6 Best File Folder Labels for 2026

You’ll want Avery File Folder Labels with TrueBlock Technology to easily cover old text, Avery Easy Peel Labels for smooth printing, and Assorted Color Labels to color-code your files. Matte White Printable Labels offer smudge-resistant durability, while Barkley Medical Brown Labels excel in healthcare settings. Don’t overlook Avery’s White/Red labels for high-contrast organization. Each offers permanent adhesive and printer compatibility. Considering size, durability, and color options will keep your files flawless. Keep exploring to refine your perfect system.

Our Top File Folder Label Picks

Avery File Folder Labels with TrueBlock Technology (08366) Avery File Folder Labels with TrueBlock Technology, Permanent Adhesive, 2/3" Best Coverage TechnologyLabel Size: 2/3″ x 3-7/16″Adhesive Type: Permanent adhesivePrinter Compatibility: Laser and inkjet compatibleVIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
Avery Easy Peel File Folder Labels (3 Pack) Avery Easy Peel File Folder Labels on 4" x 6" Best Multi-Pack ValueLabel Size: 2/3″ x 3-7/16″Adhesive Type: Permanent adhesivePrinter Compatibility: Inkjet and monochrome laser compatible (not color laser)VIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
Avery File Folder Labels Assorted 252 Count Avery File Folder Labels on 4" x 6" Sheets, Easy Best Color-Coding OptionLabel Size: 2/3″ x 3-7/16″Adhesive Type: Permanent adhesivePrinter Compatibility: Laser and inkjet compatible (not color laser)VIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
Matte White Printable Labels for Inkjet & Laser Printers 3 7/16" X 2/3" Matte White Printable Labels for Inkjet Best Large QuantityLabel Size: 3.4375″ x 0.67″ (approx. 2/3″ x 3-7/16″)Adhesive Type: Durable permanent adhesivePrinter Compatibility: Inkjet and laser compatibleVIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
Barkley Medical Filing Labels Brown 1×1.5 Inch Barkley Compatible Filing Medical Healthcare Labels – Brown 1 x Best Medical UseLabel Size: 1″ x 1.5″ (different size)Adhesive Type: Strong adhesivePrinter Compatibility: Not specified for printers (medical use)VIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
Avery File Folder Labels White/Red (5201) Avery File Folder Labels on 4" x 6" Sheets, Easy Best Color-Coded DesignLabel Size: 2/3″ x 3-7/16″Adhesive Type: Permanent adhesivePrinter Compatibility: Laser and inkjet compatible (not color laser)VIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis

More Details on Our Top Picks

  1. Avery File Folder Labels with TrueBlock Technology (08366)

    Avery File Folder Labels with TrueBlock Technology, Permanent Adhesive, 2/3"

    Best Coverage Technology

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    Should you need file folder labels that can cover up old text and let you reuse your folders without a hassle, Avery File Folder Labels with TrueBlock Technology (08366) are a perfect fit. Their TrueBlock technology completely hides hidden text and images, so your folders look fresh every time. You’ll appreciate the permanent adhesive that sticks firmly to paper, cardboard, and envelopes, resisting lifting and curling. These labels work with both laser and inkjet printers, plus you can write directly on them. With 750 matte white labels per pack and countless free templates online, organizing your files professionally becomes effortless.

    • Label Size:2/3″ x 3-7/16″
    • Adhesive Type:Permanent adhesive
    • Printer Compatibility:Laser and inkjet compatible
    • Quantity (Label Count):750 labels
    • Color/Appearance:Matte white
    • Intended Use / Application:File folder labeling and organization
    • Additional Feature:TrueBlock covers text/images
    • Additional Feature:Avery Sure Feed tech
    • Additional Feature:Bright white matte finish
  2. Avery Easy Peel File Folder Labels (3 Pack)

    Avery Easy Peel File Folder Labels on 4" x 6"

    Best Multi-Pack Value

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    Should you need reliable labels that stick firmly without curling, Avery Easy Peel File Folder Labels (3 Pack) are a great pick for keeping your files organized. Each pack includes 756 white labels sized 2/3″ x 3-7/16″ on 4″ x 6″ sheets, perfect for identifying your files. These labels feature permanent adhesive that resists curling and won’t fall off smooth surfaces. You can write on them using your hand or print using your personal inkjet or monochrome laser printer. Avoid color laser printers. Plus, Avery offers free templates online, helping you create professional-looking labels quickly and easily.

    • Label Size:2/3″ x 3-7/16″
    • Adhesive Type:Permanent adhesive
    • Printer Compatibility:Inkjet and monochrome laser compatible (not color laser)
    • Quantity (Label Count):756 labels (3 packs of 7 labels per sheet)
    • Color/Appearance:White
    • Intended Use / Application:File management and identification
    • Additional Feature:Easy Peel sheets
    • Additional Feature:Not for color laser
    • Additional Feature:3-pack quantity
  3. Avery File Folder Labels Assorted 252 Count

    Avery File Folder Labels on 4" x 6" Sheets, Easy

    Best Color-Coding Option

    View Latest Price

    In case you need a versatile labeling solution for managing files at home, school, or the office, Avery File Folder Labels, Assorted, 252 Count offer an ideal option. Each sheet measures 4″ x 6″ and contains seven easy-peel labels sized 2/3″ x 3-7/16″. With 252 total labels in assorted colors, you can color-code files for quick identification. These labels feature permanent adhesive that sticks securely to smooth surfaces like paper, plastic, and glass without curling. You can handwrite on them or print using inkjet and personal laser printers. Avery’s templates help you customize labels for a professional, organized look.

