Reusable labware is becoming more common. Many labs are looking for ways to cut waste without disrupting their workflows, and one of the easiest places to start is with the supplies they already use every day. Washing and reusing labware has become a practical step toward a more sustainable operation. The challenge is figuring out how to label that labware so the label can be cleanly removed prior to washing.
Recently, we heard from a lab facing this exact problem. They were shifting from traditional glassware to plastic coated volumetric pieces as part of a new safety directive. Everything looked great in trials except for one unexpected snag. Their old method of writing directly on the glass no longer worked. Marker that used to wash off cleanly now stayed put.
At the same time, this team runs more than 60 different tests across over 15 products. Every piece of labware is labeled. Every label needs to be temporary. And everything gets washed in an industrial dishwasher after each use. Wiping marker off isn’t an option anymore, and the last thing they want is sticky residue from a label building up over time.
So the question became: How do you label glassware in a way that holds up during testing but still removes easily before washing?
The push for cleaner labeling
Sustainability isn’t just reducing single use labware. It’s about making sure your processes match your goals. When labs commit to reusing glassware, labeling becomes part of the equation. Identifiers need to stay put through handling and solvents but come off quickly when you’re ready to relabel.
This customer also needed a label that would not interfere with their solvents. Methanol, acetonitrile, and other chemicals are part of their daily work, so the material had to stand up to exposure without smearing or lifting.
Finding a removable label
This lab needed a reliable option that didn’t leave residue and could move smoothly through a busy lab environment. That led us to recommend a removable polyester label that checks the right boxes for reusable workflows. It prints cleanly with thermal transfer, adheres well during use, and still peels away before washing. No gummy adhesive left behind.
This label also holds up to solvents, stays readable, and tolerates the range of temperatures this team works in. Once the test is complete, the label removes cleanly so the glassware can go straight into the washer and come out ready for its next assignment.
Print on demand labeling
Along with selecting the right removable label, we also helped this lab move to a print on demand approach. Instead of relying on handwritten markings, they now print exactly what they need, when they need it. This gives them flexibility as samples change across products and test types, without creating excess waste or outdated labels.
To support this shift, we helped them upgrade their thermal transfer printer so it was properly matched to the label material, application needs, and daily throughput. The result was consistent print quality, clear barcodes, and a setup that fits naturally into their workflow rather than slowing it down.
We also supported barcode generating software that connects directly with their LIMS. This made it easier to generate accurate identifiers tied to batch, test, and analyst information, while reducing manual entry and the risk of mix ups. Together, these tools helped streamline labeling while reinforcing traceability and sustainability goals.
Validating the label
Before committing to a new labeling approach, this lab wanted to be sure the material would perform exactly as expected. Our sample process gave them a chance to validate the label in their real-world environment.
They tested how the labels applied, how they held up during handling and solvent exposure, and how cleanly they removed before washing. This step gave the team confidence that the label would not leave residue, damage the plastic-coated glassware, or create extra cleanup work. Running samples through their actual workflow helped remove uncertainty and ensured the solution would work long term.
Supporting a sustainable future
Sometimes improving sustainability doesn’t require an overhaul. It just needs the right material in the right place. For this lab, switching to a removable label removed frustration, protected their new glassware and helped them stay aligned with both safety and sustainability goals.
If your team is also rethinking how reusable glassware fits into your workflow, the right labeling solution can make everything easier. Reach out if you want help exploring options that support your sustainability plans while keeping your data clean and traceable.
Connect with our labelling experts today
Blog article form
"*" indicates required fields