The invention provides a method for fastening a polymeric label to a
glass, plastic or metal container or surface by means of a water based
adhesive composition by the following steps: (a) applying a layer of a
hydrophilic solid material to a polymeric label to form a hydrophilic
layer; (b) applying water or a water based adhesive to the hydrophilic
layer to form a fastenable polymeric label; (c) fastening the fastenable
polymeric label to a glass, plastic or metal container or surface; and
(d) allowing said the polymeric label to dry on the glass, plastic or
metal container or surface.