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The Best Sticky Notes

Last updated on February 27, 2023

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Sticky notes are a familiar tool, with their ubiquitous (often yellow) square shape. Also known as Post-it Notes or flags, these little pieces of paper come in a wide range of sizes, colors and shapes. Most have a low-tack adhesive on the back that allows them to be easily attached and removed from various surfaces. Whether you’re an office worker, a student or just someone who likes to stay organized, sticky notes are incredibly useful.

When shopping for sticky notes, there are several factors to consider in order to find the best product for your needs. Think about how you’ll be using them. Will you be writing on them or simply using them as reference points in a book or file folder?

Be sure to look for stickies that are strong enough to adhere firmly when you need it to, but won’t leave behind residue when removed. Also consider the size and shape of the note and whether that will work for your needs.

It can be worth it to buy sticky notes in bulk if you plan to use a large quantity over time. While individual pads of stickies may cost less per unit, buying larger packs will often save you money in the long run. And since sticky notes are so versatile, you’ll likely find a use for every last one.

There are many different kinds of sticky notes available on the market. Traditional yellow stickies are still the most common, but you can also get colored dots, small rectangular tabs and even glow-in-the-dark versions. Their popularity has led them to become a frequently used tool for all kinds of professionals, from teachers to scientists.

So, if you’re looking for a way to stay more organized and efficient, sticky notes just might be the answer. With their versatility and convenience, it’s no wonder that they’re indispensable today!

Our Picks For The Top Sticky Notes

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Product Overview
Our Take
 Top Pick

Vanpad Assorted Bright Colors Sticky Notes

Don't Waste Your Money Seal of Approval

Vanpad

Assorted Bright Colors Sticky Notes

These brightly colored 3-by-3-inch pads are capable of sticking to almost any smooth surface. You'll get eight pads of 82 sheets each in red, pink, orange, yellow, green, light blue, blue, purple for easy color-coding.

Overall Take

Full Rainbow of FunYou'll never be short of note paper if you invest in this assortment of stickies.

 Runner Up

Highland Square Shape Self-Adhesive Sticky Notes

Highland

Square Shape Self-Adhesive Sticky Notes

This 24-pack of Highland Sticky Notes is manufactured by 3M, the inventors of the original Post-It Note. With over 40 years of experience, the brand knows how to make sure these sticky notes will serve you well.

Overall Take

From a Trusted BrandFor the absolute best in adhesive notes, stick with the original brand.

 We Also Like

SIMONA Heart Shape Easy Peel Sticky Notes

SIMONA

Heart Shape Easy Peel Sticky Notes

These super-fun sticky notes from Simona are the perfect way to add flair to your messages. Make a note for someone special, or just send love out to the world. You get eight colorful packs with 75 stickies per pad.

Overall Take

Love What You PickPut a little love in your notes with these adorable heart-shaped stickies.

 Strong Contender

Winner Aura Recyclable Mini Size Sticky Notes

Winner Aura

Recyclable Mini Size Sticky Notes

This multi-pack of recyclable, brightly colored sticky notes makes organization a breeze. With eight 1.5-by-2-inch pads to choose from, you can easily organize all your notes, files and messages.

Overall Take

Every Hue You NeedKeep yourself organized with this assortment of small sticky notes.

What to Look For

  • Not all sticky notes are created equal. Look for the size and shape that best fit your needs.
  • Depending on brand and style, some sticky notes work better than others for different surfaces. It may be best to purchase a variety of types if they’ll be used for different tasks.
  • Sticky notes come in a number of colors, so consider how you will be using them before buying. Blue ink won’t show up as well against a blue sticky note, for example.
  • Don’t limit yourself to using sticky notes to leave messages for yourself or others; they also have artistic applications. Don’t be afraid to get creative!

More to Explore

Sticky notes were first developed by a team at the company 3M, who sell the product as “Post-it Notes.” In 1968, a 3M scientist, Dr. Spencer Silver, was attempting to create a new super-strong adhesive in his laboratory, but accidently made an easily removable and reusable adhesive that responded to pressure. It wasn’t until 1974 that one of his colleagues, Art Fry, figured out how to market it. Fry thought of the adhesive when his scrap-paper bookmarks fell out of the hymnal he used when he was singing in his church choir.

Several more years of research and development led to the introduction of the “Press n’ Peel” sticky note in 1977, which sold poorly. After rebranding and a reintroduction as reusable adhesive note paper, yellow Post-Its were rolled out nationwide in 1980 (the color was an accident; the lab next door only had that color scrap paper on hand). Free samples were given out in what was called “The Boise Blitz,” cementing the product’s popularity forever. Today, there are more than 25 different colors of Post-It Notes sold in more than 100 countries around the world.

More to explore