Has Post-it Notes Adhesive Formula Changed?

July 30, 2012 by Debra Lynn Dadd

Question from Annie

I've been using Post-It Notes for years and never had a problem with them. 

The other day I bought a new package and the notes had an odor for the first time. Did they change their adhesive?

Debra's Answer

I've been using Post-It Notes for years too and always appreciated that they were nontoxic and odor-free.

Yet, this past week I too purchased a new package and it had an odor for the first time.

So I called 3M Customer Service to ask about the adhesive.

They told me that they now use three different adhesives on their various Post-It products.

One is the original adhesive, which is what is used unless otherwise stated. I looked at the MSDS for Post-It Notes and it says only "adhesive" and that no health effects are expected from inhalation.  3M confirmed that Post-it products do not contain PFAS chemicals.

Then there is a stronger adhesive for the Super Sticky Notes. Again not toxic.