Choose the right label for the right temperature
When choosing labels for refrigerated samples, the first and most important consideration is to assess what temperatures your samples require. Cryolabels are designed to be attached to containers at temperatures as low as -269°C (-452.2°F) and can be used to store samples such as human and animal tissues, primary cells and cell lines. Deep-frozen labels are a suitable choice for samples stored at temperatures as low as –80°C, including protein, RNA, and DNA samples, as well as certain valuable reagent stocks. Note that some labels may also be exposed to extreme heat (i.e. autoclaving), so make sure the temperature range of the labels is appropriate for your experimental conditions.
Customize label options for your containers
There are many different shapes and sizes of containers and your label must fit correctly on each container so you don't forget your samples. Therefore, the application surface is a key factor in choosing the right label. Some labels are better suited for plastic or glass containers, while others are designed specifically for metal and can be labelled directly or identified with cryogenic labels.
Additionally, the size and shape of the container will determine whether your labels fit securely and have enough space to carry all the necessary information needed to identify each sample. Depending on the application, a variety of special labels are available. For example, cryopreserved straws used in in vitro fertilization (IVF) clinics should be dedicated to cryopreservation of eggs, sperm and embryos. If you plan to replace the labels on the containers (for example, when labeling freezer boxes or dishes), you may want to choose labels with removable adhesives (yes, there are removable cryogenic labels).
Finally, you should consider whether your samples need to be labeled, or relabeled after being refrigerated and covered with frost. Most cryogenic labels will not stick to cold and/or wet tubes and must be used at room temperature prior to cryogenic storage. For samples that have been stored at extremely low temperatures and cannot be thawed,
