Gummed Envelopes Vs Self Seal Envelopes

What You Should Know about the Different Types of Envelope Seals?

We have gotten used to the sealing technique of licking or using a moistening envelope glue but if you want something different, better and more secure, let us introduce you to these other types of envelope seals. 

Gummed envelopes in Kenya are sealed by a gum called gum arabic. They are made from sap extracted from two species of Acacia trees. It is a water-soluble gum which must be moistened by licking, envelope moistener or by a mailing machine and then the envelope flap can be pressed. 

Self-seal envelopes are easy-to-use envelopes and do not need to be moistened. They come with a sticky band and a protective strip. Once you remove the protective strip and reveal the sticky band, the flap can be closed and the envelope is sealed. 

Flip and seal envelopes are often confused with self-seal. Though they both work on the same principles of adhesive bands, flip and seal have sticky tape at two locations. They are convenient as they do not need to be moistened and there’s no protective strip to remove. 

Here are some more envelope seals which are slightly less common. 

Metal Clasp gummed envelopes feature the gum seal and a reusable metal clasp with prongs. 

A button and string fastener, also known as a tie closure, uses a string which wraps around buttons located on two edges of the envelope opening. 

Snaps or hook-and-loop tape are found on plastic envelopes and use a button to secure the envelope flap.

Wax seals are an old-school technique where wax is melted over the closure so that when it is pressed on by a stamp and hardens, it forms a tough and secure seal. 

Now that you know how they work, let’s look at the advantages and disadvantages of each envelope.

1. Gummed envelopes in Kenya are the ideal choice when it comes to mailing in large quality and they can be reused by applying moistener again. They are the easiest to seal in bulk and are very cost-effective. Additionally, they are eco-friendly, sustainable and temperature resistant. They are also very strong as only one strip is required to seal and are very durable. Furthermore, they can be customised and you can have some text written on the tape. It is generally the go-to envelope seal and there aren’t many disadvantages to it. 
2. Self-seal envelopes are great to avoid complications when sending important documents and do not need to be moistened so no licking is required. But it is not exactly cheap. On top of that, they are not eco-friendly as the protective strip which is removed is not made up of sustainable materials. Lastly, they are not ideal for bulky orders. 
3. Flip and seal are eco-friendly as there is no protective waste and also there is no need to use a moistener. 
4. Metal clasp gummed envelopes are easy to use and advantageous as the gummed seal is temporary hence allowing it to be reused and it is securely closed because of the metal clasp. It is better used for larger booklets and catalogues. 
5. The button and string fastener is another popular choice for large booklets and interoffice communications. It keeps the enveloped securely. 
6. Snaps or hook and tube tape are best for storing or organising documents as they are attached to plastic and colourful envelopes. They can also be used as a decorative and functional items in offices, schools or homes.
7. Wax Seals are very fun and appealing to use as you can have your logo or initials stamped on the wax but it is time-consuming and can be opened easily hence it is recommended to keep it inside another envelope.

 How to decide on which seal to use? 

First, you should find out details about the envelope and preferable check a picture. Different suppliers sell products under different names so make sure you know exactly what you are ordering.

Second, keep the quantity in mind. As discussed earlier, to seal easily in bulk, gummed envelopes in Kenya are the best compared to other seals. 

Third, how important the document is should also be considered.  Whether you just want to store or send crucial documents to someone, the seal will keep it secure so do choose your seal according to how protected it needs to be. 

Envelope seals are a vital factor to look out for as they ensure the safety of your document. Want to know more about gummed envelopes in Kenya? Click here to see our collection.