Avery Removable Labels Review: Quality Tags, Flawed Software
A verified buyer summed up the practical appeal of the Avery Self-Adhesive Removable Labels, 1 x 1.5 Inches, White with a simple note: "They stay put and come off cleanly — exactly what I needed." With an aggregate rating hovering between 4.5 and 4.7 stars on Amazon, and 79% overall positive sentiment in independent reviews, this product has a solid reputation in functionality, though its associated software draws heavy criticism. On performance alone, it earns a 8/10 from consistent cross-platform praise.
Quick Verdict: Conditional — Great for labeling tasks if you stick to physical use, but online design software frustrations are a recurring deal-breaker for many.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Strong adhesion to multiple surfaces | Avery Design & Print software widely disliked |
| Removes cleanly without sticky residue | Alignment issues when printing templates |
| Durable material, works with markers | Customer service often rated poor on Trustpilot |
| Compact, versatile size for various tasks | Some misaligned print batches reported |
| Works with both inkjet and laser printers | Software now online-only, limiting offline access |
| Affordable per-label cost | Frequent complaints about clunky UI |
Claims vs Reality
Marketing suggests these labels “stick, stay, and remove cleanly without leaving a residue,” suitable for drawers, boxes, and shelves. Many users back this up: “I used the stickers on various pieces of furniture, appliances, and household goods, and not one of them has fallen off even after two weeks,” reported a customer in BestViewsReviews. A verified Amazon buyer noted that they could be repositioned without tearing, an advantage over stronger permanent adhesives.
The second claim — “easy to customize using free Avery designs and templates” — is far more contested. While Avery offers online design tools, dozens of Trustpilot users blasted the software experience. One reviewer wrote: “Garbage software. Cumbersome and buggy is an understatement.” Critics say that the removal of the offline Design Pro 5.5 tool was a step backward, forcing users into a more restrictive online-only environment.
Finally, Avery highlights compatibility with multiple surfaces and printers. This generally holds true in practice. Reports show successful adhesion on paper, cardboard, plastic, wood, glass, and metal — a Reddit user explained: “They adhere well to plastic bins and glass jars, and peel off without damage.” However, accurate printing still depends on precise template alignment, with some users noting they wasted sheets on misaligned output.
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
Strong adhesion is the top compliment. About 73% of reviewers lauded how well these labels stick yet remain removable. For teachers labeling classroom supplies, this means they can reorganize without sticky cleanup. A verified buyer explained: “When removing the sticker, there is no hassle or left behind stickiness.” Durability also wins approval — users say the labels hold ink from Sharpies without smudging, making them practical for handwritten notes.
Another point of praise is their versatile size and shape. Home organizers find the 1 x 1.5-inch format ideal for compact labeling without looking cluttered: “Perfect for price tags at my craft fair — enough space for info, small enough not to overwhelm,” shared an Etsy seller on Reddit.
Common Complaints
Software usability emerges as the loudest frustration. Sitejabber reviews detail a litany of gripes: printing misaligned, templates refusing to match physical labels, and the retirement of the popular offline program. One ex-user lamented: “It used to be easy… now nearly impossible.” Small business owners relying on custom-printed labels report wasted time wrestling with online interfaces rather than producing usable tags.
Customer service drew consistent criticism too, with phrases like “crappy customer service” and “got ignored after sending product photos”. This compounds print issues when replacements or guidance are needed.
Divisive Features
Removability splits opinion slightly. While designed for clean removal, some users found residue only if labels were left in direct sun or on textured surfaces for extended periods — contradicting official claims. Reddit feedback also shows disagreement on printer compatibility: some report flawless output from both inkjet and laser devices, while others suffer constant jams despite Avery’s proprietary “Sure Feed” technology.
Trust & Reliability
Trustpilot paints a stark picture of brand reputation when factoring in software and support. Out of 109 reviews, Avery scores just 1.4 stars, mostly due to negative software experiences rather than the physical product. Long-term durability stories from platform users are stronger — Reddit threads include reports of labels retaining adhesion and legibility after months in pantry storage.
However, repeated complaints about misaligned printing and a forced shift to online software have caused some loyal customers to defect to competitors. The gap between hardware excellence (label quality) and software frustration is the reliability paradox here.
Alternatives
Within Reddit favorites, users often compare this model (05434) to the Avery Removable 1 x 2 5/8 inch ID Labels (6460) and Houselabels HL-30334-R Dymo-compatible labels. The 6460 provides more writing space for inventory logs, while Dymo rolls cater to those who prefer dedicated label printers without template headaches. Several home crafters opt for chalkboard-style reusable labels, citing flexibility for constantly changing contents.
Staples’ matte white removable square labels also attract praise for cleaner print alignment, though they are slightly more expensive per label. Heavy-duty vinyl removables appear in discussions — they resist moisture and suit outdoor or freezer storage beyond paper’s capability.
Price & Value
The product is widely available around $7.44 to $8.75 per 500-pack, translating to roughly $0.02 per label. eBay listings show stable resale prices when unopened, suggesting decent flipping potential for surplus office stock. Community tips suggest buying in bulk during retail clearances, as these rarely spoil. However, if you intend to use Avery’s design software extensively, weigh the hidden cost in frustration and wasted prints before committing.
FAQ
Q: Do these labels leave residue when removed?
A: In most reported cases, no, they remove cleanly from smooth surfaces. Some users noted residue only when applied for very long periods or in harsh sunlight.
Q: Can I use them with both inkjet and laser printers?
A: Yes, multiple buyers confirm compatibility. However, a segment of users reported printer jams or template misalignment despite marketed compatibility.
Q: Are they reusable after removal?
A: No — adhesion drops significantly after first use. They’re intended for single-use applications despite being removable.
Q: Why do printed templates misalign?
A: Users cite flaws in Avery’s Design & Print software, especially since the retirement of older offline tools. Some recommend downloading Word-compatible templates to bypass issues.
Q: Is this product waterproof?
A: No, the paper material is not waterproof. Heavy-duty Avery labels are needed for moisture-heavy environments.
Final Verdict
Buy if you’re a home organizer, teacher, or small seller needing affordable, cleanly removable physical labels without complex printing. Avoid if your workflow depends on Avery’s current online design software — frustrations are almost guaranteed. Pro tip from community: download alternative templates and print offline for best results.
