Spoiler: it's easier than you think.
Water-activated tape (WAT) or gummed packing tape sounds fancy, but using it is genuinely simple. Here's all you need to know.
What you'll need
- Your roll of NOYO packing tape
- A pair of scissors
- Water — a sponge, spray bottle, or a WAT dispenser all work great
[related-product-1]
Step-by-step
Step 1: Cut your tape Measure and cut the length you need. One strip across the seam of your box is usually all it takes.
Step 2: Wet the sticky side Lightly dampen the adhesive side with a wet sponge, spray bottle, or water-activated tape dispenser. You don't need to soak it — a quick, even pass is enough.
Step 3: Press and smooth Lay the tape firmly over the box seam and smooth it out with your fingers. Press down along the edges to make sure it bonds properly.
Step 4: Let it set Give it a few seconds to dry. That's it — you're done.
💡 Pro tip: One strip is usually enough for most boxes. For heavier parcels (up to 10 lbs), add a smaller strip on each side for extra security.
Does water activated tape work better than regular tape?
Unlike plastic tape that just sits on top of your box, water-activated tape bonds directly into the cardboard fibers. Once it's dry, it creates a tamper-evident seal that's nearly impossible to peel off cleanly, which means your packages stay safe, and your customers notice the difference.
Do I need a special dispenser for water activated tape?
Nope! A sponge or spray bottle works perfectly fine. But if you're packing a high volume of orders every day, a WAT or gummed tape dispenser is a game-changer. It cuts and wets the tape in one motion. Worth it once you're shipping at scale.
Is it recyclable?
100% yes. Our tape is made from paper with a starch-based adhesive. That means no plastic, no synthetic glue. It's fully curbside recyclable right along with your cardboard box. No need to remove it before recycling. 🌱
Strong seal. Beautiful design. Zero plastic. The upgrade your packaging's been waiting for. Shop NOYO today.
){kind=link}