Sticker Failures & Fixes: Why Your Stickers Peel, Discolour, or Fade, and How to Avoid It

Let’s be honest — nothing hurts more than peeling off that first fresh batch of stickers you designed and… they start bubbling, fading, or peeling just a week later.

You spent time designing them, you trusted the print — so what went wrong?

Sticker issues like peeling edges, colour changes, or fading prints happen more often than most people admit. But the good news? Almost every one of them has a fix. Here’s a breakdown of the most common sticker “fails” we’ve seen — and how to make sure they don’t happen to yours.

Problem #1: Stickers That Peel Off Too Easily

Few things are more frustrating than a sticker that refuses to stay put. You apply it carefully, smooth it out… and two days later, it’s curling up at the corners.

What causes it:

• Applying on dusty, oily, or damp surfaces (especially glass or plastic bottles)
• Using the wrong material for the surface type (e.g., paper stickers on curved or textured items)
• Temperature or humidity changes causing adhesive lift

How to fix it:

• Always clean and dry your surface before applying. Use a bit of rubbing alcohol to remove residue.
• Choose vinyl stickers if your surface is non-porous (like laptops, water bottles, or packaging).
• Apply at room temperature — too hot or cold, and the adhesive can weaken.

Pro tip: Press firmly and let the sticker “cure” for a few hours before handling. It helps the adhesive bond better.

Problem #2: Stickers That Discolour or Yellow Over Time

Ever seen a clear sticker that slowly turns beige or cloudy? That’s discolouration — and it usually happens with cheaper materials or poor UV resistance.

What causes it:

• Exposure to sunlight or heat
• Use of low-quality inks or non-laminated finishes
• Moisture trapped under the sticker

How to fix it:

• Go for UV-resistant vinyl stickers if your design will be outdoors or under sunlight.
• Add a protective laminate layer (gloss or matte) to shield the ink.
• Store unused stickers in a cool, dry place — sunlight can age them even before you use them.

At The Potato Club, we use weatherproof materials and eco-solvent inks that resist fading and yellowing — because good design deserves to stay bright.

Problem #3: Fading Colours or Dull Prints

If your sticker looked bold at first but started losing its vibrancy after a few months, fading is the culprit.

What causes it:

• Prolonged UV exposure
• Ink not suited for outdoor use
• Abrasion from handling, cleaning, or friction

How to fix it:

• Ask for UV-laminated or weatherproof vinyl if you’re planning outdoor use (cars, windows, surfboards, etc.)
• Avoid paper-based stickers for sun-exposed spots
• Keep surfaces clean but don’t use harsh chemicals over stickers — they can strip ink over time

Problem #4: Bubbles and Wrinkles After Application

Nothing ruins a good design faster than trapped air or wrinkles that won’t smooth out.

What causes it:

• Applying too quickly or without aligning properly
• Air trapped between the surface and adhesive
• Uneven pressure during application

How to fix it:

• Start applying from one side and use a card or squeegee to press out air slowly
• For large stickers, peel just a few centimetres of backing first, align, and apply gradually
• If bubbles appear later, prick a tiny hole with a needle and push the air out gently

Problem #5: Stickers Losing Stickiness

If your sticker starts to slide off after a few months, it’s probably because of moisture or cleaning chemicals breaking down the adhesive.

What causes it:

• Constant water exposure (especially in bathrooms or kitchens)
• Surfaces that flex or move frequently
• Harsh cleaning agents or alcohol-based sprays

How to fix it:

• Use waterproof vinyl stickers with strong adhesive backing for high-contact areas
• Avoid sticking on silicone, rubber, or textured plastic (these materials reject adhesive)
• Clean gently with a damp cloth, not alcohol wipes

Sticker “fails” don’t always mean poor printing — often, it’s just a mismatch between material, surface, and environment. A bit of knowledge upfront can make your stickers last months (or even years) longer.

At The Potato Club, we’ve tested thousands of materials and finishes to make sure our stickers stay put, stay bright, and stay beautiful. Whether you’re ordering for your brand, your art, or just for fun — we’ll help you pick the right sticker.