Everyone wants packaging that feels responsible. But "eco-friendly" means different things to different people, and the choices can be confusing. Here is a plain comparison of the four materials we offer, so you can choose one that fits your brand and tell your customers the truth about it.
The four materials at a glance
Kraft
Recycled board
SBS / C1S
Corrugated
| Material | Look and feel | Best for | Price per sleeve |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kraft | Natural brown, rustic | Soap, coffee, tea, artisan brands | Base price |
| Recycled board | Soft, slightly textured | Brands that want to show a recycled claim | +$0.03 |
| SBS / C1S | Bright white, smooth | Full-color photos, exact brand colors | +$0.05 |
| Corrugated | Thin, ridged, stiff | Heavier products, multipacks | +$0.08 |
Kraft: the natural choice
Kraft board is left unbleached, which is why it is brown. It is simple, it looks honest, and it is our base price. One dark ink prints very well on it.
The trade-off is color. Bright and pale colors look muted on kraft, and photos look warmer. If your brand is built on a bright color, kraft may not give you the effect you want.
Recycled board: when you want to say so
Recycled board is made from used paper fiber instead of new pulp. It is the clearest way to back up a claim like "made from recycled material", because it is true of the sleeve itself.
It costs a little more than kraft. It also suits brands that talk about reuse, such as refill and subscription products.
SBS / C1S: bright and precise
This is white board with a smooth coating on one side. It prints bright, sharp color and fine detail, so it is the usual choice for cosmetics, photos and brands with exact color rules.
It is recyclable like the others. It simply looks less natural, and it costs a little more than kraft.
Corrugated: for strength
Corrugated has a ridged layer inside, so it is stiffer and protects better. It suits box, handle and tray sleeves that carry heavier items or multipacks. It is not used for tight curved shapes such as cone or tube sleeves.
The finish matters too
The board is only part of the story. Some finishes make a sleeve harder to recycle. A laminated soft-touch layer and metal foil are the usual ones. Spot UV, embossing and plain printing have less of an effect.
How to talk about it honestly
- Say what is true: "made from recycled paper board" or "recyclable with paper".
- Avoid vague words like "green" or "planet-friendly" on their own.
- Check the rules where you sell. Some places have strict rules about environmental claims and recycling symbols.
- Tell customers how to recycle it, for example "Please recycle with paper".
If you need a certification for your market, ask us before you order. We will tell you what we can and cannot provide.