Why Are My Barcode Labels Fading? 5 Causes and How to Fix Them

12th Mar 2025

Barcodes are essential for smooth business operations, ensuring accurate inventory tracking, seamless checkout processes, and effective supply chain management. However, barcode labels can fade over time, leading to scanning errors and operational disruptions. If you've noticed your labels losing clarity, it's crucial to understand the reasons behind it and find effective solutions.

1. Poor Print Quality

One of the primary causes of fading barcode labels is low-quality printing. Using an outdated or subpar color label printer may result in weak ink adhesion, causing the barcode to fade faster than expected.

Solution: Upgrade to a high-quality color label printer that produces crisp, durable labels. Devices like the Epson ColorWorks C4000 label printer ensure sharp barcodes that remain scannable for longer. If you're using an affordable color label printer, ensure it's properly calibrated for optimal print density. Also, check if your printer heads are clean and functioning correctly, as clogged or worn-out printheads can lead to inconsistent ink distribution and fading labels.

2. Inferior Label Materials

Labels made from poor-quality materials degrade quickly, especially in demanding environments. Low-grade paper or improperly coated labels can fade due to exposure to moisture, heat, or friction.

Solution: Invest in premium labels designed for longevity. Pairing high-quality labels with a color inkjet label printer ensures better durability. If you're using an Epson C6500 printer, choose Epson C6500 labels to guarantee strong adhesion and resistance to environmental factors. Consider laminated labels for extra durability, especially in harsh work environments where friction and exposure to elements are frequent issues.

3. Exposure to Heat, Sunlight, or Chemicals

Environmental conditions can significantly impact label longevity. Direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and exposure to chemicals can cause labels to fade prematurely.

Solu: If your business operates in tough environments like warehouses or outdoor settings, use a thermal transfer label printer with glossy polyester labels or GHS BS5609-compliant chemical labels for durability. For chemical-resistant labels, consider a pigment inkjet color label printer like Epson ColorWorks. Storing labels in a cool, dry place helps maintain readability over time.

4. Incorrect Printer Settings or Ribbons

If your barcode labels fade quickly, incorrect printer settings or low-quality ink ribbons might be the culprit. Some barcode printers for sale come with preset configurations that may not be ideal for your specific needs.

Solution: Adjust your printer's darkness and contrast settings to achieve the optimal print density. If you're using a color sticker printer machine, ensure it's loaded with the correct Epson C3500 ink or Epson C7500g ink for long-lasting results. If using a thermal printer, always select the right ribbon type for the material being printed on. Running test prints before finalizing label production can help you detect and correct any issues early.

Person holding a black package

5. Frequent Handling and Friction

Barcode labels used on frequently handled items, such as retail products or shipping packages, experience constant friction. This leads to smudging and eventual fading.

Solution:

For high-contact applications, a thermal transfer label printer with a wax/resin or resin ribbon and synthetic labels like polyester or polypropylene provides strong, long-lasting labels. This ensures better durability with strong adhesives and protective coatings, perfect for tough environments.

Keep Your Barcode Labels Sharp and Long-Lasting with OmegaBrand

At OmegaBrand Sales Corporation, we help businesses across the USA and Canada add color to their legacy barcode labels with advanced solutions like the Epson ColorWorks line of printers. Whether you need a full-color label printer or a 4x6 shipping label printer, we have the expertise to provide the right barcode printing solutions for your industry.

Don't let fading barcodes slow down your business.

#Barcode Labels Fading