesses can make sure their software integration goes well.

1. Not Checking if the Software Works with Your Systems

A common problem is failing to check if the label printing software is fully compatible with the current systems, like your Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) or Warehouse Management Systems (WMS). If the software doesn’t work well with your current setup, it can cause data errors and printing mistakes, slowing everything down.

Before choosing software, check if it works well with your current systems. Test it out first, or be ready to make changes to your other systems if needed. Doing this early will help avoid problems later.

2. Not Training Staff Properly

A gray and black label printer displays a bright red screen with the word "ERROR" in large white letters. The device appears to be malfunctioning, highlighting a common issue that can arise from improper software integration.

Even the best label printing software won’t perform well if your staff don’t know how to use it properly. Without the right training, workers might make mistakes, like choosing the wrong settings or entering incorrect information, leading to wrong labels or delays.

Make sure all your staff are properly trained on the software. Training should cover everything from basic use to how to fix common issues. 

Regular refreshers and extra support will help them stay up-to-date and confident.

3. Not Testing Enough Before Going Live

A big mistake is launching the software without fully testing it first. If it’s not properly tested, you may miss problems like labels printing wrong, barcodes not scanning, or the software not working as expected.

Always test the software before it goes live. Use real product data and print labels on different materials to make sure everything works.

Testing helps to identify the problems early so they can be fixed before causing bigger issues.

Pharma companies are good at this.  They have comprehensive validation processes.  They document what needs to be tested then run through a script documenting the results.  Think that might help you?  We do that for clients.  Contact us for help.

4. Not Planning for Future Growth

As your business grows, so will your labelling needs. Some businesses choose software without thinking about how it will handle more products or increased production.

This can slow down production and cause extra costs when your needs change.

Pick software that can grow with your business. Look for solutions that are easy to upgrade and add new features when needed.

Cloud based software is often a good option for businesses that need flexibility and scalability.

5. Forgetting About Regulatory Compliance

If you work in industries like food, pharmaceuticals and/or chemicals; following the rules for labelling is very important. Not ensuring that your label printing software meets legal requirements can lead to fines, product recalls, and damage to your business.

Make sure your software meets all the necessary regulations, like EU CLP (Classification, Labelling and Packaging) rules or FDA standards. The software should help you create labels that include the correct symbols, warnings, and codes.

Conclusion

Integrating label printing software into your business can make things easier and more efficient. But to get it right, avoid common mistakes like ignoring compatibility, skipping training, or not checking for compliance. By planning carefully and using the right tools, you can improve your processes, reduce errors, and save time.

To make your label printing integration as smooth as possible, download our free checklist or get in touch with us. Proper planning now can save you time and trouble in the future.

Updated on September 23, 2025

Useful Links:

GOV.UK – Product Labelling Guidance

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/product-labelling-the-law

Common Mistakes When Choosing Labels for High-Abrasion Surfaces

Cloudwater Soda green tea label on a textured, peeling surface — illustrating potential mistakes when selecting labels for high-abrasion surfaces.

Common Mistakes When Choosing Labels for High-Abrasion Surfaces

Choosing the right labels for surfaces that wear down quickly is important to ensure they stay readable and last longer. Labels used on rough surfaces, like industrial machines or outdoor equipment, face constant wear and tear. Many businesses make common mistakes that can lead to labels peeling off, fading, or becoming unreadable.

In this article, we’ll go through these mistakes and offer simple solutions.

1. Choosing the Wrong Adhesive

One of the biggest mistakes is picking the wrong adhesive for rough or uneven surfaces. Standard adhesives might not stick properly, causing labels to peel off or fail under pressure.

Use stronger, industrial-grade adhesives that are designed for tough surfaces. Rubber-based adhesives or acrylic adhesives are great for high-wear areas because they have a better stick and stay in place longer, even on rough or uneven surfaces.

2. Not Cleaning the Surface Properly

Another common mistake is applying labels to dirty or oily surfaces. Dirt, oil, and other substances can stop the label from sticking properly, causing it to come off too soon.

Before applying labels, make sure to clean the surface thoroughly. Use the right cleaning solution to remove dirt, oil, or grease, and allow the surface to dry completely.

3. Ignoring Environmental Factors

Environmental conditions like sunlight, moisture, or extreme temperatures can damage labels over time. Labels that aren’t designed for these conditions might fade, peel, or become unreadable.

Choose labels that are made for the environment they will be in. If labels are going to be outside, use UV-resistant labels. 

For wet or chemical environments, waterproof and chemical-resistant labels are necessary. Laminated labels can also provide extra protection against wear and tear.

4. Skipping Tests Before Full Use

One mistake businesses often make is not testing labels before using them. Labels might work in early tests but fail under real conditions.

Testing in real-world conditions will help you spot any problems early, so you can fix them before they become a bigger issue.

5. Choosing Looks Over Durability

Sometimes, businesses focus too much on how the label looks and forget about how durable it needs to be. Labels that look good but aren’t tough enough won’t last on high-wear surfaces.

While labels should look good, make sure they are made from durable materials that can handle the rough conditions they may face. The label’s function should always come before its appearance when it comes to high-abrasion surfaces.

Conclusion

Choosing the right labels for high-abrasion surfaces is essential for keeping labels readable and in place over time. By avoiding mistakes like using the wrong adhesive, not cleaning the surface properly, ignoring environmental conditions, skipping tests, and prioritising looks over durability, you can make sure your labels last longer and perform better.

If you’re unsure which labels to use, we’re here to help! Contact us today for a consultation or to test our labels in your specific conditions.

