Water activated tape, also called gummed tape or water activated kraft paper tape, is a paper carton-sealing tape with a starch adhesive that is moistened in a gummed tape dispenser. Once wet, it bonds into the cardboard fibres, so the seal is tamper-evident, recyclable with the box and strong enough for heavy cartons without any plastic.
Why use water activated tape?
- Plastic-free and kerbside recyclable together with the carton.
- Bonds into the board rather than sitting on top of it, so it does not peel in cold or dusty warehouses.
- One strip seals most cartons; the reinforced grade has fibreglass threads for heavier boxes.
- Clean kraft paper look for eco-friendly and premium unboxing.
Rolls and dispensers
Plain kraft 70mm x 184m (A158, 6 rolls) and reinforced gummed 60mm x 305m (A212, 6 rolls), plus water activated tape dispensers in several colours. Shop the rolls and dispensers below.
Related: packing tape, eco friendly packaging, mailing boxes.
Water activated tape FAQs
How do you use water activated tape?
Run the tape through a gummed tape dispenser, which wets the adhesive and cuts the strip to length. Press it firmly onto the carton and the bond sets within seconds.
Is water activated tape recyclable?
Yes. The paper backing and starch adhesive go into paper recycling with the carton, so there is no plastic tape to remove.
Reinforced or plain kraft?
Plain kraft suits everyday mailing boxes and cartons. Reinforced gummed tape has fibreglass threads for heavy, large or export cartons.
New Arrival
