Are die cut stickers waterproof?

You’ve probably seen die cut stickers on water bottles, laptops, and cars, and maybe you’ve wondered if they can actually hold up to water. Some look great for months, while others smudge or peel after a single wash. So what’s the difference?

The truth is, not all die cut stickers are waterproof. It depends on the materials, the ink, and how they’re finished. Let’s break down what “waterproof” really means when it comes to stickers, how to know if the ones you’re buying are up for the job, and what to do if they’re not.

What does waterproof actually mean for stickers?

When a sticker is waterproof, it means it can come into contact with water without getting damaged. The ink won’t smudge, the colors won’t fade, and the edges won’t peel or curl. You can wash the surface it’s on, or even expose it to rain. The sticker will stay put and stay legible.

But don’t confuse waterproof with water-resistant. A water-resistant sticker may survive a few splashes but could start to break down with repeated exposure.

True waterproof stickers are built to last through all that and more, especially useful for things like water bottles, bikes, or outdoor equipment.

What makes a die cut sticker waterproof?

A die cut sticker refers to the shape, cut precisely around the design. But that shape doesn’t automatically make it waterproof. What really matters is what it’s made of and how it’s finished.

Material type

The base material is one of the biggest factors. Vinyl and BOPP (biaxially oriented polypropylene) are both waterproof and durable. They don’t absorb water and can handle outdoor use, friction, and repeated handling.

In contrast, paper stickers are not waterproof unless they’re specially treated, and even then, they won’t be as durable as plastic-based options.

Explore the materials used to make stickers..

Ink type

Even with the right material, poor-quality ink can ruin the whole sticker. Pigment-based ink is more waterproof than dye-based ink, which is common in many home printers.

Pigment ink sits on top of the material and bonds better, while dye ink tends to dissolve or bleed when exposed to moisture.

See our guide on ink technology.

Protective coating or lamination

Most waterproof die cut stickers are sealed with a laminate layer, either glossy, matte, or clear vinyl. This layer prevents water from reaching the printed design and also adds protection against scratches, sunlight, and general wear.

Some commercial printers also use UV-cured coatings, which offer strong protection without a film layer.

Adhesive strength

Waterproofing isn’t just about the surface. The adhesive on the back also matters. Stickers made for outdoor use or high-contact surfaces use permanent adhesives that don’t weaken when exposed to water. Weaker adhesives can start to lift at the edges, especially on curved or handled surfaces like bottles or helmets.

Together, these factors decide whether a die cut sticker can stand up to water—not just how it’s cut.

How to tell if the custom die cut stickers you're buying are waterproof

The easiest way to know if a die cut sticker is waterproof is to check the product details. Look for terms like “waterproof,” “weatherproof,” “vinyl,” “laminated,” or “UV-resistant.” If a listing mentions that the sticker is dishwasher safe or suitable for outdoor use, that’s a good sign too.

If the product description is vague, check customer reviews or ask the seller directly. Some sellers also include durability details, like how long the sticker lasts outdoors or whether it holds up on a water bottle.

Also, be cautious of stickers labeled just as “water-resistant.” These might survive a few splashes but likely won’t hold up to long-term exposure, especially on surfaces that get handled or washed often.

How to waterproof your own die cut stickers

Already have your die cut stickers, but not sure if they’re waterproof? Or maybe you know they’re not, and you still want to use them on a water bottle, laptop, or bike. Don’t worry. There are a few ways to add protection and help them last longer, even if they weren’t made for it.

The easiest option is laminating them. You can use self-adhesive clear laminate sheets or a cold laminator. Just place the film over your stickers before cutting them out (or after, if they’re already die cut). This creates a waterproof barrier that stops ink from smudging and protects the surface from scratches. See how to seal stickers.

If you don’t have laminate, try a clear waterproof spray sealant. A few light coats can help seal the surface and make the ink more resistant to water. Just make sure the stickers are printed on a plastic-based material; paper stickers may still absorb moisture underneath.

And finally, apply your stickers to a clean, dry surface. This helps the adhesive bond properly and adds to their water resistance.

Final thoughts

Waterproofing comes down to more than just the sticker shape. It’s all about the materials, ink, and finish. If you’re printing or buying stickers for surfaces that see water, handling, or sunlight, it’s worth paying attention to the details.

If you want to skip the guesswork, Sticker it offers professionally made die cut stickers that are truly waterproof, weatherproof, and UV resistant. You can go wild with your design, and we’ll even send you a free proof before printing.

FAQs

What makes die cut stickers different from kiss cut stickers?

The difference lies in the cut style and how the sticker is peeled. Die cut stickers are trimmed to the exact shape of your design, cutting through both the sticker and backing paper. Kiss cut stickers, on the other hand, are cut through just the sticker layer, leaving a border on the backing. They’re great for sticker sheets, while die cuts are ideal for handing out individual stickers.

Can I order custom-shaped stickers with my own artwork?

Yes! You can submit your own artwork to create custom-shaped stickers or custom-cut stickers in nearly any form. Whether you're using a logo, hand-drawn image, or graphic design, we print your design on high quality vinyl stickers using waterproof inks and laminate finishes. You’ll get excellent quality stickers with great quality colors and detail.

What’s the minimum order quantity for custom die cut stickers?

We have flexible custom quantity options, so you can order as few or as many as you need. This is perfect for personal use, events, or even a small business launch. Whether you need a single custom sticker or thousands of customized die cut stickers, you’re not locked into a high minimum order quantity.

How durable are vinyl die cut stickers?

Vinyl stickers are actually known for their durable build and good adhesion. They’re made with durable vinyl and a permanent adhesive backing, designed for outdoor use, rough handling, and long-lasting wear.

Can I get fast turnaround on custom stickers?

Yes, most sticker printing services offer fast turnaround without compromising on quality. You can upload your artwork and receive a free proof before production. This helps ensure your design is printed exactly as expected, down to the rounded corners, white ink, or even multiple designs in one batch. You can also get express shipping with Sticker it.