How to Seal Envelopes Without Licking to Save Time and Energy

From save-the-dates to wedding invites, there's a lot of mail that's sent for your wedding. And if you've ever had to send bulk mail, there's no doubt you're wondering how to seal envelopes without licking. To answer the age-old question, "Is licking envelopes bad for you?" Spoiler alert: It isn't. Sure, it can be daunting, disgusting and make your mouth dry, and you don't want to run the risk of papercuts. We explore how to close envelopes without licking in ways that are much easier and don't require tasting that yucky glue, while also consulting a medical professional so you're clear on the safety of licking envelopes. And guess what? The Knot Invitations even offers some great sticker options to pair with our wide variety of invitation designs. also offers digital options or physical invites to suit your needs that you can filter by price, style and more. Let's dive into everything you need to know about how to close envelopes without licking.

In this article: Is It Safe to Lick Envelopes? | How to Seal Envelopes Without Licking | Where to Buy Envelope Moistener and Alternatives

Is It Safe to Lick Envelopes?

Can you get sick from licking envelopes? Despite what that infamous episode of Seinfeld may have taught you, no, it won't kill you. So, is it unhealthy to lick envelopes? The simple answer is no, it isn't. Charlie Hortenstine, a physician's assistant based out of Georgia, clarifies, "I would say that it is safe. The only things I would worry about would be an allergic reaction to the adhesive and paper cuts. I don't expect either of these to be likely. It's probably possible for bacteria to grow on the glue, but I would imagine that the risk for infection from that would be minuscule."

Is licking envelopes even still a thing? For everyday mail, absolutely. But when it comes to bulk mail, like wedding invites, an alternative might be preferable just because of the volume. (And here's some extra tips on how to mail wedding invitations.) If you're wondering how to seal an envelope without using saliva, Hortenstine adds, "As far as alternatives go, I'd recommend using something else to moisten the adhesive—like a sponge or cloth—and stickers to seal the envelope or a fancy wax seal."

There are no clear-cut reasons why you should never lick envelopes, because it depends on each individual and their comfort level. Sometimes, it's a sensory issue to lick multiple envelopes, and for others, it's a matter of not liking the taste. For some, it's a non-issue, and licking their envelopes for wedding invitations is a breeze.

How to Seal Envelopes Without Licking

Are you still supposed to lick envelopes? Some envelopes these days don't even have the adhesive, or they have a sticky strip instead that does the work for you. And if you want to know how to stick an envelope without licking, here are some handy alternative options that save your tongue the trouble of all those invites.

1. Envelope Moisteners

Here's one tool for how to moisten envelopes without licking them: an envelope moistener. You can find this at most office supply stores and in multiples per pack. But how to use an envelope moistener, you may ask? This requires nothing but water to activate it, or reactivate it once it dries out. Just use it across the liner of your envelope, and it works as an adhesive.

2. Postcard Invites

If you don't have an envelope then there's no sealings to worry about. Talk about a creative, but straightforward, solution. And if you're worried you won't be able to fit all the pertinent info onto your postcards then you can rely on adding information to your The Knot Wedding Website so guests are well-informed. (Of course, if you could also repurpose a wedding website into a digital wedding invitation if you didn't want any paper at all.)

3. Wax Seals

One of the best ways to close envelopes without licking? Wax seals. And they add a thoughtful and elegant touch. There are plenty of wax seal kits, or you can go homemade with an old box of crayons, a candle and your favorite stamp. This surprisingly low-effort method gives your invites that extra classy feel.

4. Glue Sticks

Another alternative to licking envelopes is a classic glue stick. These simple and handy adhesives are tried and trusted for a reason, and if you really want to get creative, you can even use glitter glue. Just be sure to place something heavy on your envelopes to seal them well with the glue.

5. Self-Sealing Envelopes

Even envelope brands are looking for ways on how to seal an envelope without licking it. Many envelopes now come with a self-sealing strip, where you simply peel the paper off and reveal a sticky side. Ensure that when shopping around for invitation envelopes, they have this option.

6. Stickers

A fun way to seal envelopes without licking is everyone's favorite: wedding stickers. Find stickers on-theme for your wedding day or color palette to fit the aesthetic, or you can even personalize each sticker for your guests, like their favorite flowers or animals.

7. Wet Sponge/Cloth

Consider this a DIY envelope licker. Use a wet sponge, cloth or even a Q-tip to dampen your envelopes so they seal. This is a frugal life hack that won't require you to go out and buy anything, and your wedding party can easily help you close your envelopes in an afternoon with this choice.

8. Labels

Looking for another easy way to seal envelopes without licking? You can put your address label on the back of the envelope to enclose it. That way, the front of your envelope is dedicated to the guests' name and address or any other design.

9. Decorative Tape

One of the best ways to seal envelopes without licking is with decorative tape or washi tape. Popular in scrapbooks, decorative tape makes a lovely seal while incorporating exciting designs. You can find them in multi-packs in various colors and styles to fit your wedding theme.

10. Belly Bands

A belly band or wrap won't necessarily close your envelope, but it's a wonderful accessory once it's sealed. You can pair this with any other method of enclosing the envelope, such as glue or a moistener, and a belly band gives the refined look you're looking for.

11. Wafer Seals

Kind of in the realm of stickers, wafer seals are just round adhesives that are clear or in colors like gold or white. One clever idea with these is to use an embosser with your envelope and place a clear wafer seal over it to secure it in a fashionable way.

12. Hot Glue

A dab of hot glue can also do the trick of keeping your invites shut. Just be careful not to use too much, or instead use a lower-heat setting so you don't burn through the envelope.

Where to Buy Envelope Moistener and Alternatives

Now that we've gone over how to close an envelope without licking, it's time to find the perfect ones to enclose your important mail. You'll also want to stick to your timeline of when to send wedding invitations, so be sure to check that these alternatives will arrive in time. (Pro Tip: Once you drop your invites in the mail, use The Knot RSVP tracking to keep track of responses as they roll in.)

• The Knot Invitations: Browse a variety of sticker designs to quickly and easily seal every envelope.
• Amazon: No need to be curious about how to avoid licking envelopes when Amazon has every type of seal and envelope moistener you could dream of. From stickers to labels to whole wax seal kits, this handy online shop has plenty of options that can be sent to you within a few days, if needed.
• Etsy: Support local and small artisans on Etsy, and you'll find one-of-a-kind envelope closing choices that bring both fashion and function. You can also order other stationery must-haves, like address stamps and custom embossers.
• Minted: If you don't feel like pouring and stamping wax yourself, Minted has pages upon pages of ready-made wax seals. Be sure to search their selection of belly bands, ribbons and labels to make your paper goods pop.
• Zazzle: Zazzle is another online retailer that makes it easy to close envelopes without licking. This store has a wide range of envelope seals, stickers and more, in a variety of chic styles, colors and designs.

Additional reporting by Hannah Nowack.