Water Activated Paper Tape
Water Activated Paper Tape: Secure and Reliable Carton Sealing
Water activated paper tape is a professional-grade, secure tape commonly used for sealing cartons. It features a paper backing coated with a water-activated adhesive. When wet, the adhesive transforms into a tacky fluid that bonds securely to the carton surface.
Key Features:
- Tamper-Evident: Discourages theft by providing a tamper-evident seal.
- Durable: Strong and reliable, it withstands dusty, cold, hot, and humid environments.
Water Activated Paper Tape (WAT): What it is, why it’s better, and how to use it
Water activated paper tape—often called gummed tape—creates a fibre-tearing, tamper-evident seal that standard plastic tape simply can’t match. It’s made from kraft paper with a starch-based adhesive that’s moistened as you apply it, bonding with the carton fibres for a clean, secure finish. As a bonus, it’s curbside-recyclable with the box.
How it works
The adhesive activates with a light film of water, then wicks into the carton’s surface. Once set, any attempt to lift or re-seal is obvious—great for loss prevention, returns processing, and customer confidence.
Why teams switch to WAT
- Security you can see: Fibre-tear seal shows tampering instantly.
- Cleaner workflow: One strip usually does it—no layering, no noisy tape guns.
- Professional presentation: Flat, neat seals that elevate your unboxing experience.
- Eco-smart choice: Paper tape and cardboard can be recycled together.
- Better ergonomics: With a dispenser, operators cut exact lengths and avoid repetitive strain.
Reinforced vs non-reinforced
Reinforced (fibreglass)
Extra strength for heavier cartons, export shipments, or high-risk lanes. Resists splitting under stress and stacking.
Non-reinforced
Ideal for standard weight cartons and everyday eCommerce. Great seal quality with lower material cost.
How to apply (and speed it up)
- Use a WAT dispenser (manual or electronic) to moisten and cut to length.
- Apply to clean, dust-free carton surfaces; wipe down firmly for full fibre bond.
- For heavy cartons, use an H-seal (one long strip over the centre + two short side seams).
Electronic dispensers shine on busy lines—pre-set lengths, consistent moisture, and faster throughput with less waste.
Good fits & use cases
- eCommerce & retail: Tamper-evident shipping and premium unboxing.
- Industrial & distribution: Heavy or bulky cartons that need a single, reliable seal.
- Picture framing / art handling: Clean removal on framed work; no messy residues.
Not sure which width or grade suits your cartons? Ask our team for a quick recommendation.