 

Updated on August 27, 2025

Useful Links:

GOV.UK – Product Labelling Guidance

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/product-labelling-the-law

Last Updated: 1st July 2025

5 Key Lessons Learned from Label Printing Failures

A smudged and partially illegible product label from Expert Labels Ltd., affixed to a metallic surface, showing faded print and black streak marks.

5 Key Lessons Learned from Label Printing Failures

Let’s be honest – label printing might seem straightforward, but when it goes wrong, it can be a proper headache. Whether you’re a small business or a big brand, avoiding mistakes can save you time, money, and a fair bit of stress. Here are five lessons we’ve picked up (sometimes the hard way!) that’ll help you steer clear of common label printing blunders.

1. Clear Specifications Are Essential

One of the biggest mistakes in label printing is not having clear instructions. If you don’t specify details like size, material, or design clearly from the start, you may end up with labels that don’t meet your needs.

Lesson: Be crystal clear. Write it all down – the finer the detail, the better. A little extra time upfront saves a lot of back-and-forth later.

2. Always Test Before Printing in Bulk

Three clothing labels showing multiple print errors including misspelled words (“Meshanies,” “Machanies,” “Overahirt”), inconsistent pricing, jumbled product codes, and garbled fonts—highlighting common label printing failures.

It might be tempting to go full steam ahead, but jumping straight into a big print job without a test is a classic mistake. What looks fab on your computer might look completely different in real life – colours, spacing, or even the feel of the material.

Lesson: Always, always ask for a sample proof before printing in bulk. It’s a small step that can save you a right mess down the line.

3. Consistency Matters

There’s nothing more frustrating than labels that look slightly “off” – one batch’s colour doesn’t match the next, or the font’s just a bit different. It chips away at your brand’s credibility.

Lesson: Work with printers who know what they’re doing and have systems in place to keep everything uniform. Always double-check before giving the final go-ahead.

4. Choose the Right Vendor

Not all printers are created equal. Some might be brilliant at business cards but totally clueless about waterproof product labels. Picking the wrong vendor can mean missed deadlines and subpar results.

Lesson: Do your homework. Look at their previous work, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to walk away if it doesn’t feel right. A good printer is worth their weight in gold.

5. Plan for Extra Costs

Ah, the classic “surprise” charges – extra fees for last-minute tweaks, premium materials, or delivery costs that weren’t mentioned. It all adds up, and fast.

Lesson: Build a budget with wiggle room. Ask for a full breakdown of costs upfront, so nothing catches you off guard. Better safe than skint!

6. Ignoring Country-Specific Requirements

Each country may have unique requirements around symbols, language, warnings, and layouts.

Always research local labelling laws before exporting or distributing. One label does not fit all markets.

By keeping these lessons in mind, you can avoid common label printing mistakes and ensure a smoother, more successful project.

Thinking about printing your own labels?

Why not start with a sample? See the quality for yourself – we’re here to make sure your labels look spot-on from the first print to the last.

Useful Links:

GOV.UK – Product Labelling Guidance

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/product-labelling-the-law

Last Updated: 1st July 2025

Labelling Regulations: A Comprehensive Overview for Pharma

Close-up of a pharmaceutical label warning text with small font and highlighter marks.

Labelling Regulations: A Comprehensive Overview for Pharma

One Label. One Mistake. One Disaster.

In the world of medical and pharmaceutical products, a simple labelling error isn’t just a typo, it can mean product recalls, regulatory fines, or even patient harm. Whether you’re printing dosage details or managing multi-country packaging, compliance isn’t optional; it’s critical.

1. Incomplete or Incorrect Information

Regulators like the MHRA require accurate details on medication strength, dosage, ingredients, storage conditions, and expiry dates. Errors here are not just non-compliant, they can harm patients.

Always cross-check against approved product information and regularly review your templates to match current regulations.

2. Non-Readable or Poor-Quality Printing

Person squinting to read a label with very small or faded text.

Small fonts, smudged text, or low-contrast colours can render labels unreadable, especially for vulnerable patients.

Use high-contrast colours, legible fonts, and test your labels for readability under different lighting and angles. Don’t forget elderly or visually impaired users.

3. Language and Translation Errors

In global markets, translations must be precise. One mistranslated word can mislead or breach local rules.

Use certified medical translators and run translations through quality assurance systems.

4. Lack of Batch and Serial Numbers

This is critical for tracking and recalls. Some companies skip it to save space or costs, but it’s a big mistake.

Ensure batch numbers, manufacturing dates, and serial numbers are clearly displayed and scannable.

5. Outdated Regulatory Knowledge

Labelling regulations change often. Failing to stay up to date can make your labels non-compliant.
Subscribe to updates from the MHRA and international authorities like the FDA and EMA. Regular audits help too.

6. Ignoring Country-Specific Requirements

Each country may have unique requirements around symbols, language, warnings, and layouts.

Always research local labelling laws before exporting or distributing. One label does not fit all markets.

7. Over-Reliance on Automation Without Checks

Automated labelling software is useful, but it’s not foolproof. Software malfunctions or data mapping errors can introduce risk.

Always include human review as part of your labelling process.

Avoiding labelling pitfalls isn’t just about following rules; it’s about protecting your brand, your business, and the people who rely on your products.

At Expert labels, we specialise in helping medical and pharmaceutical organisations create fully compliant, accurate, and accessible labels. From regulatory advice to label design, proofreading, and translation support, we offer tailored solutions that meet MHRA, EU, and global standards.

Do you need help reviewing your current labels? We make sure your labelling is safe, compliant, and audit-ready.

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