    • Label Size:2/3″ x 3-7/16″
    • Adhesive Type:Permanent adhesive
    • Printer Compatibility:Laser and inkjet compatible (not color laser)
    • Quantity (Label Count):252 labels
    • Color/Appearance:Assorted colors with white base
    • Intended Use / Application:File management with color coding
    • Additional Feature:Color coding bars
    • Additional Feature:Assorted colors for files
    • Additional Feature:Ideal for occasional use
  4. Matte White Printable Labels for Inkjet & Laser Printers

    3 7/16" X 2/3" Matte White Printable Labels for Inkjet

    Best Large Quantity

    View Latest Price

    Designed for small businesses and anyone managing shipping projects, Matte White Printable Labels for Inkjet & Laser Printers deliver professional-quality results with ease. Measuring 3 7/16″ x 2/3″, these matte white labels come in packs of 3,000, compatible with both inkjet and laser printers. You can use the included Spartan Industrial R012 template across multiple platforms like Microsoft Word and Canva for perfect alignment. Their matte finish guarantees long-lasting, smudge-free prints that won’t yellow, while the durable adhesive sticks securely to paper, plastic, metal, and glass. Just print on heavyweight or label paper settings, and peel for easy application.

    • Label Size:3.4375″ x 0.67″ (approx. 2/3″ x 3-7/16″)
    • Adhesive Type:Durable permanent adhesive
    • Printer Compatibility:Inkjet and laser compatible
    • Quantity (Label Count):3,000 labels
    • Color/Appearance:Matte white
    • Intended Use / Application:Mailing, file folder, inventory, and organization
    • Additional Feature:3,000 labels total
    • Additional Feature:Multiple template formats
    • Additional Feature:Long-lasting matte finish
  5. Barkley Medical Filing Labels Brown 1×1.5 Inch

    Barkley Compatible Filing Medical Healthcare Labels – Brown 1 x

    Best Medical Use

    View Latest Price

    Provided that you manage medical records, Barkley Medical Filing Labels in brown are your go-to for easy chart identification. These 1 x 1.5-inch adhesive labels come 500 per roll, perfect for busy hospitals and clinics. Their strong adhesive sticks securely to folders, charts, and binders, handling daily use without peeling. The high-contrast white text on a brown background guarantees you’ll read them quickly, improving filing efficiency. Designed to fit Barkley compatible 2027 systems, they include a year indicator for accurate record keeping. Made in the USA, these labels guarantee consistent quality and durability for your medical filing needs.

    • Label Size:1″ x 1.5″ (different size)
    • Adhesive Type:Strong adhesive
    • Printer Compatibility:Not specified for printers (medical use)
    • Quantity (Label Count):500 labels
    • Color/Appearance:Brown with white text
    • Intended Use / Application:Medical chart filing and record keeping
    • Additional Feature:High-contrast white text
    • Additional Feature:Made in USA
    • Additional Feature:Year indicator labels
  6. Avery File Folder Labels White/Red (5201)

    Avery File Folder Labels on 4" x 6" Sheets, Easy

    Best Color-Coded Design

    View Latest Price

    In case you need quick, professional-looking labels with a splash of color, Avery File Folder Labels White/Red (5201) are a smart choice. These 2/3″ x 3-7/16″ labels come on 4″ x 6″ sheets, featuring an easy-peel design with a pop-up edge for fast application. The white surface with a dark red bar helps you color-code and spot files instantly. Made from FSC-certified paper with permanent adhesive, they stick securely to various surfaces. You can print or handwrite on them using laser or inkjet printers (avoid color laser). With 252 labels per pack, they’re perfect for home, office, or school organization.

    • Label Size:2/3″ x 3-7/16″
    • Adhesive Type:Permanent adhesive
    • Printer Compatibility:Laser and inkjet compatible (not color laser)
    • Quantity (Label Count):252 labels
    • Color/Appearance:White with dark red bar
    • Intended Use / Application:File folder labeling with color-coding for faster ID
    • Additional Feature:Pop Up Edge peel
    • Additional Feature:Dark red color strip
    • Additional Feature:FSC-certified paper blend

Factors to Consider When Choosing File Folder Labels

Upon choosing file folder labels, you’ll want to weigh the material type and how strong the adhesive needs to be. Make sure the labels are compatible with your printer and come in the right sizes for your folders. You could also find color coding helpful to keep everything organized at a glance.

