I've used one of those plastic-strip label makers for a few years now, and yeah they're pretty solid. Way better than tape, especially in damp spots under sinks or near water heaters. Mine have held up without fading or peeling even in the basement where humidity is always an issue.
One thing though—they can get pricey with replacement cartridges, and you end up tossing a lot of plastic bits if you're labeling tons of stuff. I switched to using a combo: plastic labels just for critical valves or shut-offs, and painter's tape or even grease pencil for temporary notes or reminders. Grease pencils actually work great on metal pipes or valves, and they're easy to wipe off if you need to change something later.
The phone photo idea is smart—I do something similar with electrical panels and plumbing layouts. Saved me multiple trips back home from the hardware store when I forgot measurements or part numbers...
Yeah, grease pencils are underrated—I use 'em a lot too. One thing I've tried lately is writing directly on pipes with permanent marker then covering it with clear packing tape. Holds up pretty well...anyone else done something similar or got a better trick?
"One thing I've tried lately is writing directly on pipes with permanent marker then covering it with clear packing tape. Holds up pretty well..."
That's a solid method—I've used something similar myself, especially in areas where moisture or dirt can quickly obscure labels. The clear tape trick definitely extends the lifespan of the markings. One thing I'd add is to make sure the pipe surface is clean and dry before applying the tape; otherwise, moisture trapped underneath can cause the ink to smudge or fade prematurely.
Another approach I've found effective, particularly for pipes that see a lot of handling or exposure, is using printed labels from a handheld label maker with laminated tape. They're surprisingly durable and resistant to fading, even in harsher environments. The downside, of course, is the initial cost and needing to carry around an extra tool. But for critical lines or valves that need clear identification long-term, it's worth considering.
Still, your method is great for quick jobs or temporary setups—simple, cost-effective, and gets the job done without fuss.
I've tried the marker and tape thing too, but after a couple months in my damp basement, it got pretty hard to read. Switched to those laminated labels mentioned above—bit pricier but they've held up way better so far. Worth it for peace of mind, imo.
"Switched to those laminated labels mentioned above—bit pricier but they've held up way better so far."
Good call on the laminated labels—definitely a step up from tape and marker. Another trick I've found handy is using color-coded zip ties or plastic tags. They're cheap, waterproof, and easy to spot even in dim lighting. You can keep a simple color chart taped to the basement wall (laminated, of course). Been using this method for years now, never had an issue with readability or moisture damage. Just another option to consider...
