How to Print Waterproof Menus on a Laser Printer

An eye-catching, detailed menu is essential for any restaurant. If you serve customers on an outdoor patio or bar, waterproofing your menus is important to keep them protected in any weather.

Fortunately, you can print your own menu on waterproof paper without any special equipment or processes — you just need a computer, a laser printer and waterproof paper. Check out our simple guide on how to print waterproof menus to get started.

Steps for Waterproof Menu Printing

It's easy to print your own menus on waterproof paper by using a laser printer, offset printer or flexo printer. The key is checking your printer's settings and adjusting them to run a synthetic paper. This kind of paper is necessary to create a waterproof menu without lamination — fully synthetic paper can be completely submerged in liquid without issue.

Once you've selected your paper, you can print waterproof menus on your own printer. Watch our video for a quick 15-second tutorial, or follow the simple steps below:

Load the paper in any tray. Fan out the sheets just prior to placing them in the tray to reduce static electricity.
Adjust your printer's settings to use a synthetic paper setting, if possible.
Program the formatting for your menu in the printer. For example, you may print double-sided and instruct your printer to do a fold — a pre-scored sheet can help achieve clean fold lines.
Hit the print button.
Grab the printed menus, and you're finished.

Choosing the Right Waterproof Paper

durable synthetic paper is the right waterproof paper

When printing waterproof menus, you don't want to choose any printer paper — it must be durable synthetic paper to provide the waterproofing, wear-resistant characteristics you need. This type of paper is specially treated or designed to hold up against elements like rain and ultraviolet light, preventing moisture damage and fading. Some types of durable paper also provide tear resistance, so they're perfect for busy eateries and cafes, especially when families stop by for a bite.

With longer-lasting menus, you won't have to reprint them as often. Simply wipe them down after each use, and they'll stay looking great. Some options are also FDA-compliant as a food contact substance.

Before you start printing, determine the size and thickness of your menu. Many restaurants print their menus in standard letter size, or 8.5 by 11 inches. If you want to go slightly bigger, consider standard legal size, which is 8.5 by 14 inches. It's also important to select a thickness. While your menu shouldn't be overly thin and flimsy, you also don't want it to be too thick and bulky for customers or your printer to handle.

Benefits of Printing In-House

By printing your own waterproof menus, you can enjoy the perks of printing as many — or as few — menus as you need. This option is especially convenient if you have a temporary menu that changes often and you only want to print a limited amount. When outsourcing your printing needs, you deal with more variables, such as extra costs and potential delays. There may also be order minimums that don't suit your business.

Whether you want to print larger runs of your standard menu or need to print limited versions, you can create durable, high-quality menus for your patrons.

Why Partner With RELYCO?

If you're searching for waterproof menu paper, we're your one-stop shop for high-quality, waterproof and tear-resistant durable paper. At RELYCO, we have over 35 years of experience creating specialized paper to meet the needs of clients across various industries, from advertising to construction to hospitality.

Choose from our wide selection of durable paper options, including REVLAR, TRIDURA and Rite in the Rain, which can be conveniently printed on laser printers. If you're unsure which kind of paper you need, our team is here to help. Get in touch with us, and we'll answer your questions and assist you through the process.

Shop Our Selection of REVLAR Waterproof Paper

REVLAR waterproof printer paper from RELYCO is the ideal choice for waterproof menu printing. With a variety of sizes, thicknesses and colors available, you can create the exact menu you need — all with a laser printer. Consider REVLAR Premium Synthetic Paper for a sleek, professional-looking menu, or REVLAR Premium Colors to add a fun spin to your menu. No matter your design goals, all REVLAR paper is waterproof, tear-proof, washable and fade-resistant.

Learn more about waterproof menus with our free guide! Browse our durable waterproof menu paper, and reach out with any questions.