Label Material Types

Choosing the right label material plays a crucial role in ensuring your file folder labels stay clear and intact. Should you want an economical option that’s easy to write on via hand, paper labels work well but can tear or yellow over time. Matte-coated paper offers a smoother, smudge-resistant surface that’s great for laser or inkjet printing and still easy to write on. For folders that face heavy handling or moisture, vinyl and polyester labels provide superior tear, water, chemical, and UV resistance, making them ideal for long-term use. In case you need temporary labels, removable materials peel off cleanly without residue. Plus, TrueBlock-style labels fully cover previous text or graphics, allowing you to reuse folders without confusion. Choose materials based on your folder use and durability needs.

Adhesive Strength Options

Consider how adhesive strength impacts your file folder labels’ performance to guarantee they stay put and look professional. In case your files get frequent handling, permanent adhesives are your best bet—they bond firmly to paper, cardboard, and envelopes without lifting or curling. For temporary labeling or reusing folders, removable adhesives let you peel and reposition labels cleanly without leaving residue. Whenever labeling plastic, glossy, or textured folders, choose high-tack adhesives designed for those tricky surfaces. In the event your storage environment is cold or unheated, specialty cold-temperature adhesives keep labels from peeling off. Always match the adhesive type to your folder’s surface and expected conditions—such as moisture or abrasion—to make certain lasting adhesion and maintain an organized, polished look.

Printer Compatibility

Adhesive strength plays a big role in how well your labels stick, but printing quality is just as vital for keeping your file folder labels looking sharp. To begin, check whether your printer is inkjet, monochrome laser, or color laser since some labels work better with specific types. Make sure the label sheet size and individual label dimensions fit your printer’s feed and printable area to avoid misalignment or clipping. Also, confirm the label material and finish—matte or glossy—match your printer’s ink or toner to prevent smudging or toner transfer. Choose labels designed for your printer’s feed mechanism, whether sheets or rolls, to reduce jams. Finally, always print a test page using correct settings to guarantee perfect alignment and print quality before printing the full batch.

Label Size Variations

While selecting file folder labels, you’ll want to match the label size to your folder’s tab style and the amount of information you need to display. Measure your folder’s tab area initially—narrow tabs are about 2/3″ high, while full-width tabs span several inches. Label widths around 3 7/16″ usually fit standard or L-shaped tabs, but check your system’s specs to avoid sizing issues. Also, consider how much text or coding you’ll include; bigger labels suit longer names, barcodes, or multiple lines without crowding. In case you use label templates or software, pick sizes that fit common sheet layouts like 7-per-sheet or 30-per-sheet to save time. For varied filing needs, keep both small and large labels handy to prioritize or organize effectively.

Color Coding Benefits

Color coding often speeds up how quickly you find the file you need via letting you scan for colors instead of reading every label. By assigning a limited palette—say, 4 to 8 distinct colors—you balance easy recognition with memorability, avoiding confusion from too many hues. Whenever you link colors to meaningful categories like department, priority, or year, you not only speed retrieval but reduce misfiling errors. Using high-contrast color bars on white labels improves text legibility, especially in crowded or fluorescent-lit settings. To keep your system effective, incorporate color coding into your filing policies with a clear legend and staff training. This way, you make certain everyone stays consistent, and your color-coded system remains reliable over time.

Customization Availability

While choosing file folder labels, you’ll want to make certain they offer customization options that fit your specific needs. Check whether the provider supplies templates in various formats like Word, PDF, Google Docs, or Canva to design labels quickly and guarantee perfect alignment with exact dimensions such as 2/3″ x 3-7/16″. See whether they support both pre-printed and blank writable surfaces, so you can mix printed text with handwriting for flexibility. Confirm whether design options include assorted colors, colored bars, or full-bleed printing to help with visual categorization. Also, look for downloadable layout templates or design tools matching your sheet size and label count to avoid waste. Finally, in case you handle many labels, variable-data or batch printing features can save you time.

Durability and Resistance

After selecting customizable options that suit your organizational style, you’ll want to focus on how well your file folder labels hold up over time. Choose labels with permanent adhesive designed to resist lifting and curling, so they stay firmly in place through frequent handling and filing. Opt for materials and finishes like matte, coated, or polymer blends that prevent smudging, fading, and yellowing, keeping your text clear. Make sure the labels work with your printer type—inkjet or laser—and can endure laser heat without warping. Should you reuse folders, pick TrueBlock-style opaque labels to cover old text completely. Also, consider your environment; in case labels face humidity or constant touch, select moisture- and abrasion-resistant options to maintain durability and legibility long term.

Quantity and Packaging

Choosing the right quantity and packaging for your file folder labels can save you time and money. Start by estimating your annual labeling needs—multiply the number of folders you manage by the average labels used per folder. This helps you pick a pack size that minimizes frequent reorders. Compare labels per sheet and total labels per pack to find the most cost-effective option that fits your storage space. Should you label a lot, bulk packs with thousands of labels work best. For occasional use or varied colors, smaller multi-pack sheets reduce waste. Also, consider packaging format—rolls, stacks, or pre-cut sheets—as it affects printer compatibility and ease of application. Look for resealable wrapping to keep labels clean and adhesive fresh over time.

TheHouseMag Staff
TheHouseMag Staff

TheHouseMag Staff is a team of home lovers and storytellers sharing tips, inspiration, and ideas to help make every house feel like a home.