I am often asked what is the best way to peel wine labels off of bottles. I prefer to use Label-Savers™, by the Wine Enthusiast. These nifty 5” x 6” laminating films can tackle most labels. They come in a 10 pack at a price point under $10. Here is a guide on how to use them:
You’ll Need
- Label-Savers™
- a felt tip marker
- a hard smooth object such as a drivers license (I use a hard squeegee made for laying vinyl graphics)
- a straight razor (optional).
Before you begin, wipe the label with a dry cloth to remove any dust. Keep in mind while you are pouring the wine that bottles tend to drip, so try to keep your label clean as you enjoy your wine.
Step 1. If you are not sticking the label to something right away, e.g. a scrapbook or album, I suggest marking the back of the paper side of the label.
Step 2. Peel the large section of the paper backer from the label. It is usually not necessary to peel the small section of the backer unless you have a large label.
Step 3. Center the Label-Saver™ over the label and stick just the center area down. One reason I like the hard squeegee is that the bottle can rest on it while you apply the Label-Saver™ to the bottle; I always do this to keep the bottle from rolling away.
Step 4. Pick up the bottle and use the squeegee to burnish (rub) the Label-Saver™ starting in the center and pushing out toward the sides. This will reduce the amount of bubbles and creases. Once that is done burnish the label from different angles to ensure even adhesion around the label.
Step 5. Starting with one of the sides SLOWLY begin peeling the Label-Saver™. If the label is not coming off with the Label-Saver™ you should stop, burnish the area more, and try again. Many paper labels will separate from there adhesive leaving the back (usually white) portion of the label on the bottle. This is normal.
Step 5a. Labels like plastic, textured, or stubborn ones may require the straight razor. BE CAREFUL! Peel back the Label-Saver™ until the edge of the label is uncovered. Slowly and carefully slide the tip of the blade under the label along the length of the edge. Remove the razor; burnish the Label-Saver™ over the area you just loosened, and try to peel the label again. Repeat until the label starts to lift.
Step 6. Congratulations! The label is now ready to go wherever you want. If you don’t have a place to stick it you can reapply the original paper backer onto the Label-Saver™ and wait until you decide what to do with it.
I have successfully peeled over 100 wine and liquor bottle labels with this method. PATIENCE IS THE MOST IMPORTANT PART OF THIS PROCESS!
